Chicago City Wire

The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) announced the 2024 schedule for its Learn to Ride program, offering free bike riding classes for adults and children throughout the summer. The classes are led by the SAFE (Streets Are for Everybody) Ambassadors, an outreach team within CDOT focused on traffic safety and active transportation options. The program caters to all experience levels, from beginners to those looking to refine their skills.

“We are thrilled to continue offering the Learn to Ride program to Chicagoans of all ages," said CDOT Commissioner Tom Carney. "There’s never been a better time to ride a bike in Chicago. By investing in infrastructure and programs like Learn to Ride, we are committed to making cycling a safer, more accessible, and convenient option for everyone, regardless of age or experience level."

The summer series begins on June 1 at four Chicago Park District locations. Each two-hour class is available in both English and Spanish. The classes are divided into three levels: Beginner Learn to Ride, Skill-Builder Learn to Ride, and Road Ride.

Beginner Learn to Ride is for individuals who do not know how to ride a bike or need a refresher course. These classes take place on a car-free course.

Skill-Builder Learn to Ride supports those with basic riding experience or who have completed the beginner course. It covers skills such as signaling, turning, and interacting with other bikers or pedestrians. This class also occurs on a car-free course.

Road Ride involves SAFE Ambassadors leading students on city streets to help them navigate everyday biking situations. Topics include route planning, types of bike lanes, and positioning on streets.

Classes will be held at Horner Park, McKinley Park, Riis Park, Washington Park (Beginner and Skill-Builder), and Seward Park (Road Ride). Participants will receive a free helmet while supplies last. Classes are open to adults and teens aged 13-17 if space permits.

For more information about the 2024 schedule or class registration details, visit Chicago.gov/SAFEAmbassadors or email 312SAFEbike@gmail.com.

In partnership with the Chicago Park District, CDOT also offers Learn to Ride classes for children aged 6-12. Junior Ambassadors will facilitate these two-hour sessions during the day camp programs at various parks from June 11 through August 8.

Parents must provide an appropriately sized bicycle for their child; helmets will be supplied by the Ambassadors. Registration prioritizes children already enrolled in day camps but opens up afterward based on availability.

To request a children's class slot or obtain further details, visit Chicago.gov/SAFEAmbassadors or email KidsLearnToRide@gmail.com.

The Learn to Ride initiative is part of CDOT's broader efforts to promote safe cycling across Chicago through improved infrastructure informed by the Chicago Cycling Strategy. In 2023 alone, CDOT installed over 50 miles of new bikeways including protected lanes and neighborhood greenways—record-setting achievements that have contributed significantly towards increased citywide bike ridership since 2019.