Bike SA whinge and suggestion...

I don't want to whinge too much as I do appreciate the concept of Bike SA, but I popped in there twice on this trip down here and both times was greeted with cold indifference. The first time was to see about bike path maps and the second about borrowing a spoke key. The first time I got the maps, albeit grudgingly, and the second was told no way would they lend me any tools nor help me in any way. I did end up at the Melbourne St. bike store in North Adelaide to borrow the spoke key from the heaps nice and generous owner - a couple of quick turns of the key and my wheel was straight. Yes, I know I should have brought my own, but it is the one tool I left at home - so small and useful too - my bad!

Again, not to whinge, but I had hoped the Bike SA people would have been a little more helpful and friendly to a visitor from out of town. I do understand that they don't want people doing major fixes on their bikes there, fair enough, but it got me thinking that would be great to see them with something like this "Bike Kitchen" I saw at the University of Victoria In Victoria, BC, Canada - a great idea and something for any Uni or community bike organization like Bike SA.

0 members like this

▶ Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by heather on March 8, 2012 at 15:57

Doddsy, ratbag bugs? from your BUG coordinator

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by greg looyestyn on March 8, 2012 at 11:39

I am having a meeting with BikeSa regarding the VeloAdelaide next week. Our Mt Lofty Scout Group is manning two of the stops (Crafers and Mt Lofty) so if anyone would like to be a Volunteer for two hours on the day you are very kindly invited.

Other stops are being run by other scout groups so I would be happy to forward your details if you would like to contribute.

If you have any ideas to help make it better then feel free to join in and have a go.

I have ridden in a few rides and also served at a few refreshment stops. If you're not riding- why not join in and support those who are.I have found it easier to "assist" with changes by getting involved "within" the groups concerned. Which hopefully leads to a better experience for all cyclists.

I must disclose that there is a donation made to scouts for this work- the money goes towards sending some of them to Jamboree.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Clive Palfrey on March 8, 2012 at 15:36

Only been in there a few times and mostly to pick up jersey , maps etc for community rides. Always found the volunteers to be working hard under pressure and as friendly as they can be under the circumstances (if they have a chat with me then the next guy in line has to wait even longer). On the other occaisions I've been in there staff/volunteers always appear to be busy with their duties and no apparent person specifically there for customer service but I've never had an issue in getting service. I've also observed that most of the public appear to be bike hirers/borrowers and seem to get prompt attention. My biggest criticism would be of the apparent permanently temporary spartan secondhand worn out furnishings and decor which is well over due for a makeover, but if they did that can you imagine the hue and cry next time they advertised an event and the complaints of profiteering. Bike SA is a non profit organisation, mostly run by volunteers, paying your membership gets you insurance and discounts to events. If you think things could or should be run better then volunteer to join the committee and make some suggestions.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Caroline Cuthbert on March 8, 2012 at 19:49

+ 1

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Frank on March 8, 2012 at 19:57

Been there myself when i paid my fee for the Gillet ride, i appreciate the work done by any volunteers, done so for some time myself in the CFS but why volunteer if its to the detriment to the business even if its a Not For Profit One?

At this point in my life, I do not have the inclination to volunteer and my riding is not one where I frequent the place and also, mass participation rides are not for me!

I am however a paid up financial member and wish them luck but like any business, you are only as good as your staff!

That place is rotten to the bone even if you feel its not.

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Sean Carnie on March 9, 2012 at 7:15

Bike SA has a 'paid' CEO who could also be looking at alternatives, I think everyone can make comment, your happy with what you see and recieve, its not necessarily the view of all, doesn't mean we all have to join a committee. Not for profits are competing against other organisations so doesnt give the the option to 'opt' out in relation to customer service.