First: Working Bikes claims on thete web page there used bike prices are 1/2 the cost of bikes being sold on craigslist. This is false advertising to say the least. I visted there store today and found there used bikes that have been put together with miscellaneous parts to be starting out at over $200. II asked a person working there why there bikes where so expensive. He said "This is a charity the money we make goes to a good cause" I drove an hour to find a bike at the lower than craigslist prices. To find junk priced at Blow your hair back prices. Also, They do have a ton of miscellaneous parts. But again. Was quoted a rock bottom price of $20 for a rusty 26 in wheel. However, Your money will be put to good use helping poor folks in a far off country. At the expense of the working poor here in Chicago Stay away from these scam artists. read more

Damn good place to get a bike. The bikes honestly all look slighty banged up on their paint job, but they ride well, and you can get really good quality bikes of all kinds (hybrid, touring bikes, mountain bikes) here as well as come in for service later at a cheap price. I got a refurbished touring bike from here and it rides really really well. Most bike shops have to charge you a lot to make their margin, and have really high service costs. But since this is a non-for-profit, they don't have to make the same margins and that gets passed on to you! Note that this is a volunteer thing for most of the workers there, so the service is pretty slow, but meh, if you go in demanding special treatment from volunteers, you've got an attitude problem. Like this place, and am seriously thinking about volunteering so that I can get get a working knowledge of how to fix bikes. read more

Went to the storefront with a friend of mine to purchase two bicycles we had pictured in our heads. For me, the bicycle I had in college... a black three-speed Sears bicycle made in England. For her, a green Schwinn. We couldn't find them in the storefront, so the owner suggested we try the warehouse. The warehouse guy couldn't be nicer and he allowed us to comb through thousands of bicycles until we found exactly what we wanted. He put on new brakes, switched bike seats, and generally, rocked. My dream bike cost 40 bucks. God, I love that place. read more

I walked in not really knowing what to think of a place that recycles bikes and bike parts, but I walked out wanting to buy about 6 or 7 bikes. A friend told me that the bike they recondition sell for around $40-60, but I found that to be an understatement. For a good road bike prices were anywhere from $125-300 dollars. Still, not a bad deal if you want something to whip around the city and give back to mother nature. I met this nice blue road bike when I was in there and could not take my eyes off her. The tag... $125. The result, feeling like i needed to pass because I still have a good bike. I think they go through bikes fast and are always bringing out new floor bikes. I may have to stop periodically to see if I can find a steal... or at least that sweet little road bike with the BONTRAGER blue side wall tires... I'm going to take a cold shower now. read more

On my first stroll though this place the first thing I notice was that there was no heat. The volunteers are real troopers for surviving through the Chicago winter and despite the cold the staff was super friendly and helpful. The place is literally a smaller warehouse full of used bike parts and whole bikes. The parts are easily accessible and organized into bins and boxes or have their own sections of the space. If your building your own dream bike this is a great place to come for starters and advice (which is what I am currently undertaking). If your looking for a bike to leave riding with they might have what your looking for at a pretty descent price. Also each bike or frame has a hanging tag that gives you an honest rundown of any problems, perks and sizes (soooo helpful!) Don't expect new shiny bikes and rims and you won't be disappointed. The bikes are used. The parts are used. And this is done as charity and nonprofit, plain and simple. I pretty fond of what they are doing there and I think you will be too. read more

This is the first bike I have bought in years.. I wanted something simple and inexpensive to ride to work, and heard about this place through a friend. I got a vintage, well working, road bike for $140. A helmet for $15. They had a good selection of bikes but not for my height (5'2), but I still liked the one they had for me. They were really helpful, too. I went right when they opened and there were already people in line (about six people), but I didnt feel rushed to make a decision, probably because no one else was my height so they werent really looking at the bikes I scoped out. If you want a bike and are on a budget, I would suggest this place. read more

