Lefty Tune-Up: 2026 Updates

Calling all followers, we are thrilled to share some Lefty updates. It’s been a quieter 12 months since our last major event, but the work is always spinning forward. The Lefty Cycles Project, Inc. (TLCP) team is collaborating this fall to provide bicycles for Norwich High School students while increasing our inventory of adult bicycles to distribute to those who may benefit from a new set of wheels.

The goal is simple. By the end of 2027, we plan to surpass our 500^th bicycle donated since this all started (officially) in 2020. By June of last year, we were just around 450. The recipients have been community members across eastern, CT, those who happened to be part of a wide range of our events. Adults, kids, students, people in recovery, family members, friends, delivery drivers… the list is interesting. People across CT have donated bicycles, time, funds, words of encouragement, critical feedback, and endless support.

The mission is rooted in Dylan Howley’s story of recovery and response to adversity by connecting bicycles and community members. The impact of Lefty Cycles is growing with the support of current and new partnerships to help expand this young nonprofit. A majority of the bikes that have been donated to the organization, were picked up, tuned up, and then redistributed solely by Howley. 

Through a microgrant with CT Department of Transportation, Lefty Cycles is planning to donate 15-20 bicycles to students who attend NFA, in partnership with their cycling team. This is the second time working with NFA Cycling team and we are extremely proud to be able to complete another project with this funding. Check our Instagram & Facebook for more information on how to donate a bike, inquire about a bicycle, and/or follow our journey to 500 bicycles (redistributed among the Lefty Cycles community and beyond).

A specific part of our success over the past few years is thanks to James, a member of our volunteer team who worked closely with Dylan, specifically repairing bikes and representing our mission. James will always be a part of our success and his dedication to helping others is what Lefty Cycles strives to represent. A few photos and remarks from our 2024 Newsletter are added below in honor of James and his incredible spirit.