FREE CYCLES MISSOULA
January 1997

Big Sky Bikes Proposal

Introduction

As we approach the twenty-first century, we are faced with the demands of a growing population and a shrinking natural resource base. In striving to meet these demands, we must make those decisions that can take us toward a more sustainable future. The community of Missoula can take on a leadership role in this progression. Free Cycles Missoula, a non-profit organization, strives to raise awareness of many of these ongoing challenges, by involving the entire community in a variety of innovative cycling programs.

Big Sky High School Program

Free Cycles Missoula proposes to provide 30 bicycles to Big Sky High School for the use of students, faculty and staff. Since this would be a new and different project, this proposal will simply outline the various options and our recommendations.

WHAT: 30 bicycles given to Big Sky High School.

WHY: Cycling is the most efficient energy use for transportation- this will enable short field trips to the river, or elsewhere, to be done in a timely, efficient, fun, and aerobic way. Other reasons: opportunities to save $ and prevent pollution. This would be a great example for the students.

WHERE: The bikes would come from Free Cycle's stock of community bicycles located at the Fairgrounds, and would be 'housed' at the school.

WHEN: We would propose that, by working together in a timely, yet 'non-rushed' fashion, these bicycles can be ready for operation in April or May, 1997.

HOW: Starting in February, students would be responsible for the tuning up of these bikes. It is estimated to take between 75 and 150 hours of mechanics to produce 30 sound cycling machines. Space, tools, and expertise can be provided by Free Cycles.

Costs: It would cost approximately $35 to restore each bike, for a total of $1,050: $13 for new rear wheel, $6 for 2 new tires, $2 for 2 new tubes, $8 for a new helmet, $6 for Misc = $35 Total per bike (we have most of the parts needed, but we will probably need some hardware, a few new chains, a couple pairs of fenders, and a seat or two).

Safety and Awareness: Free Cycles will help in instructing students on proper riding technique, safety issues, and maintenance.

Long term: We would like to work with Big Sky High School to make this a strong, quality program which eventually supports itself. A small school club could be formed which would be in charge of the minimal maintenance needed to keep the cycles running smoothly. 100-200$ worth of tools would eventually be needed to work on the bikes at the school.

Other Notes:

-could paint all the bikes school colors (art class?)
-the shop class could weld together a couple of bike work stands
-some bikes could have baskets for books, equipment, etc.
-the uses for the bikes are endless, i.e. summer programs
-students could learn valuable skills fixing the bikes
-the $13 wheel would be coaster brake style
-all bicycles would be of one speed
-we could possibly help with fundraising in the Spring

Thanks for your time and we look forward to discussing this proposal.