Paying a Fair Price for Bike Repair

A sign at a produce stand.

Take what you need. Pay what you can. Please be fair.
A statement like that could feed the world. Well, that message wouldn't solve all the world's hunger, I suppose, but it's an interesting approach to a farm stand full of produce. I helped myself to a bunch of kale and two onions, used the provided plastic bags, then put the veggies inside my panniers. I left a "fair" contribution in a metal collection box.

Later, I wondered about the "pay what you can" approach. In the world of excess veggies where rotting is the alternative to bringing in extra cash, it makes sense (think piles of zucchini that most folks are happy to give away). Applying this theory to bicycle business, could this practice work in a low overhead shop environment?

I like to work on my own bikes, but sometimes need a freewheel removed, brake cables tightened, or better yet, I would love to have a knowledgeable mechanic inspect a bike overhaul (I'm thinking of a current project). I'd gladly pay a fair price (35.00/hour is local rate, exorbitant in my opinion) for professional expertise.

It may be a dream, but a retired bike mechanic could service bikes from their garage (my grandfather did, as a self taught mechanic). Many people have the know how, tools, and ability to accept less payment*, but I suspect, if there are such mechanics in our area, they operate under the radar, so to speak, to avoid business license fees, etc.

Does anyone know of legitimate bicycle operations that practice the "pay what you can" business approach?

*There's got to be a worthwhile wrenching person that would accept a 20 dollar bill. It pays for a 12 pack of micro brew.

My Friend Champ

On blue sky days, living is easy. Riding a bike is easy. Getting outdoors is easy. Contrary to overcast, dreary weather, I set out on my bicycle, looking for things to do, places to visit, errands to run. When there's a string of gorgeous weather, especially in September, I wander. It's how I encountered my friend Champ, all by himself, looking like he needed some cheering up.

Ever since Champ was relocated (or he swam) during the 2011 lake flooding, his residence is now hidden from the vast majority of  cyclists on the bike path. If cars are lined up, waiting for the ferry, a tourist may snap his picture or investigate the sculpture. Otherwise, he's hidden behind a building and it's up to Burlingtonians who frequent the waterfront to give Champ attention.

Much like the Loch Ness monster in Scotland, there've been numerous sitings of a huge water creature lurking in the lake. With 400 foot depths, who knows what's living between Vermont and New York?

For now, I smile at the lovable land-locked green monster on the lawn, give him a pat, notice he could use a new coat of paint then set off on another exploration, this time looking across the water, hoping for a glimpse of the real Champ.

When a Biking Friend Happens to be a Great Cook

Stow the bikes and let's eat!

Who cares whether bikes are locked when returning from a ride?

Not in my friend's driveway, it seems. Because well, when food is on the agenda and time is short, let's not get picky.

Would you bother locking up when cheesecake and iced coffee are waiting? And not just any cheesecake, mind you, but an Italian cook's ricotta version accompanied with strong tasty espresso. In glass cups, Chilled with frozen coffee cubes. Really. Regular ice is so passé.

She's a creative genius, if you ask me.

Geesh, where are your priorities my conscience worries over my beloved Miyata. Outside. Unlocked. Out of my vision. It'll be okay. I think.

And yet, almost every ride with my friend ends this way. We are foodies, throwing practicality out the window. In it's place is a mouthwatering treat. As it should be.

Seeking Relief

Early September provided some very hot summer-like weather. I drank 20 oz. of water each way while pedaling to the office, took a shower, and sat, fan-side all day. It was with relief that returning home one particualr day, the sky was filled with gorgeous clouds. Hallelujah, shade! I am a cloud person, always observing the sky for changes, birds, and any sign of heat relief, so this simple swirling mass overhead signaled a weather front.

Recently, Canadian geese are flocking southward and solitary monarch butterflies float by on their annual journey. Cool, breezy fall like weather is upon us. It's my favorite time of year. With friends and blog acquaintances on or out to embark on European vacations, I'm yearning for a bike overnight.

One Big Crank

I fell in love with this huge artistic sculpture - and what bicyclist wouldn't - on a busy Burlington Street. There are other metal behemoths  too: a human-sized wing nut and three 8-foot high entwined nails (yes, the type carpenters' hammer into wood).

All outdoor art pieces are part of South End Art Hop, Burlington's South End celebration of artists' studios. Eat and drink your way down a mile long corridor of businesses. Get tickets to watch a recycled art fashion show (I've heard this one is freaky, creative, and fabulous), or meander for hours visiting numerous artists' studios and exhibits. It's often an eclectic mix - all part of the fun. My boys loved Barbie heads in a gumball machine; their headless torsos later displayed in an antique fortune teller machine.

Imagine the size of the bike?

I couldn't resist inspecting this beauty up close.

A freewheel in the cougar's thigh is only one bicycle part of many included in this spectacle. If you have a spare 5,000. this big cat could be yours!