GEAR UP: The Science of Bikes

September 27, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Grand Junction Lions Club Traveling Exhibit Hall | Museum of the West | 462 Ute Avenue, Grand Junction, CO 81501

GEAR UP: The Science of Bikes is a combination of interactive stations and displays encouraging exploration and discovery centered around the history, design and engineering of the bicycle.

Take a Ride Through the Science of Bicycling!

Since its invention more than a century ago, the bicycle has shaped how people live, work, and play. From schoolyards and mountain trails to bustling city streets, bikes are part of our everyday lives. But have you ever stopped to wonder how they really work?

At GEAR UP: The Science of Bikes, you’ll discover the science, history, and culture of one of the world’s most popular inventions. Explore a fascinating collection of historic and unusual bicycles — from a Victorian Penny Farthing to a flashy lowrider — and test your skills at hands-on stations where you can:

At GEAR UP, discover that a bike can ride on square wheels if the road is the right shape!
  • Generate electricity by pedaling a crank
  • See how brakes and materials affect friction
  • Race aerodynamic shapes through fluid
  • Explore momentum, energy, and design in action
  • Even ride on square wheels (if the road is right!)

This family-friendly traveling exhibition is packed with interactive fun for all ages.

At GEAR UP, hit the brakes on a spinning wheel, using three different pads to see how materials affect friction.

Exhibition Dates & Location

September 27, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Museum of the West, Grand Junction Lions Club Traveling Exhibit Hall | 462 Ute Avenue, Grand Junction, CO 81501

Admission

GEAR UP: The Science of Bikes requires an additional ticket beyond Museum of the West general admission:

  • Adult (16–59): $14
  • College Student: $13
  • Senior (60+): $13
  • Military/Veteran: $13
  • Child (3–15): $12

Or choose the Experience Pass for one-week entry to all three Museums of Western Colorado sites plus the traveling exhibition:

  • Adult: $24
  • Senior/Student/Military: $21
  • Child: $18

🎟 Members of the Museums of Western Colorado receive free admission to GEAR UP with their membership.

At GEAR UP, play a series of tubes made with different materials to discover why bikes can be made from so many alloys.

Members-Only Preview Night

Be the first to explore GEAR UP at an exclusive members-only preview night on Friday, September 26 at 5:30 PM at Museum of the West. Not yet a member? Join today to unlock early access and year-round benefits.

become a museum member

GEAR UP: The Science of Bikes was developed by Carnegie Science Center (Pittsburgh, Pa.) and produced in partnership with the Sciencenter.