Become a Bike Mentor!

Tue, 27 Jul 2004 21:04:47 -0400

We encourage experienced Bicycle Commuters in the Charlotte area to join our pool of available Mentors. There is no required level of involvement – when a BCMP coordinator informs you of a new mentoring opportunity, you decide whether it's right for you before your name is given to the prospective bike commuter.

Mentors should be:

at least somewhat experienced using the bicycle for transportation, especially commuting,
comfortable in urban cycling and riding in traffic,
familiar with the roadways and geographical area they will mentor,
capable of effectively communicating with new commuters, and
able to recognize when a new commuter's bicycle is unsafe for commuting.

If this sounds like you and you're willing to help others join our ranks, please contact us at info@bikementor.org.

What Does a Bike Mentor Do?

Tue, 27 Jul 2004 21:09:02 -0400

When you commit to mentor a new commuter, we expect that you will:

respond promptly to the request for your assistance and be punctual in participation,
know and abide by applicable traffic laws,
always wears a helmet,
be patient working with the new commuter, and
respect a new commuter's decision to terminate a ride because of unacceptable risk or difficulty and work with them in finding an alternative or returning to their starting point.

Most mentoring engagements will extend over 2-4 weeks and progress through the following steps:

An introductory conversation over the phone or in person to learn the new commuter's proposed route, level of cycling experience, and need, if any, for tips on how to prepare.
As the new commuter prepares for their first ride, you'll answer their questions on equipment, clothing, supplies, and "tricks of the trade".
Agreement on time and route for the new commuter's first ride to work and upon their ongoing commuting goal.
Accompany the new commuter on one actual commute during the new commuter’s normal commuting time.
Set realistic goals with the new commuter, or if the new commuter clearly lacks either the skills or fitness to safely bike commute, tell them so in a tactful manner, and work with them to find an alternative mode of transportation.
Be available for follow-up questions and suggestions as the new commuter gains experience.

Of course, we hope you and the entire mentor group will be able to maintain contact with most new commuters via the Bike Commuter Support Group.

Note:

The Mentor is not to perform any physical repairs to a new commuter’s bicycle.

Bicycle Commuter Mentor Program of Charlotte, North Carolina - Mentors

Become a Bike Mentor!

What Does a Bike Mentor Do?