Thanks for the lively conversation on how to ride the line between serving our community and doing our part not to spread covid-19. This is an unprecedented situation from all angles, so it's nice to have this group of like-minded folks from all over looking at things from this one.
Here at Bikes for Humanity PDX we have postponed all classes, in-person programs, and open hours. We are doing bike adoptions on an appointment basis: (1) bikes are posted online for folks to browse, folks referred to us from partner organizations describe what they are looking for (2) a time is set 30 mins+ away from another appointment, and the adopter is asked if they'll need helmet, light, and/or lock. (3) We meet in the parking lot behind our space with a couple bike options, and any other items they might need. We feel this is a satisfactory means toward meeting the needs of people trying to access bikes as either a diversion or way to get to work, as well as our own needs of revenue and the fulfillment of our mission.
Does anyone have insight on how to maximize social distancing and minimize shared contact of surfaces? I am also interested from a mechanical perspective, what the effect of watered down bleach is on grips, saddles, bar wrap. Since we only have so much rubbing alcohol, and it won't be easier to acquire anytime soon, we are looking for a way to ensure contact points are sterilized going forward. Spray bleach-water on grips and wipe with rag designated as the touch-points sanitizing rag?
And since rubbing alcohol is now prioritized for non-bike purposes, what is another means of cleaning bearing systems, rims and disc rotors? I will be taking the crisis/opportunity ("crisitunity" in the phrasing of Homer Simpson) of having the doors closed to catch up refurbishment of the 100 bikes in our basement...
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-- Andrew Shaw-Kitch (pronouns: he/him/his)
Executive Director
Our mission is to increase access to safe and affordable bikes while empowering self-sufficiency in bike maintenance and commuting.