Get Ready For Biking Season With Chicago Bike Swap 2012

By Chuck Sudo in Arts & Entertainment on Feb 29, 2012 10:30PM

To say this winter has been better for bicycling than previous winters is an understatement of the highest order. We're close to midsummer biking shape and spring isn't for another three weeks.

For many cyclists, the Chicago Bike Swap is as sure a sign of spring as waiting for baseball tickets to go on sale, putting away the sweaters and garbage trucks roaming the streets to remove the season's dibs markers. Over 50 vendors— including bike shops, cycling non-profits and individuals&,dash;will be on hand offering deep discounts on bicycles, bike parts and tools, bike repairs, cycling clothing, and upcoming cycling events like May's Bike the Drive and the Four Star Bike Tour.

There will be demonstrations on winter biking and family biking, and bicycle-themed games and activities for the kiddies. Caribou Coffee will be serving up hot java and Goose Island will cater lunch for the event. (Goose Island is also hosting an after party at their Clybourn brewpub from 5:30-7:30 p.m.) If you're looking to swap your bike for another one, an extra $5 on top of your admission gets you that privilege. If you can't sell your bike and still want to donate it to soemthing worthwhile, The Recyclery, West Town Bikes and the Working Bikes Cooperative will be on site to accept your donations.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Active Transportation Alliance's mission of advocating for the city better and safer for biking, users of public transportation and pedestrians. The Chainlink and Chicago Bike Winter are also beneficiaries of the event. May we ask those of you reading this to consider becoming Active Transportation Alliance members for $30 at the swap? If not, admission to the swap is $10 ($5 for ATA members).

The Active Transportation Alliance's Chicago Bike Swap is this Saturday, Marc 3, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the Pulaski Park Fieldhouse (1419 W. Blackhawk St.) Admission is cash only.