In 2006, thanks to private funding, The Crucible gave several students who had previously learned basic bike mechanic skills the opportunity to design and fabricate their own unique bicycle. The small group debuted their remarkable rides at the 2007 Fall Open House to wild applause and amazement, as well as requests for more advanced bike classes.

Now, by popular demand, any youth 12 or over who wants to get down with torch and grinder to customize their own bicycle can enroll in a new workshop: Youth Frame Alteration – Art Bike. Students learn basic fabrication skills in MIG welding, Oxyacetylene torch, grinding and finishing, along with general and specific safety training necessary to reconstruct their bicycles. They will strip their bicycle frames and learn to redesign and alter handlebars, rims, seat posts, and frames to create a unique, hip, one-of-a-kind look that will make them the talk of the neighborhood. Students are required to bring their own bicycle to transform.

Over the last few years, The Crucible’s Bike Program has become the organization’s most popular community outreach program. “The Bike Frame Alteration class is the next progression for youth who have moved beyond beginning bike mechanic skills towards intermediate skills,” says Kristy Alfieri, Crucible’s youth and community program manager. “We’re so pleased to now be able to offer these advanced bike classes to a wider group of youth.”

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