Category: Bike Lanes

New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago are not usually considered bicycle-friendly cities. In fact, in a recent ranking of the 50 most bike-friendly cities, Chicago scored 161 out of 163. But the city says it is working on its image to change that point of view.

One of the most scenic points in Chicago is definitely Lakeshore Drive, which runs parallel to the lake. Each year in the early fall, Chicago’s Active Transportation Alliance sponsors a bike ride on Lakeshore Drive to raise awareness about active transportation called Bike The Drive.

All About the “Bike The Drive” Event

“Bike The Drive” is a 30 mile bike ride along Lakeshore Drive in downtown Chicago. The event started in the early 2000s and this year marks the 22nd edition. It is basically a casual and flat ride open to everyone who wants to do it.

So, if you’re looking for KOMs on Strava, this ride might not be for you. But if you’re seeking a fun, casual ride that allows you to take in views of the lake and the cityscape, then by all means you should sign up.

Cost and Registration for “Bike The Drive”

For a short ride, this is by no means a cheap ride but it is for an excellent cause. This ride is really about advocacy, so keep that in mind if you choose to register. That said, it costs $73.00 to register for the event. But if you’re a member of the city’s Active Transportation Alliance, then the fee is $63.00. If you are 18 and under, the price to register is $18.00.

Your fees give you access to Lakeshore Drive for the ride, which is closed to traffic during this event. It is fully supported with bike mechanics, rest areas with food and water, an event t-shirt, an event guide, and individual rider numbers.

For additional fees, riders can receive a limited edition 30 mile medal. If you upgrade to VIP status, you get access to luxury restrooms, a continental breakfast, and a complimentary beer from Revolution Brewing.

If you choose to only ride half the course (15 miles), you can still get a medal. There is also a young rider challenge. For those 18 and under, they can ride any part of the course and receive a medal. There’s also an option for a pancake breakfast.

The bulk of the money collected goes to the Active Transportation Alliance to fund “conditions for walking, biking, and public transit throughout Chicagoland.”

Last Thoughts

The “Bike The Drive” event looks like a fun and healthy way to spend the day. It is open to all levels of cyclists. However, the cost is high to just ride 30 miles, but this is a great way to experience Chicago whether you live there or you’re from out of town.

Keep in mind this is an advocacy ride, so it probably isn’t worth traveling a long distance to participate. That is unless you’ve never been to Chicago and you’re seeking a way to see the city in a unique way while putting in some easy miles in the early autumn.