3916 Locust Walk
(Penn campus btwn. Walnut and Locust Sts. near 40th St.),
215/386-0316
HOURS: Sun., Tues., and Thurs. 6:30–9 p.m.
Neighborhood Bike Works is a bike co-op known locally as “the bike church.” Located in the basement of the rear building of St. Mary’s Church, visiting is literally and figuratively an underground experience.
The gritty warehouse offers used and salvaged bike parts at a minimal price—normally ranging from just $1–10—and there is no service charge since you do the work yourself.
The veteran volunteer bike mechanics that facilitate repairs are generally friendly, but often busy and understaffed. If you stick it out and have patience, they are always willing to help.
They can even assist you in building a custom bike from scratch. Tools and some parts are provided.