Urban Cycling Techniques

Course Description

Whether running errands, commuting to work, or getting exercise, urban cyclists of all sorts will appreciate this course! We have designed Urban Cycling Techniques (UCT) to teach cyclists how to interact safely and positively with city traffic.  This class is perfect for those who already know how to ride their bike, but want to gain mastery over the many situations that can arise while biking in the urban and suburban environment. 

Essential Biking Knowledge is a PRE-REQUISITE for this class. 

UCT is based on the League of American Bicyclists Smart Cycling curriculum 

Learn how to:

• Properly fit your bike and helmet
• Handle your bike confidently and effectively
• Position yourself on the road to avoid and deter the mistakes of other users
• Communicate effectively with other road users
• Apply emergency bike handling maneuvers to avoid a crash
• Apply traffic laws as they pertain to cyclists
• Choose the right gear for riding in variable conditions
• Understand dedicated bike infrastructure and when to use it
• Choose the best route to get you safely and efficiently to your destination

This class consists of bike handling drills and applying our urban riding theory to real road situations by riding with instructors and class participants through our built environment. This will give you the opportunity to practice trail etiquette, intersection scenarios, lane positioning, and more - all while having fun with diverse learners and instructors.  

Pre-requisites: Essential Biking Knowledge is a prerequisite for this on-bike course.

Sign up for UCT if you can:

• Comfortably ride short distances with one hand on the handlebars
• Stop quickly without losing control of your bike
• Shift gears and choose the right gear for the terrain

If you have difficulty with any of these skills, please consider joining us for our Basic Cycling Techniques class. 

Type of bike this class is for/ how to prepare:

• Bring a traditional or electric bike in good working order (brakes working and tires pumped up)
• Bring a CPSC approved helmet. 
• Bring snacks, water, and lunch. In the office there is a fridge to store your lunch and a microwave. 
• Be sure to wear weather-appropriate clothing, as we will be outside for the full day, rain or shine.
• If you are unable to bring a bike to class one can be provided for you: email adultclasses@cascade.org to ask about bike availability before you register for the class. We cannot guarantee that it will have similar components to your personal bike.

Class Size: min 5, max 9

Youth attendance: There are no youth permitted at this class. See more information here 

Other classes you may be interested in: Brake System Maintenance, Chains & Derailleurs, Roadside Repair, Essential Biking Knowledge, Basic Cycling Techniques; 

Contacts: adultclasses@cascade.org

Edited on 2/28/23