Announcing “Read & Ride,” a New Offering in Partnership With BFF Bikes
By Allison Yates
Big News for Summer: We’re Partnering with BFF Bikes
This summer, we’re thrilled to announce we’re expanding what it means to “Read & Run.” We’re so excited to share that Read & Run Chicago is partnering with BFF Bikes to offer biking tour options during our Summer Signature Events—our book-themed guided runs where stories take place. That’s right—you’ll now have the option to bike the route instead of run.
BFF Bikesis a woman-owned, full-service neighborhood bike shop. They also offer robust training programs, group rides, and community-focused events like history bike tours and more. We couldn’t think of a better partnership to continue striving to make our programming accessible to the Chicagoans who love to explore the city using movement and stories.
Why biking?
BFF Bikes storefront in Wicker Park.
We know that running doesn’t feel accessible—or appealing—for everyone, all the time. We’ve always welcomed other forms of movement (scooter, skateboard, roller blades, wheelchair—whatever gets you moving to an 11:00 minute per mile pace, as I always say), but we know that when routes are built for running, it’s not always the most ideal circumstances to be the odd one out.
This summer, we’re especially inviting folks to bike our events who might be:
Training for a fall marathon and looking for cross-training or recovery days
Curious about our events, but hesitant to run with a group
Simply more of a cyclist than a runner
This partnership is about making sure that as many Chicagoans as possible have access exploring the city using movement. Same events, same community—just a different way to move through the city.
What to expect
The biking option will be designed for beginner/intermediate riders, designed to feel welcoming while still giving you a a chance to exercise.
Speed: ~12–14 mph
Pre-ride briefing: BFF Bikes cover ride safety, the route, and everything you need to know before you roll out
Each ride will be led in collaboration with the Lisa and Gillian of BFF Bikes, who know Chicago streets (and bike culture) inside and out.
Limited spots
To keep the bike tour option experience safe and intentional, bike spots will be capped at 20 riders per event. You’ll be able to select a “Read & Ride Ticket”— the biking option—on the same ticket link. No separate registration required!
What to bring
If you’re riding with BFF Bikes, make sure you have:
A bike—We’ll make sure to note where Divvy stops are near the start/end location
A helmet
Phone and ID
Same experience, new options
We’re so excited that with our new collaboration with BFF Bikes we’ll now be able to give more Chicagoans a chance to be part of our love of using movement and stories to explore the city.