Bicycling's popularity grows on West Side

By Elaundress Ballard and Christie Jok
BengalNews Reporters
   The Queen City is riding a phenomenon that is increasing with popularity while positively impacting the West Side: bicycling.
  Second only to motor vehicles, bicycles are one of the leading modes of transportation on the West Side, said Kim DeFlyer, the program director for On The Job Ministries.
  Bicycles are benefitting not only the West Side as a community, but also its residents and the environment. Henry Raess, community outreach coordinator for Green Options Buffalo, said bicycling is a positive form of transportation and exercise.

 Kim DeFlyer of On the Job Ministries talks about opening a bike rehab shop on Grant Street. Henry Raess of Green Options Buffalo talks about giving tips on bike safety on Colvin Avenue:


 “For the environmental reasons, there are no emissions,” Raess said. “It’s a healthy way to get around and burning calories keeps you fit. The cost is pretty obvious, you’re not paying for gas, you’re not paying for a lot of maintenance. If you do pay for repairs it’s very cheap or you can repair them yourself with simple tools.”
 Due to rising gas prices and the impact of motor vehicles on the environment, bicycles are becoming more popular on the West Side and across the country, Raess said.
 “You’re able to see your community more clearer because you’re slowed down. You get to see people on the street and it’s a lot more accessible to get around town,” Raess said.
  Not only can bicycles save you money, but also time, said Jonathan Petzoldt, a Buffalo State student and Green Options volunteer.
  “When I just hop on, I can go place to place and not really worry about the time it takes going place to place,” Petzoldt said.
  As bicycling increases on the West Side, there is an increase in demand for affordable bikes, parts and repair options, DeFlyer said.  Westside Wheels, a micro-company under On The Job Ministries, is a growing business meant to help bicyclers on the West Side purchase revamped and repaired bikes for manageable prices, DeFlyer said.
 “The average price for a bike at Westside Wheels is $40. Tuned up, tubes, everything replaced, ready to go,” DeFlyer said.
 Westside Wheels also offers children’s bikes for a reduced price, $10 to $15 with a free helmet included with purchase, DeFlyer said.
  Westside Wheels isn’t the only company taking part in the recycled bike business. Green Options Buffalo has programs too.  Green Options offers educational information about bikes and teaches people how to fix and maintain their bicycles, Raess said.  Green Options also promotes bicycle safety to children and adults, Raess said.  One program on the West Side sponsored by Green Options is called the Bike Rodeo. The program has an obstacle course and teaches kids how to maneuver on their bikes and practice proper bicycle etiquette on the road, Raess said.
  Children aren’t the only cyclers that need to be informed of safety regulations, here are five bicycle safety tips for riders of all ages on the West Side according to Raess:
 • Wear a helmet  • Get a bell or lights for your bike  • Use the proper hand signals for turning  • Be aware of your surroundings  • Inspect your bike for malfunctions before riding
 Edited by Anna Dinger