Press

Bike Tune Up Service

Q: Can I come in and work on my own bike?
A: Unfortunately not right now. Vélocity has suspended our Do-It-Yourself (DIY) programs until further notice, due to space limitations and social distancing requirements. Please check our DIY page for the latest updates on this program.
Q: How much to get my dusty bike in rideable shape?
A: Vélocity offers full tuneups for $75 excluding part replacements, please see our Additonal Repair Services page for more information.
Q: What is the turnaround time for bike repairs?
A: Anywhere from next day to a week during peak season.
Q: I’m having [_______] problem and hearing [_______] with my bike. Do you know what the problem is? How much does a repair like this run?
A: We can’t say for sure without you bringing the bike to the shop. Please refer all questions to the Vélocity shop manager at 703-549-1108.
Q: Can I sell my used bikes or parts to Vélocity Coop?
A: Sorry, Vélocity does not purchase used bicycles or parts. However, because of our 501c3 non-profit status, Vélocity Bicycle Cooperative can provide you a tax deductible receipt for any material or financial donations you wish to make.
Q: Do you require appointments?
A: Nope! 🙂
Q: Do you do mobile repairs?
A: Sorry, Vélocity Bicycle Cooperative currently does not have the capacity to support our customer base through mobile repairs. Vélocity does support bike rodeos where we visit local schools and affordable housing in underserved neighborhoods. For more information, please see the Community Services pages on the Vélocity website.

Bike Donations

Q: Does Vélocity take donations in any condition?
A: Yep!
Q: Does Vélocity pick up donations off-site?
A: Please bring your donations to the shop whenever possible. For special circumstances, such as large collections or special items, please contact our shop.

Looking for a Specific Bike?

Q: I’m looking for hybrid in good shape. Does Vélocity have one?
A: The selection in the Vélocity Cooperative shop is constantly changing. Please feel free to call the shop (703-549-1108) to ask what bikes and sizes are currently available.
Q: How much for [_______] type bike?
A: Kid bikes typically range between $50-$150. Adult bikes typically range between $150-$400.
Q: Does Vélocity rent bikes?
A: Unfortunately the cost of liability insurance is prohibitive for the number of rentals Vélocity Cooperative might provide. You might try Wheel Nuts, as they rent bikes. Else our used bikes are very reasonably priced and completely serviced. You could find a bargain awaits!

Packaging/Unpackaging Bicycles

Q: Can I mail a bike in a box to Vélocity to be assembled?
A: Yes! Assembling a new bicycle is $75 and consists of the same items as a full tune up. Please provide us with your phone number and we’ll call you when it’s ready to pick up. If the bike is not new (only has been partially disassembled for shipping) it will cost $45 as long as there is no tuning needed.
Q: Does Vélocity package and ship bicycles?
A: Vélocity will pack but not ship. If you would like us to help you, please bring a bike box and packing materials (you can get from any local bike shop) and Vélocity will then partially disassmble and pack it safely for travel. The cost is for this service is $45.

Is the Shop Open?

Q: Is Vélocity open on holidays?
A: Vélocity closes for some but not all holidays.  We’ll post a message on our Twitter and Facebook at least a day ahead of any planned closures.
Q: Is Vélocity open during inclement weather?
A: Vélocity posts notices on Twitter and Facebook as soon as we determine we will be closing unexpectedly due to weather or closing for a period of time based upon other conditions. If staff are out temporarily, a sign will be posted in the window indicating when they will be returning.

Miscellaneous

Q: I’m interested in véloteering (volunteering). How do I get involved?
A: Thanks for your interest! We would love to have you join our team. Please visit the Véloteer with Vélocity page and complete the volunteer questionnaire. We'll add your email to our véloteer list and you options of how, where and when you can begin your participation. Hopefully we'll see you very soon!
Q: What’s your address?
A: Our shop’s address is 2111 Mount Vernon Avenue in Alexandria. It’s a bright orange building. Our warehouse address is 1502 Mount Vernon Avenue. About 6 blocks away from our shop, behind Al’s Steakhouse in the Alley.
Q: How do I serve community service hours?
A: Community service hours involve supporting our Shop Manager during the week. Typical activities include restocking shelves, putting donations away, answer basic customer questions, and may include minor bike repair based on your level of experience. Please call the shop manager at 703-549-1108.
Q: Do you have student/military/law enforcements discounts?
A: Sorry we don’t, although as part of our mission is to grow and empower a more inclusive biking community through affordability, we’ll work within your price range.
Q: Do you take credit cards?
A: Yep!

For all other questions, please contact one of the following POCs:

  • Vélocity Event questions involving bike rodeos, fundraisers, rides, and event promotions: Email joe.davison@velocitycoop.org
  • Vélocity Public/Private Partnership Opportunities: Email spokeperson@velocitycoop.org