Sharing the Secrets of Bicycle Commuting

After meeting with my mentor, I rode twice. It was scary at first, but I did it. And it felt great. I was so proud of myself. Thanks for helping lay the groundwork for me to be a bike commuter! - Bike Buddy rider Read more Comments from Bike Buddy Riders

Experienced recreational cyclists who wanted to know the best route to their office...

Folks new to riding in traffic who wanted to learn all the ins and outs of bicycle commuting...and

People who had tried commuting but weren't sure how to ride in the rain, in the dark or in traffic all were served, between 2001 and 2004, by the Bicycle Alliance's Bike Buddy Program.

Unfortunately, the program ran out of funding at the end of 2004 and there was no Bike Buddy program in 2005. The good news is that funding has been restored for 2006 and the program will have a grand relaunch at the 2006 Seattle Bike Expo.

How does Bike Buddy work?

The Bike Buddy program is simple – it matches you with a trained volunteer familiar with the commute between your neighborhood and workplace. Buddies are available to help in as many of the following areas as needed:

• Selecting a comfortable route
• Riding safely in traffic
• Fixing a flat tire
• Choosing gear for commuting
• Taking your bike on the bus
• Renting a bike locker
• Other tips and techniques

Once you sign up for a Bike Buddy (via phone- 206 224-9252, e-mail or registration form), The Bicycle Alliance assigns someone to you and that person contacts you to set up a mutually convenient time and place to meet. Most mentors are willing to come out to your home or meet over coffee to review equipment and map out a route. They are also willing to do a test ride with you to make sure you're comfortable with the selected route.

Your mentor can help you determine if your bike is "commute-ready" before taking it out on the road.

The Advantages of Bike Commuting

Bike commuting lets you:

• Ignore traffic reports
• Fit a workout into your busy day
• Feel energized when you arrive at work
• Get more control over your schedule
• Avoid parking hassles & costs
• Help improve the region's air quality
• Be part of a growing trend in King County

It's worth the effort!

Why bother with a Bike Buddy?

If you're new to bicycle commuting, you'll get all of the support you need to get started. Your mentor can help you determine if your bike is "commute-ready" before taking it out on the road. Once you start riding, you'll also get a "new rider" packet with commuter items and discount coupons. On the other hand, if you're a more experienced rider, you'll get help only in the areas you specify.

In all cases, you will receive personalized, one-on-one attention from someone who has commuted by bike for years!

Find out more: read Comments from Bike Buddy Riders

Interested in having a Bike Buddy presentation at your office or organization?

Experienced cyclists are available to conduct lunchtime sessions on bicycle commuting for interested colleagues. At the end of the session, participants can sign up to be individually matched with a Bike Buddy.

To schedule such a presentation, contact The Bicycle Alliance at (206) 224-9252.

Riders who want to learn basic repairs can get hands-on instruction.

Ready to Sign up?

• Fill out the Bike Buddy Registration Form
• Send us E-mail
• Call (206) 224-9252

In Spokane? There is a separate website for Spokane Bike Buddy Program, coordinated by the Spokane Bicycle Club and the Bicycle Alliance of Washington.

Sponsors of the Bike Buddy Program

The Bicycle Alliance is a statewide, 2,000 plus member advocacy organization that promotes bicycling for transportation and recreation.

Metro assists bicycle commuters by linking bicycle and bus transportation, providing bicycle lockers at Metro park-and-ride lots, and planning new programs that encourage bicycle commuting. Find out more about Metro's Bicycle Programs.