Bicycle Friendly Business

RCommunity Bikes | Bronze Level

Business Highlights: RCommunity Bikes is a grassroots organization that collects and repairs used bicycles for distribution, free of charge, to Rochester’s most needy children and adults to help meet the basic transportation needs of those in the community who use bikes for recreation and commuting. A majority of individuals were refugees from a variety of countries, including Myanmar, Somalia, Iraq, and Cuba. They teamed with Bikes for the World and their affiliate in Ithaca to send a tractor trailer of bikes, parts and supplies to Uganda. Their process for giving bikes to children ensures that the bike fits the child appropriately and the parent is well-educated on the importance of wearing a helmet. RCommunity Bikes provides a venue for the Rochester bicycling community to conduct education programs relative to bicycle safety and maintenance. Other educational programs include apprenticeships, one on one training and an "Earn a bike" program for participants to learn repair and maintenance skills and then receive a bike. Employees and volunteers receive free or low priced bike parts with access to a bike repair station, maintenance tools, covered, secure parking and a knowledgeable maintenance person.

Most Compelling Bike Related Statistic: In 2009, 1366 bicycles were given away: 489 bikes given to children and teens and 877 bikes given to adults. Helmets were provided to all children who were in need of them. Bikes were given to individuals representing more than 67 agencies and a wide variety of zip codes, illustrating the value RCommunity provides for Rochester. They have 181 volunteer mechanics who have volunteered 7,849 hours to make this possible. Their number of employees listed on this page is based on the number of active volunteers.