Our Cycle Kitchen is a community-driven DIY workshop space in Meadowbank where people can share their knowledge about cycle maintenance, repair, and building. We talk about cycles rather than bicycles or bikes, just for that little extra emphasis to let you know we love all types of human powered wheeled machines. Want to work on your wheelchair or unicycle, come say hello!
What do I need?
Yourself and your cycle! We provide tools, spare parts, and expertise to help members fix and maintain their cycles. ETL’s cycle kitchens are run by passionate volunteers and aim to promote cycling as a sustainable and accessible means of transportation. Our mission is to empower every individual, regardless of their chosen mode of transport. The Cycle Kitchen is more than a workshop; it’s a place where you can learn, grow, and connect with others.
Who is it for?
Our Cycle Kitchen is for everyone, whether you’re an everyday commuter, a weekend adventurer, or just someone looking to try something new. We believe in transport equity – that everyone should have access to affordable, reliable transportation.
By joining us, you’re not just learning a new skill, you’re contributing to a more sustainable and equitable world. Come in, roll up your sleeves, and be part of this positive action!
Why do this?
Our aim is to foster independence and self-reliance, while promoting the universal benefits of cycling: it’s healthy, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective. We offer hands-on experience in maintaining and repairing a variety of cycles, from bikes to trikes, wheelchairs to unicycles. We believe access to a space where you can actively maintain your own items fosters pride and encourages more use. A cycle you appreciate and can trust is one you’ll use more often.
Upcoming Workshops and Classes
Officially open!
Follow us on social media and Eventbrite to keep up with developing activities
Located at our Meadowbank Hub
Details about all our locations and how to get there are always up-to-date on the Find Us page.
Wednesdays from 15:00-21:00
2 hour session bookings available via our Eventbrite
Assisted Group Workshops
We are running weekly group workshops where members can reserve a workstation (work-stand + tool-kit) and get assistance from our qualified volunteers. Everything from asking for repair advice, discussing benefits and drawbacks of a purchase, to short primers on cycle maintenance can be expected. We will have some generic small parts available for purchase (brake cables & housing, shifter cables & housing, chains, brake pads, general purpose lubricants, nuts & bolts). Eventually we may even have parts bins to dig through!
Maintenance Courses
On the first Wednesday of every month, we run classes focused on specific aspects of general cycle maintenance. Examples to date include drive train maintenance (cleaning of chains and other components, setting gears correctly for smooth shifting), repairing punctures and replacing inner tubes, and using tubeless tyres.
Independent Wrenching
In addition to our assisted group workshops, the space for working on your own bike is available to members whenever our doors are open with the understanding that nobody will be available to assist with diagnosing or fixing issues. Think of this as a self-serve cycle maintenance workspace.
Want to get involved?
We’re always looking for motivated and reliable volunteers at any skill level. Everything from keeping the space open and answering simple questions like “What is the tool library about?” when someone walks in, to professional level cycle mechanics interested in sharing their know-how with the community.
Our Funding
We have received a small grant for tools, and equipment via the Sustrans Love Your Neighbourhood Fund. We were also part of the Community Active Travel Support Service from Sustrans offering planning assistance, training, and strategy support that got us confidently started on this path.
We have also been awarded another small grant Funded by Scottish Building Society, administered by Foundation Scotland for the establishment of the Cycle Kitchen.
Our Friends
As we build this community we are leaning on the expertise and help from other community members and organisations. These are a few that have made a big difference so far.
