I’ve been working in Corporate America for the past 20 years. When I say those words to fellow riders, they all say the same thing: “I’m so sorry”.
I was fortunate to work with some of the most talented people, on some very exciting things. But something was missing. I was always working for someone else, and never on my passion.
In the summer of 2015, I learned to ride a motorcycle, and I was instantly addicted. I could ride all day, taking in the sights, smells, sounds, and temperature changes as I rode. Crossing a bridge or going through a tunnel was as exciting as a child taking his first plane flight. It was relaxing and therapeutic, and I was living in the moment.
A year later, I was with my family in Arizona visiting the national parks. I was yearning to explore our country on two wheels. There weren’t bikes available. The same thing happened in Italy. Then finally in Greensboro, North Carolina when I was visiting my in-laws. So I did what many riders have done — I checked Craigslist. Maybe I’d find a cheap treasure in Greensboro. I could buy it, keep it at my in-laws, and ride around North Carolina whenever I needed the escape from my wife’s family.
I couldn’t believe what I saw. 900 bikes, all in the Greensboro area, all for sale. My mind raced about connecting both worlds: guys like me who wanted to ride, and people who no longer needed their bikes.
I left Corporate America in January and started working. I developed a plan, found some developers, and spoke to riders. I wasn’t the only one who felt this way. It was a big problem.
My largest hurdle was getting insurance. Nobody was going to put their bike on our site unless we could stand behind any damages that happened during the rental period. Also, I needed to make sure that owners and my family were protected in case we were met with a catastrophic event. Finally, after over 100 meetings and calls with lawyers and insurance experts, we got it done.
The industry feedback has been strong. People love what we are doing, they are listing their bikes, and making money. Riders are finding bikes they want as they travel.
It’s early, and we have a long way to go, but it’s all within reach. Keep sharing our company with friends and fellow riders: the more bikes on our site, the greater the chance you will find exactly what you are looking for exactly when you need it.
Be safe,
Austin


