In January 2014, the Portland Gear Hub began humbly in the basement of a YMCA. It was born from the vision of individuals from two youth-focused nonprofits in southern Maine - Camp Ketcha and the Community Bicycle Center - with the vision of using a second-hand outdoor gear shop to support their youth programs.

Since those early days, the Portland Gear Hub has grown into an important community resource, providing equitable access to outdoor gear and experiences. They leverage the bicycle as a tool to help individuals build confidence, connect with nature, stay healthy, and strengthen the community. Let’s take a look at the programming they offer.

Bikes for All Mainers

Originally launched in partnership with the Bicycle Coalition of Maine, the Bikes for all Mainers program provides adults – many of whom are immigrants or new to the community – with refurbished bicycles as an affordable means of transportation. In addition to a bike, graduates of the free program receive a helmet, lock, and safety lights. They also gain the skills and confidence to maintain their bikes and ride safely, fostering independence and connection within the community.

Kids Bike Party
Portland Gear Hub hosts three one-day Kids Bike Party events annually, offering children in the community the chance to "earn-a-bike." Designed for kids who might not otherwise afford one, the program guides participants through stations where they learn bike safety, get fitted for a bike and helmet, and even take their newly earned bike for a test ride.

Community Classes
The Gear Hub offers a range of educational programs designed to equip participants with the skills and confidence to maintain their bicycles. These opportunities span from single 2-hour sessions to comprehensive 4-week classes. The "Bike CPR" program teaches essential roadside repair skills. "Be a Bike Mechanic" focuses on mechanical techniques like adjusting brakes, bearings, and replacing key components. Finally, "Be Your Own Bike Mechanic" provides in-depth knowledge of bike maintenance, empowering participants to tackle nearly any common repair.

Open Bench Time
The Gear Hub offers over 600 hours of Open Bench Time annually, welcoming everyone - regardless of experience - to tune up or repair their bicycles. Community members gain access to a full range of tools, with staff and volunteers on hand to assist, answer questions, and create a supportive, inclusive learning environment.

Though small, the Gear Hub’s team of year-round staff and volunteers makes a significant impact on the Portland community. In 2024, they secured a permanent home, enabling them to expand their programs and further transform lives by providing affordable transportation and outdoor opportunities. Planet Bike is proud to support their mission through our annual 1% for the Planet advocacy giving.