Cleaning out the old bicycle parts bin always seems to start as a simple task, but can often turn into quite a dilemma. What should be kept or pitched? What has value, and what might be worth the hassle of selling on eBay or Craigslist? What has no real monetary value, but is still a functioning part that could have some use? Even for the latter, there may be an option other than the trash can for those parts and bikes that are still good, but not worth the hassle of selling. In a word: donation.
In almost all 50 states and in many countries around the world, there are community bike shops that only function through the goods and cash donations by individuals and companies. These shops have many different goals… introducing underprivileged children learn to bike; teaching individuals how to service a bike; allowing people to earn a bike through donating their time servicing the bikes for others; promoting cycling as a sustainable form of transportation; and many more different reasons. The common link of course is the bicycle.
As the saying goes, one man’s trash is another treasure. The frame, rear derailleur, used jersey and even an old tire that you are about to throw in the trash may still have value to these organizations. The parts are often used to build or repair other bikes, while the clothing is either given to those in need or sold in the retail shop so that the money can be used to keep the doors open. In addition, most are registered non-profits which probably means a tax write-off at the end of the year for you. One of the best ways to find these shops is through an online directory at the website Bicycle Collective Network.
Along with doing good by donating your unwanted bicycle parts and clothing, you might find treasures for yourself. Most of these organizations have a retail space or allow you to rummage through their parts bins for bits that you might need for your personal bike build, but bring cash – most of these shops do not take plastic.
So next time you are cleaning house or making room in your stable for that new carbon fiber ride or bib shorts, remember that your old gear has value to those in need. Introducing inner city kids to bikes or enabling an individual to earn a bike so that they can get to work should be reward enough, but the possible tax benefit just sweetens the deal just a little bit more.
Bicycle Collective Network Official Website