"Will did a great job managing the event and seemed like everyone knew exactly what they were doing. We cut off the line at around 4 and everybody was happy. I managed to fix some bikes and sifted through the line between repairs so nobody was waiting too long. We managed to start packing at 5 and by 6 were out. We kept the repairs at no more than 10 mins, customers with complicated repairs were advised that we are limited with what we can do for them and even took 3 bikes to the shop for more complicated repairs that needed specific parts or a full tune up. You guys/gals are great!" - Roy, Bike Boom
For those of you who come regularly to our events, you know how long are lines for bike repairs are (people start coming in and standing in line 45 minutes before the show starts!) And thus it is a BIG deal that MIT PN2K managed to finish on time -- it marks the first time ever we did not run over by half an hour (or 60-90 minutes, as has happened in some 2015 bike events when we wanted to be ambitious and help everyone with everything!)
We still love our cyclists, and we want to make sure everyone leaves with safe bikes, but MIT PN2K is now working with Bike Boom to consider ways that will decrease wait times and improve the experience of everyone there, so you're not standing in line for a few hours when all you need is something simple done!
For instance, our air/oil station is separate from the main line (where you actually need to have your bikes looked at by professionals). The main line is also separate from flat-tire repairs (which take a minimum of 15 minutes). As Will mentioned, he basically focused on flats the entire duration of the event (because many of you had flats!)
We also had cake and Easter candy eggs to celebrate MIT PN2K and the greater cycling community! This was supplemented by other helpful stations (bike registrations, managed by Nick) and bike trivia (by Jay). The friendly smile who greeted you upon registration is Dingfang, and your smiles were captured by Yaoming. Now that you know most of the MIT PN2K team, say hi next time!
Due to a technical error out of our hands, we weren't able to set up our pressure-washer station, so please keep an eye out for our April event where we make this up. We know you guys want to clean your bikes, so we look forward to making that happen next month. In the meantime, look towards our PN2K calendar here where you'll see our upcoming meeting dates.
April will be a busy month with two CPW events, a bike event, a bike ride with Boston Bike Party, the Boston Midnight Marathon Bike Ride, and a Cambridge Connection Tent event organized by the Institute. Till next time, Keep Calm & Pedal On!