A fantastic group of people who fix used bikes and sell em cheap (from $40-100) to support bike transport! Get there right before they open at noon on one of the three days of the week, and test a bike out around the block, leaving your driver's license at the counter. Great prices on U Locks. It's just good to support an organization that donates fixed bikes to kids in Africa....and now that CTA prices are hiking January 20th, we all could use a working bike. read more

I forgot to read on the website to come early, but luckily pulled up around 11:50 to see a line that was steadily growing. I came in with a friend and we found great deals on used parts of every type. Much better than buying then off Ebay and far cheaper. As for the bike selection, they actually had some decent mountain bikes and lots of vintage road bikes, the latter being snapped up in seconds by people in tight pants and beards. The staff encouraged me to take one bike out for a spin, and although I had to pass on it, I appreciate that they actually have a customer service element. However, operating hours are strange here, and if I was unable to come early I'd be SOL. Also, do they have to play strange music selections? I just want bike parts, not someone's hipster Ipod list... read more

I suppose that this this place is pretty hit and miss judging from the other other review, but it was definitely a hit for me. After I first moved to Chicago, I was missing my bike. I had looked on craigslist and went to a bike shop, but I didn't feel like paying so much money for a bike. I went here and they had a bit of a limited selection, but I did find what would soon become my baby. I got a lightweight cannondale hybrid bike here for $100. The paint was kind of scuffed and it wasn't in perfect condition by any means, and I've spent extra money on some repairs and additions, but that probably would have happened with any bike. It's a good store, you can get a good deal...and you're supporting a pretty worthy endeavor. All of their proceeds go to send bikes to third-word countries where a bike can make a huge impact for a worker who would be walking other wise. This place is sweet, plus it's right off of western so you can take the bus here, no problem...and then you can bike home, like me. read more

The mission of this place earns it a bright place in the bike heaven in the sky. Also, if you can find a bike that fits you here, it'll be dirt cheap and totally worth it. Mostly I recommend volunteering. It's not enough to ride a bike, it's worth it to learn how to fix them. Only then will you be a true Jedi. read more

I was here to pick up two local bike donations last week, and we received fantastic service and fantastic bikes (bikes, helmets and locks for just $20 each!). The service was fantastic and the people working there went over the bikes just as carefully as if we were paying full price for them. Really, really awesome people here. read more

Working Bikes - Working field trip to working bikes. This place is great! - Bikes Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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I also came here at the end of fall after my bike got stolen. I was one of 4 customers, 6 at most, during my visits. My first visit, Phil, the volunteer was so patient, even taught me how to switch gears (I was used to a singlespeed). He pulled about 4 or 5 bikes and I didn't buy anything! Second visit, one of the mechanics pulled 2 or 3 bikes before I settled on buying an 60s hybrid. They have a one month warranty. I heard mysterious squeaking and brought it in before the month was up. Apparently, it was the vintage mattress saddle springs that were squeaking (like auto mechanics, you're really at their mercy. i did ride it for 2 more months before putting it away for winter so I guess it's fine!). If you're looking for used, you won't find it cheaper anywhere else. read more

I admire their cause, the shop folk are helpful, friendly, knowledgeable, and enjoy what they do. No line on a sunday at noon. Now, i'm a rather large person, and there were only 3 bikes my size and all over $250. Fine. I'm used to that. I Bought a Lavender Raleigh Technium. The thing that left a minus 1 star bad taste in my mouth was that i got a flat on my back tire, riding it home from Working Bikes. The repair ticket indicated that they received the bike in good shape and didn't do anything to it. The tube was very old and had multiple patches on it. Had to walk the last 2 miles to my house. read more

Great place to purchase a nice quality used bike. Service was a bit subpar. Went in at open and they seemed very scattered when I needed service on the $150 bike I just purchased. I paid to have front and back fenders installed on my bike I had just then purchased. They charged me too much for labor and the screws came off and inevitably the fenders Just over a month later. The brake line also tore half way through about 3 months after riding and the screw came unscrewed. Went 4 months with no front brakes and half hazard back brakes so I usually just used my feet to stop. I had to take it to another shop to have a tune up after 9 months. which was expected I suppose. Great bike - but not sure if I trust the maintenance services with the volunteer based labor. read more

