If you’ve used the SF Bicycle Coalition’s Valet Bike Parking service before, you may have already met Nick Marti. For those of you who have not yet had the chance, look no further. We recently caught up with Nick to talk about his work as a Valet Supervisor and his passion for getting people riding bicycles — a passion so strong, in fact, that we are not the only bicycling organization that he devotes his time to!
SF Bicycle Coalition: When did you first get involved with the SF Bicycle Coalition?
Nick: I first got involved with the SF Bicycle Coalition at Tour de Fat ‘14. I had just volunteered at the ArtCrank Bicycle Art Show and met some cool people there. When I got to the SF Bicycle Coalition tent at Tour de Fat, I got information about a Barter Membership where I could not only become a member, but meet more like-minded people along the way.
We heard that you not only work with the SF Bicycle Coalition, but also work for YBike. What motivates you to get others on bikes?
There’s really no drawback to cycling. It’s fun, it’s healthy, it can be inexpensive, anyone can learn how to do it and it’s one of the most eco-friendly forms of transportation. While all of these factors motivate me, the biggest motivator is my love of teaching and helping people find the joy of cycling, whatever it means to them.
Why did you decide to apply to be a Valet Supervisor, and what are your responsibilities in that role?
I decided to pursue being a Valet Supervisor because I wanted to take my commitment a step beyond volunteering. The SF Bicycle Coalition is an organization that stands behind me as a cyclist, and part of giving back is taking on more responsibility. As a Valet Supervisor, I know that my interactions with the public reflect the SF Bicycle Coalition and the cycling community at large. So besides hauling materials to sites and ensuring theft prevention, I connect with other member-volunteers and the public on the issues relevant to improving our community.
What do you enjoy most about working as a Bike Valet Supervisor?
My favorite part of being a Valet Supervisor has been meeting and getting to know so many other SF Bicycle Coalition members. We have an amazing community, and it’s revitalizing to have passionate conversations about improving our city.
What are some improvements to bicycling that you have seen around your neighborhood, and what would you like to see more of?
This is an oldie but the San Jose Avenue road diet and protected bike lane is definitely my favorite as it made my commute home from CCSF a lot more comfortable. I would love to see some more green paint on Polk Street. I’m also very excited to see how Masonic and Arguello will be improved and how many more cyclists will take advantage of those improvements.
What advice would you give to people who are looking to get involved with the cycling community or learn to ride around the city?
Definitely get out here and either attend one of the SF Bicycle Coalition’s free classes on bike education, volunteer or check the Chain of Events page. We do a lot of Learn to Rides and Bike Rodeos with YBike so check us out!
Are you looking to join a community of individuals like Nick who are committed to bringing safer streets to San Francisco? Join the SF Bicycle Coalition today, and make your voice heard. Already a member? Discover fun ways to volunteer and get involved here.