Bicycle Sales on The Rise
It is not unusual that bicycle sales ramp up in spring as the Sacramento temperatures rise. This year, as we all know, is an unusual one, and one area in which that can be measured is the number of bike sales and requests for bicycle repairs. Both are much higher than usual. Logically, this makes sense as gyms are closed, and residents are searching for ways to get exercise and get out of the house. Outdoor exercise has never been disallowed under the local COVID-19 regulations, so Sacramento bicycling is having a big moment.
Sacramento Bicycle Stores
Some stores are seeing such an increase in business that in an effort to abide by social distancing guidelines, they are doing business by appointment only. Other area bicycle vendors are running low on stock. Here are some top-rated independent bicycle shops in the Sacramento area that are open now, although their hours may be affected by the pandemic, so it is wise to call before stopping by:
- West Capitol Cyclery – 2027 W Capitol Ave, West Sacramento, CA 95691. Bikes and repairs.
- Natomas Bike Shop – 3291 Truxel Road, Sacramento. The shop is currently open. They sell bikes and do repairs.
- Mike’s Bikes – 1411 I Street, Sacramento. Bikes, accessories, repairs. They offer financing options. Curbside pick up and delivery are also available.
- Sutterville Bicycle Company – 2365 Sutterville Bypass, across from Sacramento City College. Full-service bike shop with an emphasis on service and repairs. They also sell all types of biles. Special orders and custom work available.
- The Bicycle Business – 3077 Freeport Boulevard. Bike sales, bike repairs, specialty order. Currently allowing only two customers at a time in the shop.
- Neighborhood Bike Shop – 5520 H Street, Sacramento, currently operating by appointment only. Bike sales and repair. This company has donated a lot of bikes over the years to charitable organizations.
- College Cyclery – 2160 21st Street, Sacramento. Currently, repairs and tune-ups are by appointment only.
One other special Sacramento area bicycle business is the Sacramento Bicycle Kitchen. It is currently closed due to COVID-19 but expects to open as soon as it is feasible. The SBK is a community-centered bike shop. It was created to promote cycling as a cost-efficient alternative form of transportation, promote bicycle safety, and self-sufficiency by teaching bicycle maintenance and repair. The business relies on volunteers and provides the tools, staff, and space to help its customers learn how to perform their own bicycle repairs – all that is required is a small cash donation.
Watch the Good Day Sacramento clip below featuring the Sacramento Bicycle Kitchen.
New Cyclist Safety
Even with the ubiquitous red JUMP bikes being pulled from our area, regular Sacramento cyclists are noticing a lot more bicycle traffic on the bike lanes, sidewalks, and American River Bike Trail. Because there are so many two-wheeled novices out on the road, the risk of bicycle accidents and injuries has increased. If you are new to cycling, the following safety tips may be helpful:
- Always wear your helmet. It reduces your risk of severe injuries or death by as much as 85%.
- Look ahead, not at the ground. Keep your head up. You need every second you can get to react and maneuver.
- Never ride with more than one person per bike.
- If riding with friends, keep space between the bikes and ride single-file.
- Always ride on the right side of the road, in a bike lane, if available. Do not ride against traffic.
- Make sure your bicycle is the right size for you.
- Avoid peak traffic hours and busy roads – plan a safer route.
- If you can avoid riding at night, do so. If you cannot, use reflective clothing and bike lights.
- Learn to maintain your bike – know how to change a flat. Inspect your bike regularly.
- The Sacramento area is prone to bike theft, so lock your bike even if you keep it in your backyard.
Sacramento Bicycle Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento bicycle accident lawyer. Bicycle accidents often result in devastating injuries. In the unfortunate event that you or someone you love suffered injuries at the hands of a careless and negligent driver, do not hesitate to call my office for free and friendly advice: (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400.
I am honored to be a member of the Million Dollar Forum and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.
I have more than 38 years of experience advocating on behalf of injured Sacramento residents.
My former clients often take time to post reviews of the services my firm offered. Those reviews can be read at these sites:
Photo Attribution: Mabel Amber https://pixabay.com/photos/woman-person-cyclist-bicycle-3704749/
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