Riders with a cause can donate old bikes, parts
It's time for all your old and unused bikes to hit the streets.
Residents can donate extra or unused bikes -- even broken bikes and bike parts -- to organizations that will pass them along to youth in need.
The bike drive is part of Rush-Copley Medical Center's Rolling on the River, a cycling event that aims to protect and improve the Illinois environment.
The ride, in its second year, takes place Saturday in Yorkville.
Organizers hope to collect about 500 bikes. Bicycles can be dropped off from 6 a.m. to noon Saturday at the Hoover Outdoor Education Center, 11285 Fox Road in Yorkville. Volunteers will accept donations.
"We're just trying to help keep bikes out of the landfills and put them in the hands of those who use them," said Marise Robbins-Forbes, event director.
Early drop-off also is available at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 10104 Immanuel Road in Yorkville.
Bikes can be left under the covered drive at the building's north end. Church office hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.
All donations will be passed along to The Recyclery in Evanston, Blackstone Bicycle Works in Chicago and Working Bikes Cooperative in Chicago, which provide bicycles to those in need.
"They do amazing work," Robbins-Forbes said. "It's a nice tie between the environment and cyclists, a way to give a little back and share the joy of riding."
This year's ride will include more than 425 participants. Bikers choose among several one-day rides, which start at the Hoover Outdoor Education Center.
A post-ride party features an organic cookout, environmental fest, entertainment and activities including hiking, canoeing, kayaking and camping.
If you go
What: Bike donation drive, part of the Rolling on the River cycling event for the Illinois environment
When: Drop-off is 6 a.m. to noon Saturday; ride-day registration is 6 to 10:30 a.m.
Where: Hoover Education Center, 11285 Fox Road, Yorkville
Cost: Ride-day registration is $70 for ages 13 and up
Details: Routes range from 15 to 100 miles along the Fox River
Info: rollingriverride.org