May I borrow your bike?

I was at work and speaking with a friend. He is fit and active but not a cyclist. He tells me that he signed up for a triathlon. I encourage him. He says – may I borrow your bike. I reply –

You may borrow my car.

No, your bike.

I have the keys right here, when do you need it?

No, I do not need your car, I want to borrow your bike.

My car is always available when you need  it.

OK – I am guessing I cannot borrow your bike.

Ahh, now we can have a conversation. I go on to explain that I am racing that bike and it is set up for me. To alter the seat height/adjustments and handlebar height etc. is just not something that a racer wants to mess with. And, in those days, it was my only road bike, and I was actively training for races. I was a bit serious in those days and training was a daily event. I certainly do not want to be without it completely. He understands. We remain friends. He performs well in the triathlon.  

That really is ‘the way’ with a nice bike. In fact, I live by the rule that you never ask to borrow a person’s bike. If they have an extra one, that might be different but not their main bike. I think that is also an unwritten rule in the music community.  My musician friend once said, ‘never hand over your guitar at a gig.” OK.  

My significant other was living in another city, and I would fly there regularly and rent a bike. Her friend (that was also my friend by that point – kindred soul), offered his bike. I said, “What?” He offered his main mountain bike. I declined but thanked him. He laughed and said, “I have ridden with you a long time and watched how you ride and how you care for a bike, please use my bike, do not rent one. I am working that day anyway and have other bikes.”  That is the ultimate compliment and act of gracious friendship. Of course, I measured everything and returned it exactly as I borrowed it. Of course, he had those measurements also and told me not to worry about it. But when trust is given to you – you live up to it with actions.  It was a joy to ride that bike instead of a rental. It was not the only time he loaned me a bike. I am still grateful. He is still a friend. Thank you, Jason.  

Recently – it happened again. I was traveling in Victoria, BC. Although this was my 4th trip to that area, I had never ridden a bike there, and this trip included no plan to ride. After the airlines got me there a day late and never delivered my luggage, I was glad I did not have my bike. For my last day I planned a day in Victoria as purely a tourist. Someone in my workshop offered to take me around – thanks Alison. Her husband offered his bike … he said he had an extra. A sweet Ritchey Logic Cross bike. I got a tour of Victoria from the saddle. What a joy. Thanks, Phil, for the bike and Alison for the tour.  

As an aside – Victoria, BC has it together regarding bike infrastructure.  Bike lanes, so many people out riding, walking, running. A bike valet – you heard it… drop your bike off and walk around, come get it when you want it. Cost – zero. Go Victoria Go. More on that soon…

Still – do not ask to borrow a bike from your bike friend. If it is offered – then you can decide what to do next. Yes, I have accepted offers and have offered.  Recently I set up my extra road bike for an old friend that was in town. It happens. I think the theme is to allow it to be offered … do not ask. 

What do you think?  Do you loan your bike out to just anyone?  Only to a ‘serious rider’?  Only for cash?  Would never consider it?