We’d heard a bit about West Seattle’s “Green Bikes” but hadn’t come across one for a WSB photo-op till Jason Grotelueschen photographed the one shown in our photos – then today, they got a citywide spotlight on Slog (read the story here; thanks to Max for the link). They’re donated and fixed-up bikes you can borrow (if you come across one); Guy Olson is leading the West Seattle Green Bikes effort and has a Facebook group for it here if you want to find out more.
I’d be worried about getting a no-helmet ticket after hopping on one of these, safety issues aside. These would be great for bus stops along the harbor/alki area if it weren’t for the hooliganism that goes on down there and the subsequent potential for theft.
Great idea! Maybe if they are free to borrow it would take away the “thrill” to steal it. I doubt it but maybe….still think it is a great idea.
The helmet issue is the only thing that might keep this from taking off. Barcelona’s program is spectacular (upwards of 6,000 bikes, I believe).
The helmet issue and the lack of lights issue are the only things that bug me.
Way to go Guy! The kids and I Saw one over the weekend!! Keep it up!
What a great idea! To solve the helmet issue, can we leave a helmet with the bikes? I have an extra helmet I can donate and I’m sure we can find others to donate. I know the sizes might be tricky, but having something might be better than nothing? Just an idea…
In my experiance, the helmet law seems to be overlooked my most officers. Maybe a passing “where’s your helmet?” comment, but that’s about it.
OK, I was wondering if it was just a freaky coincidence that I kept seeing the same bike at various places I was at through out the weeks?! Very cool.
Me, too, bsmomma. I initially thought it was a memorial set up to honor either a specific cyclist killed at that location, or to remind people to watch out for cyclists, in general. So glad to read about it being someone’s grassroots efforts instead.
FYI, the bike in the photo was at 46th & Hill (north Admiral) on an afternoon last week. Early the next morning, it was gone. (ridden away by a Green Bikes fan, presumably?)
Not only a helmet is needed but also the obligatory bicycle pants too ;)
There was a similar “yellow bike” program in Boise when I lived there about 12 years ago. It’s a great idea, but the bikes slowly started disappearing due to theft and abuse (even though they were essentially junk bikes). I hope this program succeeds, but the pessimist in me says you can’t change human nature.
Once upon a time, nmb, no one around here recycled. The idealist in me sees human nature changing and evolving all the time. Plenty of resistance, but the adherents to the old ways die off eventually.
I saw my first Seattle Green Bike parked outside Freshy’s today. My reaction? Shoot video, what else!
If you see one that needs service (flat, cable, lube, etc) bring it by the shop for a free repair. We want to see these stay on the road!
We just finished putting a new cable on a ladies 3 speed Green Bike. It has all 3 gears now!
Sorry, comment time is over.
| 21 COMMENTS