Above: Cyclists, vendors and more attend the New Paltz Bike Swap to recycle or pick up new wheels. Photo courtesy of New Paltz Bike Swap Facebook page.
Bike enthusiasts hoping to recycle their rides can trade in forgotten, road-weary bicycles or shop around for a new set of wheels this Saturday at the 7th annual New Paltz Bike Swap.
The swap offers a marketplace for bike buyers and sellers to meet and hopefully get some under-used cycles back on the streets, according to organizer Pete Nimmer. The event also offers deals on bike parts, equipment, bags and other vintage bike items, according to the New Paltz Bike Swap website.
The banana-seat ride of your dreams could be waiting for you. But if you're a bike connoisseur with a passion for vintage wheels, show up early, Nimmer said.
“The best finds sell fast,” Nimmer said. “But not everyone’s looking for a vintage bike to ride around.”
If you just need a bike -- any bike -- for a reasonable price, you'll find something no matter what time you show up. Nimmer said that he’s seen countless bikes that might have otherwise been left propped up against a garage wall get purchased and put back on the road through this community-sponsored event.
“People are cycling to get to work and to get around,” Nimmer said. “I hope people walk away with a bike they want to ride, or one they need.”
The swap attracts hundreds of buyers, sellers and spectators, Nimmer said.
Those looking to sell just need to bring their bikes for the check-in period at 9 a.m. From there, swap volunteers will help tag and price the items with 20 percent of the sale price going to the Fats in the Cats Bicycle Club, a Hudson Valley-based non-profit cycling advocacy group promoting and lobbying for cycling legislation, trail building and maintenance and community service.
“It’s an opportunity to kindle or rekindle your love of cycling,” Nimmer said. “I hope we get some kids on bikes, moms and dads on bikes, grandma’s and grandpa’s on bikes too.”
The New Paltz Bike Swap. Saturday, May 10, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. New Paltz Middle School, 2 South Manheim Blvd., New Paltz. newpaltzbikeswap.com.
