As of last year, over half a million bikes became ‘used bikes’ in Victoria, of which at least half ended up in landfills. Faced with that shocking insight, Brainwave Australia – a not-for-profit that provides support to children with neurological injuries and illnesses – decided to take a stand, and Brainwave Bikes was born in 2022. In a few short years, Brainwave Bikes has become Australia’s largest bicycle recycler. “Bicycles shouldn't be treated as waste, they represent opportunities for renewal and revitalisation” says Kieran McMahon, Brainwave Bikes’ manager. By selling quality bikes across Melbourne and donating bikes to low-income families, they’ve put the pedal to the metal to make a difference in the community, one bike at a time.

As a social enterprise, Brainwave makes efforts beyond just bikes, providing traineeships to people with disabilities as well. Applying an innovative approach to their trainee program, they empower hardworking and bright individuals who have faced previous challenges in employment. McMahon tells us proudly that “many of the trainees have gone onto gain mainstream paid employment in industries beyond the bike world, including car detailing, hospitality and retail”.  

The good work doesn’t stop there. With over 5,000 bikes collected since its inception, their experienced team not only recycle bikes but also provide second-hand parts, repair assistance and promote do-it-yourself repairs – with all profits going to Brainwave Australia.

1. All bicycles, whether collected or donated, start their journey at a Brainwave Bikes shop in Melbourne, where they are meticulously cleaned.

2. Next, they’re taken to the workshop, where professional mechanics conduct a comprehensive inspection. 

3. The bikes are then sorted. While most are perfect for restoration, those beyond repair are utilised for parts and the leftovers are responsibly recycled.  

4. Then, the chosen bikes are refurbished. Each goes through three separate checks before it is deemed fit for sale.  

5. The bicycles make their way out into the world for sale, ready for a new owner.  

Brainwave Bikes has recognised a growing demand for affordable bicycles. For those in the inner Melbourne city looking for a quality refurbished bike, you can find them within the ‘Purpose Precinct’ of the iconic Queen Victoria Market, an area dedicated to social enterprises. McMahon is there every Friday and Saturday.

They depend on their 4-wheeled Vito to get their 2-wheelers from A to B. McMahon shares, “With a network of over 30 drop-off points, our Vito serves as the backbone of our collection efforts.” His favourite feature? “The Active Parking Assist in the Mercedes-Benz Vito completely changed the game.” It helps the Vito manoeuvre into packed spots in the city, so the team at Brainwave Bikes can focus on getting bikes to more people.

While this not-for-profit has been around since 2022, Brainwave Australia has been supported by Mercedes-Benz since 2011. As a principal partner of the charity, we’ve had the pleasure of witnessing the journey of Brainwave Bikes since day one. Select Mercedes-Benz Retailers even serve as a drop-off point for unwanted bikes.  

Want to get involved? Here’s how you can support:  

Donate – simply donate or ‘Gift a bike’ to a low-income family.   

Volunteer – they’re always on the lookout for volunteers who bring their skills and experiences.  

Shop refurbished bikes – purchase a bike that helps make a difference.   

Much like their vans, Brainwave Bikes is going places. Expect more pop-up shops, retail outlets and drop-off points so that every bike gets a chance at a second life.  

Words by Teesta Chattoraj

Shot on location by Sansberry and FLAT PACK

With special thanks to Queen Victoria Market

Content commissioned by Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific Pty Ltd.