Bike Chicago: Benefit the city and yourself
May kicks off Chicago’s summer celebration of healthy, environmentally friendly and wallet-conscious living known as Bike Chicago. Through five months, more than 100 events will promote biking in the city as a way to get in shape and protect the environment, making Chicago a greener city.
Now in its 19th year, Bike Chicago includes several premier events that attract thousands of active participants. On Memorial Day weekend, Chicagoans can enjoy Bike the Drive, a 15-mile ride from Grant Park down Lake Shore Drive. Proceeds benefit local charities.
On June 19, Chicago challenges commuters to get out of their cars and onto bikes with the Bike to Work Rally. A full day of activities, including live bands, kicks off at Daley Plaza, where riders learn that ditching their cars can save 238 million gallons of gas annually.
Join up to 10,000 cyclists on July 11 and 12 for the McDonald’s L.A.T.E Ride, an overnight 25-mile ride through Chicago. The city’s biggest charity bike ride benefits Friends of the Parks, a park- and forest-preservation organization.
Named the best criterium race in the U.S., the Chicago Criterium will be July 26 in Grant Park. Visitors can watch professional cyclists from around the world race down the streets of Chicago. There's also an outdoor festival and sports expo.
As the summer winds down, Chicagoans can participate in the Sept. 13 Boulevard Lakefront Tour. Cyclists can choose a 15-, 35- or 62-mile route through the city, visiting parks and green spaces in Chicago. A post-ride festival at Midway Plaisance with food an entertainment caps off the journey.
With more than 100 events scheduled, Bike Chicago is sure to offer something for everyone.
- by D.J. Siegel, Chicago Reporter for HelloMetro
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