Bike Repair Station + Vending Machine = Cyclist Self-Help

There aren’t many drawbacks to bike commuting, but unexpected breakdowns would definitely top the list. Unless you want to carry around a big pack of supplies, there are going to be times when you’re out biking and need some air or replacement parts. If you’re lucky enough to be a cyclist in Minneapolis, you don’t have to worry about seeking out a specialty shop for those parts – just head to the Uptown Transit Station. There you’ll find a big red vending machine next to a repair stand and air hose.

This is the Bike Fixtation, a self-service bike repair station that provides just about everything you need to keep your bike on the road. Inside the vending machine are essentials like tubes, patch kits, lights, energy bars and refreshing drinks. The repair stand is equipped with a variety of tools to help riders make whatever repairs are needed, and the air hose offers free air for deflated tires. The vending machine was designed to be rugged and resistant to vandals, so even if some rage-filled biker wails on it for not having the right flavor of Clif Bar it will be good to go for the next weary traveler.

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See more in Bikes & Cycles or under Transportation. July, 2011.