Bike Works revamps donated cycles and sells them at bargain prices

One cool idea for a hot planet (as in climate change) involves riding a bike, which cuts emissions, saves money and produces buff calves. But first, you need the bike and second, you need one you can afford.

Bike Works in Columbia City likes getting people in the saddle. The yellow wooden storefront beckons cheerfully, and once inside, you'll find quality used bikes for the whole family -- plus parts, accessories and a full-service repair shop (which even sees the occasional jogging stroller and wheelchair).

With its scuffed red concrete floor, Bike Works feels like a friendly coffee shop, albeit one with the faint aroma of grease. Instead of baristas, easygoing bike-loving staff members, like manager Kent Peterson, seem genuinely committed to keeping people happy with their bikes.

"We want to help keep old bikes going, whether we need to dial it in for a better fit, fix what's broken or help you get a bike that fits both your dreams and your budget," says Peterson.

Although the shop is quite small, there's a warehouse around the block that contains more than 150 used bikes at any given time. "We make sure our refurbished bikes are good matches for their new owners," says Peterson. "We'll help you select the right frame, seat, handlebars and other parts to make it a custom fit, because bikes are like shoes -- fit is everything."

The shop's bikes are all received as donations, and they see brands across the board, from low-end Magna and Pacific bikes to cycles from Trek, Specialized, Bianchi, Kona and Peugeot. "We never know what we'll get donated," says Peterson, "so every day is like Christmas here."

Most of the inventory is older mountain bikes, which Bike Works converts into cycles for city commuters. "We add slick, high-pressure tires, fenders and a rack for carrying stuff; we call them the 'Speed Cruisers,'" says Peterson.

Refurbished adult used bikes typically sell for between $200 and $450. The store often has some great "as-is" deals, so if you're handy with your own bike repair, that could be a good choice. Kids' bikes range from $35 to $55.

All of the store's proceeds benefit Bike Works, a nonprofit organization that supports year-round youth and community programs in Columbia City.

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