Resources

Bike Buddy

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 you with 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, the Bicycle Alliance assigns someone to you and that person contacts you to set up a time and place to meet. Most mentors are willing to come 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.

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

Bike Buddy

Contact: Kent Peterson
Website: bicyclealliance.org/commute/bikebuddy.html

Bicycle Alliance of Washington

311 3rd Avenue South
Seattle, WA 98104
206-224-9252
Contact: Dave Janis
Website: bicyclealliance.org