When we launched our Bike School in April with Learn to Ride classes, we weren’t quite sure what the response would be. Now midway through the season, I receive inquiries from people interested in registering nearly daily.

What’s the most exciting part? No two students are the same! Women, men and children of all ages and cultures are learning to ride through Bicycle Colorado’s Bike School.

Bridging ages and cultures

Since April of this year, 61 youth and adults have taken group or private lessons with the Bike School. Students have ranged from 4-77 years old and originate from all over the world, including the United States, Mexico, India, Sudan, Ethiopia, Iraq, Afghanistan, Myanmar and the Philippines. The largest age bracket of new riders is adults 31-50 years old.

Bicycle Colorado has also partnered with both the African Community Center and Groundwork Denver to organize classes for their clients, resettled refugees and Spanish-speaking adults.

We want to thank New Belgium Brewing, Alchemy and Primal for generously donating time, space and resources to support the Bike School’s premiere season and all of our students.

Don’t take it from me…

Here is what our students have to say about the Bike School:

“I was so happy to finally find the Bike School. They offer lessons for both adults and children, and I loved that the classes were kept to a small size.  The money spent was absolutely well worth it, too.” 

“The best part of the lesson was watching my son be confident and SMILE! A nice change from crying and giving up.”

“The instructors were friendly and encouraging and did a nice job of tailoring the instruction for each person in the class since we were all starting at different ability levels.”

“I now understand the phrase, ‘it’s like learning to ride a bike’.”

“I was surprised by how quickly you all got the kids riding! It was seriously amazing to watch.”

“While riding a bike does not seem like a big deal, it becomes a HUGE deal when you don’t know how.”

So what’s next?

Many students have expressed that they are eager for more education, including commuter safety classes. We hope to expand Bike School programs for the coming season, and we want your input.

Are you interested in commuter safety classes? Should we offer guided group rides? Do you know of community organizations we should connect with? Please comment and let us know what you’d like to see next from Bicycle Colorado’s Bike School!