GEARs - the Greater Eugene Area Riders, is partnering with the City of Eugene to offer classes for all bicyclists from beginner to advanced level cyclists that teach how to bicycle effectively and safely as a vehicle on the road.
“A bicycle is a vehicle under the law. Cyclists need to know how to ride safely and responsibly as a vehicle using the same system of streets as motorized vehicles” says Shane Rhodes, 1 of 10 League Certified Instructors in the Eugene Area.
The classes follow the curriculum of the League of American Bicyclists and include training on how to ride safely and legally in traffic or on paths. Skills like emergency safety maneuvers to avoid crashes, traffic skills, and the laws governing bicycle riding are covered along with commute planning and basic bike mechanics.
The Course Schedule
Street Skills 1 -This 3-hour class is recommended for bicyclists over age 16 and of all skill levels. It offers training needed to ride safely and legally in traffic or on the trail. Bicycle safety checks, laws pertaining to bicyclists, and techniques for avoiding crashes are part of this curriculum. Take before Street Skills 2 for a complete course.
| Street Skills 1 | August 22 F, 6-9p $20 | |
| September 26 F, 6-9p $20 | ||
| October 22 W, 6-9p $20 | ||
| November 6 Th, 6-9p $20 | ||
| January 22 Th, 6-9p $20 | ||
Street Skills 2 -This 6-hour class follows up on Street Skills 1 (required) with on-bike skills, crash avoidance techniques and basic bicycle mechanics. After completion of both classes riders will have the League of American Bicyclists Road 1 Certification.
| Street Skills 2 | August 23 Sa, 9-3p $30 | |
| September 27 Sa, 9-3p $30 | ||
| October 25 Sa, 9-3p $30 | ||
| November 8 Sa, 9-3p $30 | ||
| Jan 24 Sa, 9-3p $30 | ||
Commuter Skills -This class is for adult cyclists who wish to explore the possibility of commuting to work or school by bike. This three hour course covers topics including route selection, bicycle choice, dealing with cargo and clothing, bike parking, lighting, reflection, and foul weather riding. Location: the Lyle Room at 858 Pearl Street.
| Commuter Skills | July 15 Tu, 6-9p $25 | |
Kids 1 This class is designed for parents and young children grades K-3. Instructors explain how to teach a child to ride a bike, including a bicycle safety check, helmet fitting and bike sizing. Price is for one child and one parent. River House, 301 N Adams St.
| Kids 1 | July 19 Sa, 9a-12p $20 | |
