Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions we receive here at Buffalo Blue Bicycle. Have a question that you don't see anwered here? Go to our feedback page and leave a note.
What is Buffalo Blue Bicycle?
Buffalo Blue Bicycle is an innovative bicycle sharing program in the City of Buffalo. All of our bicycles are recycled from old or unused bicycles collected locally through donations, leftovers from police auctions, or trash bins. Blue Bicycles are stationed at various hubs throughout the city during our active summer/fall season. Members may sign out a bicycle from any hub for up to two days to use for purposes of transportation, exercise, or enjoyment.
How do I become a member?
A season's pass to Buffalo Blue Bicycle is free with a $25 dollar donation, or members may complete 6 hours of volunteer time with our organization. This could mean recycling bicycles at one of our two weekly bicycle workshops (no experience required), completing administrative tasks, graphic/web design services, etc. Visit www.buffalobluebicycle.org or call Justin at 851-4052 to fill out an application form or for more information about our program.
Do I need to have experience working on bicycles to volunteer at a workshop?
No. We have a number of experienced bicycle mechanics to show you the ropes, and a number of inexperienced bicycle mechanics to learn along with you.
When and Where are the Bicycle Workshops?
All of our workshops are held at the old Precinct 17 on the corner of Colvin Ave. and Linden Ave. in North Buffalo. Workshop times are: Thursday evenings from 7:30pm-10:00pm, and Sunday afternoons from 1:00-3:00pm.
Do I need to sign-up for the workshops?
Nope, just stop in any time we're open.
How do I check-out a bicycle?
To check out a bicycle, visit www.buffalobluebicycle.org and log in to the member area. From this area you will have access to a list of active hubs and the bicycles (each numbered and with short description) that are currently located at each of those hubs. Select the bicycle you want from the hub closest to your location, and continue the prompts to complete the check out process. You will be given the four-digit combination to the lock, and the bicycle will no longer appear on the website for other members to use until you check it back in.
How do I check in a bicycle?
To check in a bicycle, visit the website above, and log in to member area. Upon logging in, a prompt will come up stating that you have a bicycle out. To log the bicycle back in, follow the prompts.
How often may I check out a bicycle?
Blue Bicycles may be checked out as often as you like, for up to two days. We do ask that members do not repeatedly check out the same bicycle, as bicycles are shared and constantly checking out one bicycle decreases the number and variety of bicycles available to other members.
What is a Buffalo Blue Bicycle hub and where are they located?
A Buffalo Blue Bicycle hub is a bicycle rack with signage indicating that it is a Blue Bicycle hub. These hubs are not manned by people all transactions are carried out by the member on our website before reaching the hub. A list of active Blue Bicycle Hubs can be found by logging in to the member area and clicking on Check Out a Bike. Active hubs are those that have bicycles available for check out.
Who do I contact if I have problems with any part of the lending process?
Contact Program Director Justin Booth. Phone: 851-4052; email: info@buffalobluebicycle.org.
Does Buffalo Blue Bicycle take donations?
Yes. We take bicycle donations no matter what condition the bicycle is in. If the bicycle is past the point of being recyclable, we strip it of useful parts and recycle the scrap metal and rubber to help sustain our program. To make a donation contact Justin Booth by phone at 851-4052, or by email at info@buffalobluebicycle.org.
Can I get a Buffalo Blue Bicycle hub in front of my office or business?
If you'd like a Buffalo Blue Bicycle hub at your workplace or business, all you need to do is provide a bicycle rack If you are interested in having a Buffalo Blue Bicycle location outside your building, all you have to do is provide a bicycle rack for us to use as a hub. If interested, contact Justin Booth at 851-4052 or jbooth@city-buffalo.org