In short

Op Wielekes aims to make cycling possible, feasible, and affordable for more children. We do this by offering quality second-hand children’s bicycles, parts, and accessories through a subscription model. Rather than creating one large organisation (scale-up), we focus on building a scalable and transferable model (scale-out) for cities and municipalities across Belgium.

Need and relevance

Many children’s bicycles remain unused, while new ones continue to be produced. This is unsustainable and creates financial barriers for families. Op Wielekes provides a solution through a circular sharing system: bicycles and parts are repaired, reused, and shared. By optimising bike use, we reduce waste, conserve resources, and make cycling more affordable for families.

From approach to impact

This project explores how the Op Wielekes model can be scaled and transferred (scale-out) across Belgium. Through qualitative and quantitative research, we map the needs and challenges of families, depot managers, and potential partners. The Demo depot serves as both a practical and inspiring example for future depots. This will result in a sustainable network of shared depots where recovered and repaired bicycles gain a second life and are optimally used by children. In doing so, we promote a circular cycling culture and reduce the environmental impact of new bicycle production.

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