Had the best experience at Working Bikes yesterday - what a special place this is. Diverse group of people all ages and backgrounds were there shopping, talking about bikes, and just hanging out - I could have stayed all day and learned about bikes! We walked in knowing nothing about bikes, but the manager James was super helpful in explaining the different kinds of bikes they offer, how to eyeball the right size bike for you, and making adjustments to the bikes I wanted to try out. It was a tough decision because there were so many great options, but we walked two late-1970s Schwinn road bikes for around $150 each. Besides the deals and the cool people who are here to help you, they also have an awesome mission that you can (in some small way) feel apart of by choosing to buy your bike here. There are a couple really cool things about WBC I want to mention that I'm not sure were covered in other reviews: 1) Test rides in the street outside their shop: they just hold your ID while you ride 2) 30 day guarantee: If anything isn't working right, bring your bike back and they will fix it, or if you aren't in love with the bike you picked out, you can even exchange it for another one. Thanks WBC, James, Grant and all the other nice guys who helped us out yesterday! read more

Awesome Place. Even though most of the people working there are volunteers, they still care about your experience and try to help you out as much as possible. There are plenty of bicycles to choose from. Most of them do look a bit banged up but they go through each bike and make sure they all ride well. As mentioned a million times, they do have the 30 day repair/exchange policy which is great. They sell accessories and do repairs on a bike you bring in as well. After reading the reviews I was expecting to get my dream (used) bike for $150 but upon arrival I realized that the bikes were a tad more expensive. I got a nice single speed Raleigh for $275. There were cheaper ones but they didn't fit me or they weren't the style bike I was looking for. From glancing around the price point for reasonable bikes were from about $100 - $500. (There were a sprinkle of bicycles that were over $1000.) THEY DO ACCEPT DEBIT/CREDIT! I got spooked after reading reviews and brought a wad of cash and saw the person in front of me swipe a card.. haha Overall I'm happy with my purchase and experience at working bikes. I definitely see myself frequenting for services or parts. read more

I don't have a great knowledge of bikes and when I went in with a question about my bent wheel and a replacement, I was basically ignored in favor of someone buying a bike. I spent some time looking for a replacement wheel in the used section before I left to return with my broken wheel to have better ease of picking out the right one (only had number size for the wheel which was apparently not enough. Again, not a lot of knowledge in my part that went unassisted) Returned with my bent wheel and tire for a more exact fit. A volunteer was very helpful in looking through the used section but we unfortunately came up empty handed. Then a guy that looked like a mechanic (?.. really I guess it could have been anybody) told me I could buy a wheel that was a different size and it would be ok. I was pretty hesitant, but he seemed certain that this would be ok. It wasn't. I am definitely dumb when it comes to bikes but this place basically ignored me and then took advantage of me, as far as I feel coming away from it. If you know what you're doing and don't need any help this place is probably great: affordable stuff and a lot of it. However, don't come here if you need assistance. read more

Every hipster I know loves this place, so I assumed I would not. However, the volunteers were friendly, bearded (cool!), and helpful. I walked out with a bitchin' 70s Raleigh Sprite ladies bike. This is okay, because I am in touch with my feminine side, and because it had a rack on it, WHAT? At $70, I felt like it was a pretty good deal, but where that warehouse is? Will definitely get there sooner than 11:50 next time someone steals my bike, as there was a hefty line of mofos who grabbed a lot of the newer bikes ahead of me. That's okay, fools, I didn't want those hipster-ass ten speed road bikes anyway -- I've got enough of a hunch-back as is. People did get a little nasty trying to jockey for bikes, so let's all remember that nearly making my girlfriend cry doesn't make you a better person just because you're buying a Working Bikes bike. Peace in the Middle East. (THEY DO TAKE CHECKS, BTW) read more

