Chicago City Wire

The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) has announced the commencement of its 2025 summer Learn to Ride program, offering free bike-riding classes for adults, teens, and children. These sessions are facilitated by the SAFE (Streets Are for Everybody) Ambassadors, a team dedicated to promoting traffic safety and active transportation in Chicago. The program caters to various skill levels, from beginners to those seeking to enhance their biking skills.

“Learn to Ride is one of our most popular summer programs because it’s hands-on, welcoming, and empowers people to embrace biking as a safe, fun, and practical way to get around,” stated CDOT Commissioner Tom Carney. “We’re proud to offer these classes free of charge and to continue building a more bike-friendly Chicago through education, outreach, and infrastructure.”

The adult classes will begin on June 4 at five locations within the Chicago Park District. Participants can choose from three class types: Beginner Learn to Ride for novices or those needing a refresher; Skill-Builder Learn to Ride for riders aiming to improve their skills; and Road Ride focusing on real-world navigation on city streets. Classes will be held at Horner Park, McKinley Park, Riis Park, Washington Park, with Road Rides starting at Seward Park.

Classes are available in English and Spanish. Pre-registered participants receive a complimentary helmet while supplies last. Bicycles are provided at no cost though personal bikes can also be used. Registration is required due to limited spots.

For children aged 6-12 years old, the program runs from June 18 through August 14 in collaboration with the Chicago Park District. Classes occur weekly at Portage Park, Schreiber Park, McKinley Park on Wednesdays; Humboldt Park and Washington Park on Thursdays. Priority registration is given to children enrolled in Day Camp programs.

Parents must supply an appropriately sized bicycle for their child; however helmets are provided free of charge by the Ambassadors who ensure proper fitting during lessons which accommodate up eight kids per session under parental supervision onsite.

The initiative aligns with CDOT's broader mission since 2023 which includes adding nearly 100 miles of bikeways emphasizing low-stress routes such as neighborhood greenways protected lanes enhancing cycling accessibility across age groups abilities throughout Chicago informed by community-driven strategies outlined within their Cycling Strategy framework available online via city website resources detailing ongoing projects initiatives related towards expanding network infrastructure furthering equitable safe inviting environment cyclists alike citywide basis overall efforts underway towards achieving goal making biking viable transport option residents visitors alike