CDOT is bringing its free bike-riding classes to Englewood on Monday nights in August. Want help learning to ride a bike—or relearning? The SAFE Ambassadors will be at 65th and Racine to help get you back in the saddle.
The Chicago Department of Transportation’s SAFE Ambassadors are skilled bicyclists who will work with anyone who wants to learn. Lessons take place off the street using the City’s Divvy bikes in a safe and supportive environment.
“This is a great opportunity for anyone—from those who’ve never ridden a bike to those who haven’t ridden in a while—to learn basic bike-riding skills and safety tips from the experts. And these lessons may be more timely than ever before, as the Covid-19 pandemic continues to create a surge in popularity for bike riding,” said CDOT Commissioner Gia Biagi. “Act now to reserve a spot if you are interested!”
The two-hour classes will be held near Ogden Park, starting from the Divvy dock at 65th and Racine, on Monday, August 17th and 24th from 5 to 7 p.m. The parking lot of Bass Elementary will be the practice area. Learn to Ride is also offered at 500 N. Sacramento near Humboldt Park on Thursdays and Saturdays.
Reservations are granted on a first-come, first-serve basis and Divvy bikes are available for students to use. There are three ways to sign up:
Complete the Google form at this link: https://forms.gle/XdB2SugfDtsNTjss7
Email [email protected]
Or leave a voicemail at 312-736-2534
Adult participants will receive a free helmet, subject to availability. The classes are also open to children with a guardian if space is available; however, children under 16 must bring their own bike. Adults under 5’ 3” are encouraged to bring their own bike, as Divvy bikes are most comfortable for riders 5’3” and taller.
New bike cleaning and safety protocols are in place in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Instructors will wear face coverings throughout each session and will practice social distancing from each other and attendees. Participants will also be expected to bring and wear a face covering, and CDOT will make hand sanitizer available.
The classes are supported by sponsorship revenue CDOT received from Divvy, the City’s bikeshare partner. CDOT has announced plans to expand the Divvy system to cover the entire City of Chicago by 2021.