My Ladyfriend got her bike from Working Bikes. She asked me to go with her since I ride my bike a lot. I really liked it there, but I have heard some bad things about them from others, who just didn't understand what Working Bikes is all about. There are a few things that one might take in to consideration before going to working bikes. 1. The staff is made up of volunteers, so they don't have to kiss your ass if they don't want to. They are there because they love the organization (or for street cred) not to make you happy. Don't take it personally if you have to wait for someone to help you. 2. The bikes are donated or scavenged. You are not going to find the latest, fastest, Lance endorsed, bike made from the same materials as the space shuttle. You are going to find commuter bikes, that may not be pretty or fast, but that were put back together, with love. Working Bikes sends bikes to developing nations, where having a bike is a super big deal. If you are in need of a bike to get around on check them out right away. You will feel so much better having gotten a bike from a groovy non-profit that helps others, than from going to the god damn Sports Authority or other places to get a cheap bike. I mean really,who does that really help? Not anybody. read more

This place is a mixed bag. First, the storefront sells used bikes at decent prices, but it gets mobbed, and anything good is gone fast. the warehouse is the saving grace of this place, that is if you're a bike guru. It's got a ton of bikes and parts. No one will help you though, and you'll be lucky if they even notice you. Also, it's almost impossible to find (up the street from their storefront and above an auto mechanic shop). Once you've selected the heap you are interested in you bring it to the front where people are working/socializing and you still wont get noticed. You'll talk to them and when they're ready they will acknowledge you. I went and the toolish guy who seemed to be the main mechanic at the time up-charged me for a used tire because at the last minute he deemed that it "wasn't too used". I walked out, went to Performance and bought a brand new one for $2 more than what he wanted ($7). I got the feeling that the workers have a superiority complex or something. The good is that they promote bicycling abroad in African countries from what I know (dunno which ones though). I'd like to learn more about this. read more

Love this place!! Got my second bike here recently, (the first one ended in a tragic accident with the CTA...b@$&!@#). Bikes are used, but are in great condition and they complete repairs at the shop. I am always happy to support a good cause, so I love buying here and purchasing all my accessories also. Hours suck. Staff/Volunteers are very helpful and you get to try out the bike before purchasing. I got there on a Saturday at 2pm, my partner and I scored nice bikes, cheaper than $100 AND they were hers and hers...so cute!! However, I think i was lucky and suggest you get there early because the good ones leave quickly. read more

At the end of my proverbial tether, I went to Working Bikes to try and see if they had anything. I found a glorious red schwinn sprint that fit me perfectly, and the prices are perfect for the financially challenged. Don't expect it to be like a conventional bike shop. Make sure you arrive a few minutes before they open, because other people know about this organisation and will be waiting. The bikes go fast. They also sell helmets and other bicycle paraphernalia, and the shop is staffed by volunteers, all bike enthusiasts. So not only will you find a bike that works for you, you'll be supporting an organisation that provides bicycles to third world countries, where cheap transportation is much needed. It's a win-win situation. read more

This is the best bike shop in Chicago. We got there one hour before they had to close and they spent an extra hour after they closed to help attach a rack to our bike. Eric did such a great job, as did Keke. The guy who helped me pick out my bike I can't remember his name but he was incredible. Such a great cause and such a patient and passionate staff. I highly recommend this bike shop. read more

Last Spring, I bought a lovely new bike at Johnny Sprockets (see review; I'm still a fan).... but alas, it was stolen out of my closed garage (argh!!!!!) this September. Not wanting to spend tons of money, but really wanting a replacement, I hopped on over to Working Bikes. I was very happy with my experience there, as well as the bike that I took home. Since it was October, I basically had the pick of the place, and there were only a handful of others browsing. Nobody bothered me while looking around, and I was able to test ride whatever I wanted for however long on the side street, which was appreciated. In fact - my boyfriend mentioned something about how huge the Co-op had grown to be (he bought his bike there ~3 years ago), and one of the volunteers/workers took him on a tour of the whole place and loading dock while I test road. I ended up with a drop-handlebar Schwinn World road bike that I honestly prefer to my old, new bike. Spent more than the $100 or so that I was hoping for, but still much less than any other store, and well worth it. The guy at the register was super nice and chatty. Besides my experience and my glorious bike, my boyfriend learned on his little tour that their prices are set as is only because they donate tons of bikes to developing countries around the world.... Very impressed with this great cause! read more

