Free wheels rolling

Sometimes the biggest success is found in the smallest detail. 

“Yesterday I rode all the way home without breaking my chain,” boasts Tyler Balfour, 14, with a smile. 

For his smooth ride the Waldport student can credit the Green Bikes program. Created by Seashore Family Literacy as way to promote good health and recreation, the program provides bicycles for anyone to ride, any time, to any destination — no questions asked. In addition, Green Bikes now offers free bicycle repair classes every Wednesday from 6 to 8pm. All ages and levels of bike expertise are welcome. 

Created in 2006, the Green Bike program proved an instant hit. The premise is simple:  Find a bike and use it for fun and transportation. When done, leave the bike in an accessible spot for the next rider. Adult and youth volunteers work together to restore and maintain over 100 community bicycles. 

Volunteers are spending the winter months fixing the “green fleet,” of over 100 donated bikes, and another 65 bikes that have yet to be painted or numbered.  About 50 bikes are currently “out and about” the county that will trickle back into the repair shop as people find them and bring them in.

“Citizen support in both Waldport and Yachats has been strong for the three years the program has been in existence,” notes Rick Hill, who, following the retirement of longtime volunteer John Mare’, now supervises the Green Bike program.  “Most of the bikes eventually find their way back to the barn.”

Teens and adults cruise around in a variety of shapes and speeds, all painted green to designate the loaner status. Every rider is provided a helmet. In addition to the green fleet, the program supports another 25 children’s bikes used by youngsters in the Center’s after-school, summer camp, and day care programs. 

“We are envisioning a kind of bike co-op here,” says Hill. “Once donated, the bikes all belong to the community.  If we can keep the bikes on the road, it gives people an alternative to driving, provides a great way to exercise, cuts down on carbon emissions, and keeps bikes out of the landfill. It is definitely a ‘green’ bike program.”

The Green Bike Repair Shop, located within the Waldport Community Learning Center, is led by adult volunteers who serve as role models emphasizing recreation, health and education. Volunteers with bicycle experience are encouraged to help others learn repair and maintenance skills. 

By offering classes, along with a long-term bike lending program, “we’re broadening our focus and increasing community involvement,” explains Hill.

Green Bikes is generously supported by the Yaquina Wheels Bike Club (president Jerry Kern is a Wednesday night instructor), Bike Newport, and the many people who donate bicycles. 

The program provides tangible job skills that offer a sense of pride and accomplishment. In addition, adult volunteers directly engage local youth to support a popular community program. 

“I like working on stuff,” says Balfour, who, under the tutelage of Hill, is learning to fix bicycle chains, wheels and gears.

"This program is great for our community, and great for our kids," notes Senitila McKinley, director of Seashore Family Literacy. "In fixing and rebuilding the bikes, they are learning tangible skills from adult role models." 

To volunteer, donate, or learn more, contact Rick Hill, Green Bike supervisor, at Seashore Family Literacy, 563-7323.