Bright Idea: Start a bike-loan program in your building

by Teri Karush Rogers | 2/24/10 - 11:45 AM

If you’re like us and your bike use doesn’t really justify your two-wheeler’s cost, upkeep, or monthly storage fee, then maybe it’s time to start an in-house bike-loan program .

One Upper West Side co-op recently did just that, says its managing agent, Kevin Mitchell of Douglas Elliman Property Management.

Here’s how it works at 262 Central Park West: 

Residents contribute underused bikes, including road bikes (thin tires), mountain bikes (straight handlebars/thicker tires), and childrens’ bikes

The building pays a local bike shop to clean them up, and the building staff looks after them on a regular basis

Residents and accompanying friends can borrow bikes anytime so long as they sign a release form held by the doorman

Helmets aren’t included and bikes can’t be checked out all day or overnight

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