SwapPoster2013

It’s a Wheel Steal!

by Meghan O’Neal

It’s springtime in Bozeman, which means Bozemanites everywhere are putting away the ski gear and dusting off the old bikes—or if you aren’t lucky enough to possess wheels of your own, wishing you had an old bike to dust off. If you’re looking to trade in your old bike for something fancier, or if you want a new, inexpensive ride,now is the time to make those dreams come true.
 
Bike Swap
The annual Gallatin Valley Bike Club Bike Swap is happening this Saturday, April 20, at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds. Drop off your used gear on Friday between 4-7pm; there is a $1.00 consignment fee per item, and 15% of the sale goes to the Gallatin Valley Bike Club, a local non-profit which works to provide activities for cyclists around Bozeman. An appraiser will be available to help price your gear. Sale hours on Saturday are 8-9am for volunteers and Gallatin Valley Bike Club members only, 9-11:45am for the public, and 12-1pm for the discount sale period. Whether you want to purchase a bike at a ridiculously low price, or need to get rid of old gear, the bike swap is an event you don’t want to miss. Contact [email protected] for more information.
Want an inexpensive bike while supporting a local cause? The Bozeman Bike Kitchen devotes itself to providing simple transportation to all members of the Bozeman community. Bozeman hosts a thriving bike culture, and the Bike Kitchen believes that everyone in Bozeman deserves a bike. The organization fixes old bikes and gives them away to those who need them. Donations, old bikes and parts, and volunteers are always welcome. Bike Kitchen volunteers work for free bikes and parts, depending on how many hours they put in. Some bikes are also available for sale. The Bozeman Bike Kitchen is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6-8pm, and they can be reached at 852-2096.
If neither one of these deals work for you, there is always the trusty thrift store. Bozeman has a plethora of these bargain meccas scattered around town, and you’re sure to find a steal of a deal for your new-used wheels. Second Wind Sports provides gently used sporting goods at reasonable prices. Pawn Depot/Nu2u also provides good finds. It may take some digging, but when you find a deal here, you’ll feel like you’re stealing. Their selection changes daily, so if you don’t find what you need today, be sure to check back later!
Whether you’re a poor college student or a strong member of the community who wishes to give a little of your time, Bozeman offers a variety of awesome bike deals and donations. Join the barrage of Bozeman bikers and steal some wheel deals today!