In this hands-on, movement-based class, students will learn how to repair, ride, and understand bicycles—using them as both a practical tool and a way to explore the city of Holyoke. Whether you already have a bike or need one set up, this course will support you in getting rolling and staying rolling.
Students will begin by working on their own bikes or rebuilding one from our shop: identifying issues, taking components apart, making repairs, and putting everything back together so they understand how it all works. From there, the class will move into riding—developing skills, building confidence, and heading out together to ride through the city.
Along the way, students will learn the mechanics behind cycling, including how gears and gear ratios work, how shifting affects movement, and how forces like friction and leverage help control speed and stopping. Students will also explore how body position and movement translate energy into motion—literally turning breakfast into forward momentum.
Grounded in Problem Solving, Self-Care and Wellness Strategies, and Understanding Self as Learner, students will:
Diagnose and repair mechanical issues, breaking problems into manageable steps and communicating solutions clearly.
Develop awareness of physical movement, stamina, and personal well-being through regular riding and reflection on habits that support health.
Build confidence as learners by recognizing different ways of learning—through hands-on work, movement, observation, and practice.
Stay curious and engaged, using trial, error, and persistence to improve both mechanical and riding skills over time.
Students will work toward attainments such as identifying and addressing challenges, applying step-by-step processes to real-world problems, reflecting on personal habits and growth, and developing a deeper understanding of themselves as active, capable learners.
Bring a bike if you have one—we’ll get it into tip top shape. If not, we’ll build one together for you to keep.
Cell Phone Policy:
No cell phone use for the entire class period.