Gear up for summer biking (without buying new)

Need a bike? 

A used bike can ride just as well as a new one, for a lot less money. 

View full size image of A row of used bikes sit in front of the Community Cycling Center.

Local nonprofits sell refurbished bikes that are tuned up and ready to ride. Staff can help you find the right size and make adjustments so it fits comfortably.

• Community Cycling Center
• Bikes for Humanity
• Bike Farm 
• p:ear bikeworks

You can also look on places like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. If you go this route, keep it simple:

• Make sure the frame isn't cracked.
• Check that brakes work and wheels spin straight.
• Take a short test ride if you can.

Have a bike already? Give it a good tune-up!

A quick tune-up can make an old bike feel brand new. 

View full size image of Person repairs a bicycle while another looks on.

Try the ABC Quick Check

If your bike has been sitting for a while, run through this quick list:

• Air – Are your tires inflated? Check the PSI on the side of the tire. It's often a range (like 70–100 PSI). 
• Brakes – Are they stopping you quickly? When you pull the lever, it shouldn't get too close to the handlebars. If it does, your brakes may need tightening. 
• Chain and cranks – Is pedaling smooth and quiet? Squeaking usually means the chain needs lubricant. If the chain skips gears, it may need repair. A bike shop can help. 
• Quick releases – Are your wheels tight and secure? If your bike wheels have a quick release skewer, make sure the wheel is centered and the lever is fully closed. 
• Check – Do you hear rattling? Loose parts can cause noise; take it to a local bike shop or Repair Café to be checked out. 

If you find an issue and aren't sure how to fix it, you can also stop by a monthly Repair Café in NE Portland, where a volunteer fixer can take a look.

View full size image of A PBOT bike repair class instructor holds a bike tire as class attendees watch.

Learn to fix it yourself

The Community Cycling Center and Bikes for Humanity offer classes where you can learn simple repairs step by step. Places like Bike Farm let you use tools and get help from volunteers. 

Or head to a free class offered by Portland's Bureau of Transportation:

• Tuesday, April 14, 5 – 7 p.m.: Basic Bike Maintenance at N Portland Library  
• Tuesday, June 30, 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.: Basic Bike Maintenance at Albina Library  

If you prefer learning at home, there are also many how-to videos online for things like fixing a flat or adjusting brakes.

Gear up (the low-cost way)

You don't need a lot of gear to start riding. Begin with the basics, then add more if you need it.

A helmet, lights, and a lock are the most important. After that, you might want a rack, basket, or rain gear.

Instead of buying new, try:

• Local bike shops with used sections 
• Community bike spaces like Bike Farm 
• Buy Nothing groups or neighborhood swaps 

Many people have extra gear sitting around. Asking first can save you money and keep good items in use.

New to biking? 

Start with short, easy rides in your neighborhood. Portland has many bike-friendly streets and paths, and tools like the Portland bike map can help you plan low-stress routes.

View full size image of People dressed for rain ride bikes on the Blumenauer Bridge in November 2023.

You can also join a group ride. These are a great way to build confidence and meet people. PBOT's Portland By Cycle program offers free rides and classes throughout the year.

Community bike rides and events (Spring/Summer 2026)

• Saturday, April 11, 12:45 Earth Day Community Bike Ride: Join PBOT's Portland by Cycle team and BIKETOWN on a leisurely 2-mile community bike ride through the Parkrose neighborhood. This ride is part of the City of Portland's Earth in Motion - Earth Day 2026 celebration. 
• Friday, April 24, 3:45 – 5:45 p.m.: Hazelwood Neighborhood Bike Fair  
• Tuesday, May 5, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.: New to Portland Ride – Lents  
• Saturday, May 9, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Bike to Books Family Ride
• Sunday, May 17, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.: Southwest Portland Sunday Parkways   
• Friday, May 29, 2:45 – 5:45 p.m.: Centennial Neighborhood Bike Fair  
• Thursday, June 11, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.: New to Portland Ride – East Portland  
• Sunday, June 28, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.: East Portland Sunday Parkways   

Ready to roll?

View full size image of Person riding an e-bike with the cityscape in the background

Pick one easy step to get started:

• Tune up a bike you already own or visit a local shop or nonprofit to find a used bike
• Borrow a Biketown bike and head out for a sunny ride
• Ask your neighbors if they have gear to share

You might be closer to riding than you think.

Thanks to our friends at the City's SmartTrips program for sharing this great information. Visit the SmartTrips website for more tips on getting around Portland by foot, bike, and public transit.