Get In Gear For Chicago Bike Week
By Staff in Arts & Entertainment on Jun 12, 2014 3:30PM
Now that the city has officially thawed, it’s a great time for commuters to ditch the car or Ventra for a few days and try to work off those last few pounds of polar vortex-induced weight. And what better way to work a little exercise and fresh spring air into your day than participating in Chicago’s Bike Week, kicking off this Friday June 13th. The increasingly popular event is expected to draw new cyclists and from all over the city who will be peddling in the bike lane for the first time. For those new to biking in the city or avid bikers looking for ways to kick off the weeklong celebration, there are plenty of events this weekend to help cyclists get tuned up and hit the road.
Bike Commuter Challenge
Those looking to get their coworkers excited for Bike Week can enlist their office in the Bike Commuter Challenge. Teams of all sizes can track their rides all week for the chance to win prizes. For added motivation and office morale, teams can check their standings and start friendly completions between other offices in their commuter categories.
For more info on starting a team, along with plenty of commuting tips, visit their website.
BFF Bikes Commuter Clinic
On Friday June 13 this new Bucktown bike shop tailored towards women riders is hosting a happy hour for new riders ready to take the commuter plunge. They’ll cover the basics like what to wear, how to securely park your bike and what to pack in your messenger bag. All riders are welcomed and encouraged to bring a friend.
BFF Bikes, 2113 W. Armitage, 6 p.m.
Schubas Bike Bash and BBQ
Saturday June 14th Schubas is hosting a bike drive, raffle and barbeque benefiting the Working Bikes Cooperative. Attendees can bring their bikes in for a check-up while enjoying Revolution beer and food specials. Bikers can also recycle an old bike in exchange for raffle tickets to win a new bike from The Bike Lane.
Schubas, 3159 N. Southport Ave. 12 p.m. - 4 .p.m
Chicago Bike Week runs through Friday June 20 and has additional events and incentives for riders running throughout the week. Those without a bike can also get in on the fun, with Divvy stations continuing to pop-up all over the city. So grab your helmet, map out your fastest route and check with Active Transportation Alliance or your closest bike shop for expert tips on how to be ready for the road.
By: Gina Provenzano