I really think this is a cool place and give it 5 stars for meeting my needs in looking for a 'new' bike. That is, I wanted a used bike that has been refurbished. When looking for a place to buy a bike, I always get recommendations to go to the more high-end new places for buying a new bike. It's not really in my budget and I have had as much trouble with a new bike as I've had with refurbished bikes. I didn't want some glam fixie bike either, just a nice refurbished single speed bike and I found one here. A nice, well-kept old schwinn frame with some new aluminum rims and gatorskin tires on it. All for a reasonable price. If this were a few years ago, I'd go through the effort of finding a crappy old bike with a salvageable frame and just build it myself, but I don't have the time for that any more and with new parts, it would have cost the same as what I paid at Working Bikes Cooperative. The bike rides great, right down to the smoothness of the bearings in the hubs and the bottom bracket. The staff was helpful and willing to help you find a bike that suits your needs. It's probably not for everyone, but if you're like me and just want a rideable old bike of relatively good quality for a reasonable price (and you like non-profits), I'd definitely give this place a visit. (and they have a ton of old parts if you're looking to build your own, as well). read more

Seems like a cool place. Got great bikes for both kids. They were knowledgeable and there was no pressure to buy some overly priced road warrior for a 9 year old. They use volunteers and have a workshop in the back. read more

I got my bike from Working Bikes three years ago. Although, it really looks like it's taken a beating over the past couple of years and could probably fall apart at any time by now I absolutely love it. She's a real champ. I recently visited again to help a friend pick out a bike. The service was BEYOND compare. Not only did all the volunteers really like what they were doing, but they also answered every dumb question we had (and even the not-so-dumb ones). When we purchased a bike and got it into my friend's car we came to find out that the car had died. I went back into Working Bikes to ask if there were a car repair place around there. One of the guys (I don't remember his name. It may have been Rahul? Anyway, I think he might have been the boss man) came out to take a look at the car. He actually spent an hour trying to fix it. After that he drove us in his own truck down the street to the AutoZone to get the parts we needed. He drove us back and fixed the car completely. He went WAY beyond what I would have expected anybody to do for some strangers. The crew at Working Bikes is absolutely fantastic! I would 100% recommend going there. Not only is it a great cause, but the service is awesome! read more

Friendly people. When I went there were many road bikes to try out...found one I loved and purchased at a very affordable price. Love their mission. Will def be back. Sure, their hours are not great, but they are a coop. I am sure retail supply fluctuates, but it's great value. read more

They open their store at noon. Get here at 10.30a if you want your pick of the litter. Mine? Well she's a tiny whore that two others took round the block and then I had my turn. Sure it's a small one but it's mine. For sixty five bucks. Though, when asked for the dudes to raise the seat, they gave me the 'you can't be serious look' look. But hey, that's fine. Wee's alright with me. Helmet + Wee + Mystery Box = 86 bucks. Just line up early. read more

the website says to get there early so i figure quarter til, but htere had to be like 40 people already waiting, so maybe earlier next time, cause that shit was kind of scrappy once they started letting people in. I'm into aesthetics, i don't really know much about bikes, so i got a little worried. I was pretty much able to get what i was looking for and for only $40, my boy walked out with nothing. that's cause he's a calf tit - it's cut throat- don't wander around making sure you've seen everything first, claim something good enough and then coninue to shop around. read more

Keke was so amazing! She helped me find the perfect bike and was so nice! I left with an awesome used bike for a triathalon I am competing in, and can't believe they had a sale of $25 for 12 racing shirts! If I could give Working Bikes and Keke 10 stars I would, thank you again! read more

I got a really nice Trek mountain bike there for 60 $. They fixed the bike perfect (new breaks aso). I am really happy with it and I didn't have any problems until now (2 months) So whats better than get a good deal on a bike and help to raise money for good things?! read more

