The Washington Area Bicyclists Association and Bethesda Transportation Solutions are again hosting city cycling classes for those who want more confidence biking on busy Bethesda roads.
This time, all Capital Bikeshare members will get to register for free.
The class is set for Saturday, April 12, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad (5020 Battery Lane). It is reserved for Montgomery County residents and will include an “Intro to City Cycling” group that will ride on a nearby trail and a more advanced “Confident City Cycling” group that will learn how to maneuver on the street:
The “Confident City Cycling” group learns advanced bike handling maneuvers. These techniques will minimize harm in specific dangerous situations. This group goes for a ride on the roads and learns about bike infrastructure, lane control, communicating with drivers, and effective road behavior.
This class is for you if:
- You are at least 16 years old (16-17 year olds should be accompanied by an adult).
- You know how to ride a bike without assistance.
- You are a capable rider who wants to gain more confidence and ride on city streets safely and comfortably.
Students must bring their own bike and helmet. Helmet use is mandatory in the class, even if it’s not on the streets.
WABA, a regional group that advocates for better bike infrastructure, and BTS, a division of the Bethesda Urban Partnership are hosting the event to entice more people to ride bikes.
County officials unveiled a number of Capital Bikeshare stations last fall and are expecting the amount of riders to increase after an especially cold winter.
Not only can Capital Bikeshare members attend the class for free, but Bikeshare will waive usage fees for any rider who uses a red Bikeshare bike for the class. Make sure to have your membership key number or a receipt for your rental.
Registration is $5 for WABA members and $10 for non-members.
