What began in 2008 as a visionary concept to bolster local cycling infrastructure is now preparing for its 17th iteration. S&W Sports and the Central N.H. Bicycling Coalition (CNHBC) are proud to announce the return of their annual Bike Swap on Saturday, May 16 and Sunday, May 17.

Held at S&W Sports at 296 S. Main Street, this cornerstone event has raised more than $130,000 for regional cycling projects since its inception. Originally conceived by Tim Farmer and Nick Coates, the founders of CNHBC, the swap was designed to generate sustainable funding for the greater Concord area. After Farmer gained hands-on experience at a similar event in Vermont, he launched the first-of-its-kind swap in New Hampshire eighteen years ago. Despite a brief hiatus in 2020, the partnership has turned a simple idea into a massive collaborative effort between local business and the community.

Over nearly two decades, the proceeds from the swap have been funneled directly into transformative local projects. Key initiatives funded by the event include:

  • Purchasing stencils for the City of Concord to establish “sharrow” lanes.
  • Providing grants for cycling organizations across the state.
  • Financial support for the Merrimack River Greenway Trail, the Concord to Sunapee Rail Trail, and the Northern Rail Trail.
  • Safety programming, including youth and adult safety events.
  • Launching bicycling programs within several local schools by providing bikes and helmets for physical education.

“On behalf of S&W Sports and the CNHBC, we want to thank the community for helping make this happen,” said the organizers. “Without your support, this would just be an idea. We look forward to keeping this event going for many years to come.”

Area residents are encouraged to participate in this year’s swap to find quality gear and contribute to the continued expansion of New Hampshire’s cycling network. Consignment drop-offs will take place the week of the event. For specific drop-off times and sale hours, please contact S&W Sports or visit the CNHBC website.

About S&W Sports: S&W Sports is a premier outdoor retailer in Concord, NH, specializing in bicycles, skis, and snowboards, dedicated to providing expert service and high-quality gear to the New England community.

About Central N.H. Bicycling Coalition: The CNHBC is a non-profit organization focused on improving the safety and accessibility of bicycling in the greater Concord region through advocacy, education, and infrastructure development.