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Frequently asked questions

You can find the FAQ about just bikes here -- how to use bicycle gears, types of frames, and more. Have more questions? Drop us a line at info@bikecityrecyclery.org



















































How did Bike City start?

Before it was "Bike City," the project began on the front porch of a house on S Government St. in June 2006. Three truckloads of bikes were delivered to the front yard, and volunteers worked through the night to build bikes to supply a Critical Mass ride. The momentum from that first night prompted the creation of a program that would continue to recycle bicycles for community use. In October of that year, the project moved into its current commercial space. With no loans or start-up capital, just wages and donations, Bike City is able to remain a fluid organization that meets the current needs of the community.
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How is Bike City funded?

We are funded 100% by grassroots donations from people like you. All proceeds from sales of bicycles, used parts, and new parts, accessories, tools, and maintenance supplies maintain and expand our programs.
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How do I get there?

Click here for a map. From the corner of West Ave. and Dickson St., travel south on West until you reach Center St. Turn right and continue until you see the bike path crossing. Turn right into the Trailside Cafe parking lot (you may also park a car in the Walton Arts Center parking lot, or park on Meadow St.). If you go under the railroad tracks, you've gone too far.
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Will you fix my bike for me?

We will not fix your bike for you, but we will service it with you. You cannot drop off your bike for repairs, but if you have a few hours to learn, we're happy to teach. Click here for more information. For a full service repair shop, please call Highroller Cyclery or Fayetteville Bicycle Company.
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Can I trade in my old bike?

Our policy is no trades, donations only. This assures that we will never deal in stolen property (imagine if your stolen bike was traded to Bike City -- everybody loses but the thief).
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Do you buy bikes?

No. All bikes at Bike City are donated by the community. We appreciate all your donations!
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Can I buy a bike as-is?

No, sorry. Our policy is to never redistribute a bike that's unsafe or unreliable. When a bike is donated, it is designated for a specific program. If you buy a bike as-is at a garage sale, thrift store, or from a friend, we encourage you to bring it to Community Tools or Women's Open Shop.
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What is worktrade?

If you lack income to purchase a bicycle or necessary item, you may trade your labor for parts or a bike. Jobs are assigned by the mechanic on duty, for a rate of $5/hour.
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Who made that chair?

Andrea McCann, one of Bike City's founders and volunteer mechanics, made the "wheel" chair. It took roughly 40 hours of spare time and imagination. Sit in it, it rocks.
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Can I pick a bike and have you fix it up?

We don't do custom bike builds, sorry. You're welcome to join the Adopt-a-Bike mailing list and be notified as soon as a volunteer finishes a bike.
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Will you hold a bike for me?

There's a lot of people waiting for Bike City bikes. Bikes are sold first-come, first-serve. You're welcome to join the Adopt-a-Bike mailing list and be notified as soon as a volunteer finishes a bike.
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What are all the bikes out back?

Machines-in-waiting! They are overflow donations that are used for worktrades, earn-a-bikes, and Freewheel Kids. It is not a salvage yard -- if you have some spare time, please help us strip, sort, and build donated bikes.
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Can I buy a bike/part from out back?

Sorry, the bikes out back are designated for specific programs. It is not a salvage yard. Parts become available for sale after volunteers have stripped and sorted them.
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Can I convert my bike to a fixed gear at Bike City?

You're welcome to use the Community Tool room during open hours!
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Do you have classes or workshops?

Every day is for learning! We are always happy to host workshops, even though we do not have regularly scheduled classes.
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Can I store my bike at Bike City?

Our storage space is extremely limited. If you can't finish your project before closing, you may either take it home with you or pay $10/day for storage.
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How much do used parts cost?

Most used parts are $2-$5. Nicer or rarer parts are priced individually.
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Do you take credit cards?

We accept cash or check. But you can donate online using PayPal or Google Checkout.
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