BCAA’s Bike Assist service extended to all cyclists during June

June 01, 2010

Although “automobile” is BCAA’s “middle name”, the association extends the same peace of mind provided by its reliable Road Assist service to members commuting by bicycle. During Bike Month in June, BCAA is offering Bike Assist to all member and non-member cyclists in case they experience a problem during their ride.

From June 1-30, cyclists who’ve experienced a mechanical breakdown can contact BCAA Road Assist service to receive help. And, if their bike is beyond repairable, the BCAA technician will transport the cyclist and their bike a maximum of five kilometres to their destination or nearby bike repair shop.

BCAA is the first automobile association in North America to provide roadside assistance for members choosing pedal power over motor power.

According to Ken Cousin, BCAA’s associate vice president of Road Assist, many bicycle breakdowns occur after bikes are taken out of winter storage and put on the road without receiving an adequate tune up.

“It’s the same as having a car sit in a garage for a long period,” explains Cousin. “Before you can ride off you need to check tires and other mechanical parts to ensure the vehicle is working properly and is safe.”

“Bicycle parts such as tires, chains and brakes need to be inspected, tuned up and replaced to ensure the bike is sound for the road. Good maintenance will not only help cyclists avoid mechanical breakdowns, they’ll get more mileage for the amount of physical energy they expend to ‘fuel’ their ride.”

This is the fifth year BCAA has offered bicycle roadside assistance to all B.C. cyclists during Bike Month. The organization hopes more people will be encouraged to try cycling knowing there’s help available in case of a breakdown.

Bike Assist was introduced as a permanent membership benefit last year. BCAA has received over 235 calls from cyclists. “Our service technicians have attended to a variety of bicycle breakdowns,” says Cousin, adding: “Flat tires and problems with bike chains are the most common issues cyclists face.”

How to Get Assistance

Cyclists needing help can call BCAA Road Assist at 604-293-2222 (Lower Mainland), 1-800-222-4357 (rest of B.C.) or *222 by cell phone. For more information on BCAA “Bike Assist” or road safety tips for cyclists and motorists, visit [Link to bcaa.com/bikeassist] or email bikeassist@bcaa.com.

Criteria for Bike Month Bike Assist

• The cyclist must have experienced a mechanical breakdown, which includes any issue that makes the bike inoperable during a rider’s commute, such as a broken chain or flat tire. (No assistance will be provided to cyclists looking to avoid challenging terrain or inclement weather)
• Manual (non-motorized) bicycles are eligible for Bike Assist service
• If the repair cannot be made at the site of the breakdown, the service technician will transport the cyclist and their bicycle a maximum of five kilometres to their destination or a bike repair shop
• One cyclist can be accommodated at a time.