For many, at least in these parts, it is a toy. A weekend pastime, either in the foothills, or on the Greenbelt, or on that Sunday morning "club ride."
But from a worldwide view, it is transportation. Globally, I imagine more people will get where they need to go today on foot than by any other means. But I bet bicycle runs a close second.
Bikes also provide transportation for a growing number of local folks. Kids not old enough or rich enough to drive everywhere. Adults who can't afford to own and operate a car... or who choose a bicycle rather than a motor vehicle. (It boggles the mind, doesn't it? That people would voluntarily ride a bike instead of driving a car? Weirdos!)
Although bikes are way less expensive than cars, a decent new bike will still set you back $300 or more. And that can be daunting to a person who's struggling to keep roof over head, or food in belly. Which is where the Boise Bicycle Project comes into the picture.
The BBP is an amazingly-well-devised concept.
VOLUNTEER mechanics go over
donated bicycles, giving them the neccesary attention to make them functional and safe. If a bike can't be renovated, the parts are pirated for use on other bikes. The renovated bikes are given away to folks who need one, but can't afford one. Bikes and bike parts are also available for sale to the public. Any proceeds go back into the "project."What reward do the volunteers get?
They get the spiritual/emotional reward that always comes with giving to a good cause. But in addition, they get training / mentoring to become better bike mechanics. And they get shop space and use of tools for their own projects.
I know that my friend Clancy is involved in the BBP, and I hope he will provide his 2 cents' worth.
Visit the BBP Website for info on how to get involved. (Volunteers are always needed and welcomed. And of course donated bikes and foldin' money also keep those wheels greased.)
4 comments:
Yes I will comment. The BBP has been a great place to volunteer. My wife thinks I am doing good while and I get to play with bikes. I usually volunteer on Wed. nights and either help others or fix/build bikes for resale.
I have purchased both bikes and parts at fair prices at the BBP. I have also donated bikes and parts. Here is my latest donation- a desk for the new shop manager, delivered by bike of course. http://post.ly/TQrd
This is an awesome cause. I love to see bikes find new homes.
And going back a couple threads... There's a guy who builds bakfiets out of old bikes. http://tomscargobikes.com/IMAGES.php
While I'd have reservations about loading the wheels and bearings with all the extra weight, if care was taken in construction, something like this might be super useful (And more reasonably priced) for the gal wondering about hauling her kids. Does anyone over there do welding?
Scott- There is no welder available at BBP nor do I think any of the shop techs weld.
We send out our welding projects to our metallurgic friend Jay Throne.
He makes bicycles and does our repair work for us.
go to the boisebicycleproject.org website and see "friends" -Throne bikes.
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