aims to empower youth through bicycle education, leadership, and life skills development.
Blackstone Bicycle Works
YOUTH EDUCATION
We empower youth from Chicago's South Side by teaching bike mechanics, job skills, and life skills to individuals ages 8-18 through our after-school and Earn-A-Bike programs.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
We engage and educate the local community while advocating for safer pedestrian infrastructure through our Open Shop programming.
EARN-A-BIKE
FREE AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
TUESDAYS & THRUSDAY | 3:30-6PM SEPTEMBER 17 - DECEMBER 12
For youth ages 9-18 from Woodlawn and South Side neighborhoods!
Participants will:
LEARN BIKE MECHANICS & SAFETY
TAKE GROUP RIDES & FIELD TRIPS
CREATE BIKE-ART
RECEIVE HOMEWORK TUTORING SUPPORT
EARN THEIR VERY OWN BIKE
Snacks Provided!
CONTACT: BRUCE WINSTON, PROGRAM MANAGER - YOUTH EXPERIENCE
YOUTH
CYCLING
CLUB
AGES 14 - 18
LIMITED TO 10 PARTICIPANTS.
SEPT. 20 - DEC. 13
WEDNESDAYS 4-6P.M.
advanced riding techniques, sports nutrition, bike mechanics, and competitive cycling
PARTICIPANTS WILL LEARN:
OTHER ACTIVITIES INCLUDE:
group rides, field trips, and guest speakers.
Snacks provided!
Group Rides
Safe Routes, Great Destinations!
During summer, we lead a group ride every Saturday, leaving Experimental Station at noon to various destinations. We ride at a mild pace, and helmets are required.
Check out our past route:
Community Classes
Build your bike knowledge with our free classes!
Fix A Flat
60 minutes
This interactive workshop teaches essential skills, from pinpointing punctures to safely changing tubes. Perfect for cyclists of all levels, it will equip you to tackle roadside repairs independently. Don't let a flat derail your ride!
Basic Brakes
60 minutes
This hands-on class will teach you how to replace brake cables on your bicycle. Gain practical skills in identifying worn-out cables, removing old ones, and installing new ones efficiently and safely. Perfect for cyclists eager to enhance their bike maintenance know-how.
Cleaning Your Bike
60 minutes
Learn essential techniques to clean your bicycle effectively without causing damage. From selecting the right cleaning products to safely washing different bike components, you'll gain the skills to maintain your bike's appearance and performance.
Chains
45 minutes
You'll learn how to replace a bicycle chain and assess chain wear. Gain practical skills in identifying when your chain needs replacing, removing the old chain, and installing a new one correctly. Perfect for cyclists looking to enhance their bike maintenance knowledge.
Changing Grips
60 minutes
You'll learn the step-by-step process of replacing handlebar grips on your bicycle. Discover the tools needed and techniques for safely removing old grips without damaging your bike. You'll also explore different types of handlebar grips and how to select the right ones for your riding style.
How to make your bike more comfortable
60 minutes
Learn practical tips and techniques to adjust your bike for optimal fit and comfort, including saddle position, handlebar adjustments, and choosing the right components. We'll also cover how to address common discomfort issues such as numb hands or sore back.
Our first session of community classes has been completed. Check back later to sign up for the next session.
