Helping people get back up on two wheels

After acquiring his dream sports car— Bryce Rapp took a look at his life and decided he was finished living life accumulating possessions and wealth. He and his wife decided to give away their money, literally throw open the doors of his self-described suburban “McMansion” and freely distribute their belongings to anyone in need. No questions asked. He compared his complicated and extravagant life of five years ago to the simple life he lives now, “you wouldn’t believe the difference,” he remarked.

Charting his family’s course, Bryce depended solely on his faith and will to serve other people in need. Inspired by an initial donation of a handful of bikes to a homeless shelter, Bryce quickly realized he would now spend his time serving others through bikes. The family of seven moved from their pricey mansion into a rented farmhouse just outside Oberlin on SR 511. I found Bryce after being curious about a hand-made sign in front of the house that reads “Free bike tuneUps while U wait.” I wondered why someone would want  tune up stranger’s bikes for free. Turns out, Bryce wants any needy person (whether needy because of a lack of financial resources or by unfortunate mechanical breakdown while in the area) to have a means to get them back up on two wheels.

After calling Bryce to get the story I made arrangements to come out and see his operation. His story is actually very simple. He doesn’t ask for anything. He just wants anyone who cannot afford a bike to have one. So he collects bikes and pieces of bikes that are either donated or thrown into the trash, fixes them up and gives them away. He trusts that people will not use him as a way to circumvent the costs of a bike shop. In fact, he stresses that his purpose is not to be a bike shop or take business from shop owners.

Bryce’s bike operation can be found just off the Back Roads and Beaches route about a half-mile west of Pyle Rd on SR 511. He is very friendly and welcoming to those who are curious about his mission and his infectious enthusiasm is quite inspiring. He and his wife are also triathletes and enjoy cycling. Traveling cyclists can stop by, borrow some tools or fill a water bottle. I’m sure, as I did, you’ll leave with a smile on your face.

Links to other coverage of Bryce’s Bike Point Ministries:
Bike Point Ministries helping others one bike at a time
Man’s bike stolen twice in less than a year