Bicycle
Why ride a bike?
A bicycle can be a low-cost, healthy and flexible way to get around. In 2006, over 1,000 people in Tompkins County traveled to work by bicycle. [From the US Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2006.] Others use bicycling for errands, ride with their kids, or bicycle to stay healthy.
While hilly terrain and cold or wet weather can make bicycling challenging, there may be ways to expand your bicycling. For example, you can ride your bicycle to a bus stop, then load it on the bus for longest part of the trip, or to go uphill. See the TCAT webpage for details on how to load a bike on the bus.
Or, if you want a bicycle that’s easier to start, get up hills and ride further, consider adding an electric motor to your bicycle, or buying a ready-made electric bicycle.
Tips on Getting A Bicycle
1) Ask around: people you know may have or know of an unused bicycle that might fit your needs!
2) You may want to try Ithaca’s Craig’s List, subscribe to Ithaca Freecycle or visit Finger Lakes Reuse at the Triphammer Mall for a used bicycle. You might even try asking Bicycling Organization members [link to clubs & orgs page] if they know of any bicycles looking for a home.
3) There are often over 100 bicycles at the Police Auction in the summer. For more information, call 607-272-9973.
4) RIBs is a unique program of the Southside Community Center in Ithaca, NY that seeks to empower people through mechanical skills and access to quality bikes regardless of identity or socioeconomic status. Used bicycles are donated by the community and refurbished by RIBs volunteers. Volunteers and program participants can earn a bicycle with volunteer time. Ithaca youth and adults alike can volunteer at RIBs to learn the ins and outs of bicycle repair, and earn credit hours. Credit hours can be exchanged for bicycles, bicycle parts, or time in the stand (repair your own bike).
5) Local bicycle shops offer a wide range of bicycles and can help you find one that’s right for you.
