This is a bicycle workshop (self-serve, assisted), cafeteria, hostel/pension, and a kino and a few…read moreother aspects operate out of the same address.
For the bicycle workshop, this is probably the last 6-day a week (full time) bicycle workshop where you can bring your bike and do repairs yourself for the entire area of Berlin. Usually there are 2-3 experienced people managing the werkstatt, providing assistance and time permitting, doing the repair if you get really stuck. This is a place to donate and learn how to repair your primary mode of transportation besides walking: bicycle.
Extra features include staff only tools (you have to ask, staff will assist), a welder, a grinder, and some other things you are unlikely to have back where you have your room. They do NOT have some necessary tools but improvise, sometimes, so if you don't see it, ask.
The rate is now 3EUR per hour. Whether you work outside or inside the shop, you are expected to contribute from the time you park the bike and begin working, whether doing the repairs yourself or having staff help, it's the same rate.
There are some new parts available, and many used parts.
Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday are opening times.
Thursday children and teenagers have priority.
Wednesday is WOMEN ONLY. You cannot even ask questions or stop by as the whole space then is for WOMEN who have issues or just want to work exclusively alone.
You can meet some good people here and get some good help. Please be respectful and patient as the staff from April to October can be extremely busy; first come, first serve (with the previous priorities in mind).
Some staff know english, the rest are from DDR times when it was more common to learn Russian as a second language.