Join Biketropolis, the Wheelmen and Chris McAuliffe, author of Cycling in Chicago (Images of America), as we pedal down memory lane to learn about our city's rich cycling history. We’ll start our journey at Daley Plaza, near locations where bicycling manufacturing once thrived, and discuss some of the top cycling events that took place in Chicago from the mid-1800s through the early 1900s. Throughout the tour, we will share and discuss vintage photos, product catalogs and brochures that help paint the picture of how popular cycling was during this time period. McAuliffe and Wheelmen member Carey Williams will share stories about this important time in history; and we will ride with Williams and his fellow Wheelmen, who will be on antique bicycles and dressed in period apparel. The carefully curated route will take us past the places where several prominent bike manufacturers and showrooms once stood, where indoor racing events took place, and along some of the routes of early outdoor-racing competitions.
Date: Saturday, August 17th 2019
Time: 9 am to 5 pm
Cost: $35 (Includes a donation to the Wheelmen)
Registration Link: https://historyofcycling.eventbrite.com
Departure location: Daley Plaza - 50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602 (under the Picasso)
Lunch: The Empanada Bike
Total distance round-trip: 35 miles
Average speed: 10-12 mph with rest stops planned along the way
Skill level: Moderate ride/no drop.
Gear: bike, lock, helmet, hydration, snacks and a camera.