View Full Version : Kids bike parts source


pitt83
02-22-2007, 04:53 AM
I volunteered to repair the fleet of bikes at a safe house for kids in transitional families. I love the school as they let us MTB on their property and host races on site. They school needs as much cheap or free resource as the money has to go to the kids.

I checked out the bikes yesterday. They're all Next, Huffy, cheap W-mart stuff. Most suffer from poor initial builds (handle bar installed backwards with the sweep in the reverse direction); I can fix that.

I need 5 speed click shifters, flat pedals, 20" tires. Anyone know where I can get OEM wal-mart components or the like for VERY cheap?

Dinosaur
02-22-2007, 08:16 AM
Try Target.....

Howzitbroke
02-22-2007, 08:47 AM
For suppliers try J&B Importers. They have the best selection of less expensive parts. They are similar to QBP in that they are a wholesale supplier but with the service you are providing they may be willing to sell parts to you at cost. Another (free or dang cheap) option is simply to try a thrift shop like Salvation Army Stores and pick up a bunch of their bikes, around here they go for $5-$10 a bike in most cases. Part them out. Heck try a local shop and see if they will let you make a bulk order from J&B or Merry Sales for a small percentage above cost = shipping.

FatTireFred
02-22-2007, 08:52 AM
loosescrews.com
biketoolsetc.com

JCavilia
02-22-2007, 10:08 AM
beyond those already mentioned. But I'd like to give you a pat on the back. That's a nice thing you're doing. Any little thing one can do to help kids in those situations is worthwhile.

pitt83
02-23-2007, 04:46 AM
I think the scavanger method will work best. I should be able to find enough discards around (that's just sad when you think about it) to obtain OEM parts for the bikes we're fixing. It's a fleet of 20 bikes and I'll likely be able to get enough.

I thought it was cool that the one part which was most worn was rear tires. Obviously from skidding out. Shows me it's worth my time to keep that going. :-)