Past Event

Hubs & Spokes: Threading the Wheels of Chicago's Bike Culture Ride & Panel Discussion

When Chicago cyclists take to the road they do so with a fistful of reasons, and a variety of fabricated parts, poised to move through the urban environment under human-pedaled power. Between the personal and the political, the practical and the philosophical, the working bikes and the racing bikes, Chicago’s cycling culture spans myriad reasons, ideologies, and neighborhoods.

Much has been said and unsaid about "bike culture" – what it looks like, where it comes from, and how it might function in an urban environment. But prior to this, we might recall our first-ever bike ride. We might recall any number of reasons we took to two wheels – for fun, for exploration, for transportation.

So, how does an everyday activity come to influence identity? Do people from diverse backgrounds, viewpoints, and neighborhoods classify themselves as cyclists, and what would it mean to do so? What is "bike culture?" Moreover, is it important or necessary to engage in these conversations and why?

This panel discussion is part of the Chicago Public Radio Presents series, produced by Chicago Public Radio in partnership with the Illinois Humanities Council and Active Transportation Alliance.

Panelists:

  • Zack Furness, author of One Less Car: Bike Culture and the Politics of Cycling – Temple University Press (moderator)
  • Adolfo Hernandez, Director of Advocacy, Active Transportation Alliance
  • Kathy Schubert, Chicago Bicycle Activist
  • Alex Wilson, founder of West Town Bikes and Ciclo Urbano

The "Hubs & Spokes: Threading the Wheels of Chicago’s Bike Culture" ride is $10-$15/person, which includes the picnic meal.

"Hubs & Spokes" ticket details:

  • $15/general admission
  • $12/Chicago Public Radio members
  • $12/Victory Gardens subscribers
  • $12/Hyde Park Art Center members
  • $12/Active Transportation Alliance members
  • $10/students (with ID)

Purchase tickets online or call (312) 948-4600.

This event is presented in partnership with Chicago Public Radio, Active Transportation Alliance, and the Hyde Park Art Center.

"Hubs & Spokes: Threading the Wheels of Chicago’s Bike Culture" is taking place as part of the Hyde Park Art Center’s celebration of its 70th anniversary, 70 Days for 70 Years, taking place April 25-July 4, 2009. For more information, visit their website.