NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — First it was toilet paper, then hand sanitizer, and now bicycles are the latest hot commodity during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Customers have been lining up at the Green Fleet Bicycle Shop on Jefferson Street ever since it re-opened. The inside of the store remains closed, so all sales of new bikes and repairs of old ones take place curbside. Employees are working hard to keep up with the demand.
"The phone has been ringing off the hook," said Austin Bauman, owner of Green Fleet Bicycle Shop. "We've gone through about a year's worth of bikes in the last 30 days."
Before the COVID-19 outbreak, Green Fleet also offered bike rentals, but that has been temporarily stopped. Bauman said they have their hands full with sales and repairs. He said other bike stores across the city are experiencing the same demand.
"I think in the next two weeks, you probably won't be able to find a bike that is less than one thousand dollars in Nashville," said Bauman.
Bauman said it isn't surprising bikes are becoming popular in a world of social distancing. He said people are looking for entertainment, ways to stay active and connect with family members.
"There's a lot of anxiety out there, and riding a bike is a great way to release your anxiety," said Bauman. "You get your endorphins flowing and get out in nature."
With more bikes on the road, Executive Director of Walk Bike Nashville Nora Kern hopes this highlights the importance of making streets safer.
"A lot of what we've been hearing is people feel like they can finally get out because there are fewer cars on their neighborhood street, so they feel safe," said Kern. "So, how can we recreate that feeling of safety when we go back to normal life?"
Kern said she expects bicycles will still be a common sight on Nashville roads even after the COVID-19 outbreak ends.
"I think a lot of people are discovering it for the first time, and hopefully, they will stick with it."
Metro Nashville Public Works and Mayor John Cooper's office closed 8 roads to thru traffic to promote social distancing while walking, running and biking. For more information on the Slow Streets, and a list of recommended bike routes visit: https://www.walkbikenashville.org/maps
