Want help learning to ride a bike—or relearning? Sign up now for a spot in our free classes. This year’s first Learn to Ride session is June 1, kicking off three months of classes at three locations.
“With the growth of our 350-mile plus bikeway network and the ongoing citywide expansion of Divvy, there’s never been a better time to pick up bike riding in Chicago,” says CDOT Commissioner Gia Biagi. “CDOT’s Learn to Ride program presents a perfect opportunity for folks who have never ridden a bike before—as well as those who haven’t ridden in long time—to learn basic bike-riding skills and safety tips from the experts.”
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 Divvy bikes in a safe and supportive environment.
The 2021 Learn to Ride classes will be offered as follows:
Tuesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Divvy station at 300 N. Central Park Ave. at the Garfield Park Conservatory:
- June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
- July 6, 13, 20, 27
- August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m., meeting at the Divvy station at 500 N. Sacramento Blvd., next to the Greater West Town Training Partnership:
- June 3, 10, 17, 24
- July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
- August 5, 12, 19, 26
Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon at 1401 S. Sacramento Dr. at the Douglass Park fieldhouse:
- June 5, 19
- July 3, 17, 31
- August 14, 28
Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon, meeting at the Divvy station at 500 N. Sacramento Blvd., next to the Greater West Town Training Partnership:
- June 12, 26
- July 10, 24
- August 7, 21
Adults who have pre-registered for the two-hour classes 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. Participants under 5 feet 3 inches are encouraged to bring their own bike, as Divvy bikes are most comfortable for taller riders.
For those 16 and older who have successfully completed a basic Learn to Ride class and are looking to build confidence riding on the streets of Chicago, CDOT will be offering street skills classes at Seward Park, 375 W. Elm St., on the following dates:
June 12 and 26, July 10 and 24, August 7 and 21 from 1 to 3 p.m.
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 this Google registration form; send an email to [email protected]; or leave a voicemail at 312-736-2534.