Austin has always had a flair for doing things its own way, so it’s no surprise that one of the country’s most charmingly scrappy bike‑advocacy efforts was born there. Back in 1997, long before bike‑share docks dotted city sidewalks, a group of volunteers rolled out a simple but radical idea: rescue abandoned bikes, fix them up, paint them bright yellow, and set them loose for anyone to ride. No fees, no locks, no fuss, just a community-powered invitation to choose two wheels over four. It was a grassroots bike share before “bike share” was even a phrase.

Nearly three decades later, the Yellow Bike Project (YBP) has grown into a thriving nonprofit collective with the same beating heart: empowering Austinites with affordable transportation, hands-on education, and the confidence that comes from knowing you can keep your own bike rolling. Their shop hums with volunteer energy, clinking tools, shared knowledge, and the unmistakable feeling that something good is being built.

Earn‑a‑Bike Program

For community members who need a bike but may not have the means to buy one, YBP’s Earn‑a‑Bike program offers a dignified, skill‑building path. Participants volunteer 18 hours within three months, helping with tasks like sorting parts, cleaning, or wrenching on bikes. When their hours are complete, they earn a refurbished bike and the know‑how to maintain it. It’s transportation, education, and empowerment wrapped into one very practical package.

Community Workshops

The workshop is the beating heart of Yellow Bike. During volunteer hours, folks refurbish bikes destined for donation or sale in the community shop. During open hours, anyone can bring in their own bike project and get guidance from experienced volunteers. YBP also hosts WTF (Women/Trans/Femme) workshop hours, creating a welcoming, identity‑affirming space led by WTF mechanics who help participants take their first confident steps into bike maintenance.

Paid Classes

For riders ready to level up, YBP offers affordable classes on advanced topics like derailleur tuning, hub and headset service, wheel truing, and even suspension work. It’s a rare chance to learn pro‑level skills without pro‑level prices.

Community Bike Store

The community shop sells refurbished bikes along with new and used parts at accessible prices. Every purchase helps fund YBP’s mission and keeps more bikes and riders moving.

In 2025 alone, Yellow Bike processed 2,623 bikes, refurbishing 1,595 for donation or sale. 750 bikes went directly to Austinites from diverse and underserved backgrounds. And thanks to their recycling efforts, 13.3 tons of steel, aluminum, and rubber were diverted from landfills.

Planet Bike is proud to support Yellow Bike Project through our 1% for the Planet advocacy giving. We can’t wait to see how they continue to brighten Austin—one yellow bike at a time.