About Us

About Urbane

Urbane Cyclist emblem, with Shreddy, our mascot, in the centre. Around him it says Urbane Cyclist, with our address, 280 College St, the words Worker's Co-op, and our phone number - 416-979-9733.

Urbane Cyclist is a worker co-operative that is dedicated to promoting the awesomeness of cycling for all and creating secure and positive employment for its staff and members.

History

Since March 29, 1997, Urbane has been Toronto’s home for diverse ridership and cycling empowerment. Commuters have always formed our core clientele and we take pride in our expert service, knowledge and product in: touring bikes, recumbents, adventure cycling, folding bikes, cargo bikes, mobility devices and trailers. If you’re walking, running, skateboarding, roller-blading, or taking public transit, you - along with us - are part of a larger alternative transportation movement that challenges the supremacy of cars and other fossil fueled vehicles.

Urbane’s membership cares deeply about lasting quality and durability. Instead of chasing trends, we bring in and manufacture products that work well and do not contribute to throwaway culture. Our repairs are always done with quality parts so that you can ride all day, all year, and in any conditions.

Worker-Ownership

Power to the People that Power Themselves!

Urbane Cyclist Co-op isn't just a regular neighbourhood bicycle shop; it's a worker-owned co-operative! In case you're not familiar, worker-owned cooperatives like ours are businesses owned and governed by their employees. This means decisions are made collectively, ensuring everyone has a voice and a stake in the success of the enterprise. It's a model that prioritizes equity, democracy, and solidarity, embodying a refreshing alternative to traditional hierarchical structures. Worker co-ops are a testament to the power of collective ownership and passion, and as a worker co-operative, we thrive under the stewardship of our members who are not only part-owners, but actively work on the day-to-day operations of the establishment. Working every day alongside dedicated full-time and part-time employees, these worker-owners form the backbone of our team.

Regular member meetings help us envision the "big picture" of our journey as a business — where we stand now and where we're headed together, along with allowing us to engage in collective decisionmaking on the regular processes involved in running a business! Through this lateral power structure, our decisions are not made in isolation, but instead through the collective wisdom and vision of those who breathe life into our store.

As a worker owned co-operative business, each worker member is part owner, and all major decisions are made in a democratic, collective, non-hierarchical process. Worker co-operatives support workers’ livelihoods, which is a very different approach from the corporate focus on the bottom line. Co-ops aim to serve the needs of a community with integrity and promote a vision towards social justice and genuine alternatives to corporate culture and values.

Diversity and inclusivity at Urbane is critical to our success in serving the community and ourselves. We are committed to providing a workplace that includes people of diverse backgrounds. We believe that this enhances the performance of our Co-op. Through our internal processes and participation in the Cycling Industry Pledge, we challenge ourselves to foster a supportive workplace culture inclusive of people regardless of their race, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, marital status, age, physical abilities, political affiliation, religious beliefs or any other non-merit fact, so that all employees feel included, equally valued and supported.

Each worker-owner injects their own unique blend of personality, interests, and joy into the mix, creating the distinctive flavor that defines our shop. This amalgamation of individuality not only enriches our environment but also fuels the consensus that shapes our direction and purpose. We strive to be not only the most knowledgeable and well-stocked shop, but also the most passionate, friendly, and driven team as well!