Originally uploaded to flickr by Elly Blue
Whenever I go home to New Jersey I regularly see bikes left unlocked outside of homes and even busy stores. I’m jealous and also inclined to steal these bikes just to teach the owners a lesson. See, I’ve had some bad luck with bikes in the District (and I know I’m not the only one).
In 2005, a thief stole my locked bike in the middle of the night from my front yard. One week to the day later, my husband took his bike out of the basement—we learned our lesson about locking up our bikes outside—so I could ride it to work. Locked to the fence for no more than 15 minutes, a thief broke the lock and rode my bike down the street and out of my reach. Despite my best efforts to chase down the thief, he got away and I never saw the bike again.
Since the thefts, I’ve been extra protective of my bikes. I’m especially nervous when it comes time to park my bike somewhere other than in my basement. Will my headlight still be attached? Will I have all of my tires? What about my fancy leather bike seat, will it be there? I’m filled with worry any time I park my bike outside, except when I go to Nationals Park. Why is that? Because I use the amazing bike valet service sponsored by CycleLife USA.
On game day, I ride my bike to the entrance of the bike valet “garage” located at the corner of N and First Streets SE. One of two bike valets takes my bike and places it on a rack while I fill out a claim check. That’s it. In a matter of minutes I am on my way to the game, certain that my bike is safe and secure—without even having to lock it up!
While the service, in place since the park opened in 2008, is free, I do tip the valets regularly. I offer a cash tip at the end of a run of games at the park. It’s worth the extra cash knowing my bike and its accessories are waiting for me when the game is through. If only the people riding the bikes locked to the bike racks around the park took advantage of this great service. Your U-locks could use the break!
The Bike Valet is one of my favorite features at the park. And the people that staff it are always super nice!