Opportunity For Free Bicycle Basics Classes

DULUTH, Minn. — The Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota is visiting Duluth, offering up free bike riding lessons to promote safe rides.

The Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota or, BikeMN visited Duluth to offer free classes for folks interested in getting refreshed on bike skills. The goal is to eventually pass along that information to kids learning how to ride. They covered everything from properly using brakes, to fitting a helmet, and also properly getting on a bike.
Officials at BikeMN told Fox 21 with brushing up on these skills, people can explore lots of new possibilities.

“It’s absolutely amazing to see people gain a new skill and the confidence that goes along with it. I think one of the biggest things that’s exciting to me is opening up opportunities that they wouldn’t otherwise have through that transportation. So, whether it’s being able to go to a job or go do errands. Or even getting on the trails for exercise and fun.” said CJ Lindor Education Manager, BikeMN.

Some of the people attending the class already work with mountain bikes every day. The Executive Director for Cyclists of Gitchee Gumee Shores said there are a few crucial steps to making lifelong cyclists.

“Starting kids, giving them the tools they need to do this safely at a young age is the best way to create lifelong riders. Cycling is a lifelong sport; anybody can do it. All we need to do is give the kids the tools they need, and the opportunity to do it.” explained Ansel Schimpff, Executive Director of COGGS.

Bike MN also offers free Adult-Learn-to Ride class. Participants get their own bike, bike lock, and lights after the
classes are complete. They have upcoming adult classes on October 2nd and 9th at the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.