Bikes Delivered!

The “launch” is feeling like an ongoing process…. Summer is always such a whirlwind! And getting people on bikes in a place where it is not common takes time and attention. In June, we purchased our FIRST e-bike, adding it to a small fleet of one cargo bike (Surly Big Dummy) that went to a cohort member in Montpelier and an e-bike that was donated to us.

Michael has been logging some good miles to work on the Surly Big Dummy cargo bike and Lawuo started using the Specialized Vado SL to travel to her job in St Johnsbury right away.

The other e-bike went to a therapist in Hardwick who hopes to work up to a commute from Greensboro. When we met at the Co-op, I was approached by a big guy using a cane and he said to me, “I might be your greatest challenge.” I replied, “I like a good challenge!” Aaron hopes get back in shape and improve his health by using a bicycle for transportation. This is exactly the kind of person I want in the cohort.

I’ve had more than a few people drop out at this point for various reasons: life is too busy, they are fighting cancer, a new nursing job means 12-hour shifts. The goal is to make the program as low stress as possible, with some accountability. I am learning what this can look like. How can I inspire and help people make this commitment? What creative solutions can I offer them? How do you hold someone’s hand without pestering them?

Mostly the stars continue to align for the program to unfold, which keeps me hopeful. I raised just enough money to support our current cohort. People seem to think the program is a good concept. I am finding new potential partners that make the program seem important.

Next event is to host the Bike Commuting 101 class for the cohort. The public is welcome!