Presley and Al took care of business and are super friendly and very knowledgeable and I saved a ton of money verses any other bike shop in Chicago, highly recommend. read more

First off, same as everyone else, I finally went here because some ape stole my trek that I had zero problems with for a good 4000 miles over the 5 years I owned it. Typical Chicago experience to have a good lock on a bike and still have to deal with baboons and vultures feeding at the pond outside their own shit-hole areas they call the broken cage of a neighborhood where sub-humans beat each other with railroad ties or shoot each other coming in and out of so-called schools or getting off a bus all because "theyz had words." For years I heard this place was where one could expect to find a decent bike for cheap. I even dropped in once when they were on Taylor and Western and it did have that laid back flea market feel. I didn't need a bike then. Fast forward to Wednesday, the 27th of April, 2011... It's a Wednesday just like the website says is the best day to go (???), I think even that's a ploy for them to have one up on you, with you giving away the fact that you might walk in a bit more interested than any other day, so now they see you coming... On to the selection. Don't expect to buy ANYTHING roadworthy for under $250 dollars!!! Even then I saw bikes hanging on nails for 3 and 4 and 500 dollars with the chains dry, the tires brittle and looking like nobody's bothered to wipe off the dirt in months. As for the b.s about it being some above the fray mission to provide reuse, good-for-the-environment, not-for-profit friendly business, I didn't see a bit of difference in how they are in it to take your money like anybody else and the customers (all white and coming from more than a walking distance- which is fine, but don't tout diversity when it's simply not the case, unless by diverse you count all the usual stinky messenger-looking types and their barely female counterparts with that Jeanine Garafolo mug and matching pock mark up all night drinking so cool to live in pilsen face). The sales guy was exactly that, nothing more than a guy clinging to you, pushing an over-priced bike trying to distract you from the ridiculous bike with more b.s about how much more they're actually worth. it's a warehouse full of junk and the neighborhood and all the trucks and garbage outside are hardly a place to test ride your bike. Disclaimer: I grew up in that sewer of a neighborhood, lived there for thirty of my 38 years in this shit, corrupt broke ass town, and I guess i am still surprised to find the lies people sell to convince anybody and themselves that something is being done honestly and differently when, in fact, it's the same old bullshit. There's better deals around, do the legwork, find a good place to have it fixed if you buy it needing some repairs. Roscoe Village bikes is run by a cool couple with a no nonsense, honest business ethic. Unlike these junk dealers. read more

I got my bicycle here and I LOVE HIM. His name is Damien and I've had him for over a year. He's my baby, cost me next to nothing (I've been told my frame is worth more than what I paid for the whole bike), and has been super reliable. Minus one star for trying to push vintage/hipster/chick bikes on me until I finally picked out my own monster. read more

Working Bikes is amazing. I've always enjoy using their services even when I have to drive a bit out of my way. Staff have always been good to chat with. Estimates on time for repair are always spot on sometimes I just wait outside for it to be done. I got my first road bike from Working Bikes and I was having a hard time figuring out shifting and staff were really helpful. I highly recommend shopping here or donating! read more

High Five! Nice volunteers. Good pricing for maintenance and parts. Huzzah! http://workingbikes.org read more

The staff here is patient, kind and super knowledgeable. I popped in on a recommendation from a friend looking for a new front wheel on a pretty tight budget . They have a huge selection of used bike parts, and I found exactly what I was looking for, they even installed it for me and adjusted my brakes while they were at it, all for a 1/4 of the price I would have paid at any other bike shop. I live nearby, but it was such a pleasant experience that I would recommend it to anyone because it's worth the trip. The people here seem super passionate about bikes and their cause, this place is fantastic!! read more

The staff here is very knowledgeable and friendly, and I'll never get over how affordable all the services are. I've been to many bike shops before but this one is by far the best. read more

I've been to this place twice now and I'm definitely converted. There's a much closer bike shop to my home I used to go to but everyone here is so much nicer, more open and informative about what's going on with the bike as they're fixing it, and the prices are fantastic. A great neighborhood bike place read more