People who drive cars and trucks have had "drivers education" in the form of a written drivers test and test drive with a DMV evaluator to make sure you know the rules of the road and can safely operate an automobile. Some may also take a formal Drivers Ed Class.

 

On the other hand, anyone of almost any age can hop on a bike, and once they learn to balance and steer, can go out on the open road and ride wherever, whenever, and however they please, figuring out what to do or not do on their own; on-the-job training if you will. This leads to lots of different behaviors, which confuses motorists and puts the cyclist in danger.

 

We at WashCo Bikes (and the League of American Bicyclists) think there is a better way,  and that is to get some formal and comprehensive training including traffic laws as they pertain to cyclists, understanding the 5 Levels of Crash Prevention (and reduce the probability of a crash by up to 90%), learn hazard avoidance maneuvers, and a lot of other cyclist specific and useful information.

 

That description fits our "Confidence in Traffic- Drivers Ed for Cyclists" clinics. This not a how to ride clinic, but a clinic on how to "drive" your bike. This training developed by the League of American Bicyclists, is consistent throughout the  US.., so if all cyclists rode in accordance with these teachings, we would be safer, and motorists would know what to expect.

This clinic is meant to teach the concepts and skills of cooperative cycling - how to "drive" your bike in traffic the safest way possible. Learn the 5 Levels of Crash Prevention, hazard avoidance skills, and get some good information aout riding in general, basic bike maintenance, etc. You will also receive a Smart Cycling manual to keep.

 

This is not a course to learn to ride your bike - you need to be able to do that before attending this clinic.

 

The clinic has two parts, as follows:

 

1. Online instruction and testing which you can complete at your convenience. you must complete this portion with and 80% or higher overall score.

 

2. On the bike instruction, each session will last 3-4 hours, depending on how many students, general skill levels, etc. You will need to bring your bike in working order, a helmet (required), and any water/snacks you might need. Also, dress for the weather. Most of the session will take place in a parking lot, where we will learn and practice skills and techniques. We will then take a group ride on local streets where you can practice the skills and apply the knowledge you have just learned in real life situations. We will end with you filling out a feedback form and the instructor will fill our a road test score sheet (yes, a report card).

 

Registration for each clinic ends 7 days prior to the clinic, to allow time for the student to complete the on-line education and testing. Class sizes are limited, so sign up early to guarantee a spot.

 

Pricing for this class is $75.00. On the registration page, once filled out, you will be taken to the payment page.

 

 

 

If you would like to schedule a clinic for your family, friends, or group, email classes@washcobikes.org

 

Dates of Smart Cycling Classes      

 

 Watch this space for 2025 classes.

 

All clinics to be held at the Willow Creek Park and Ride, 241 Edgeway Drive, Hillsboro, OR.

 

Time TBD, but typically 9am start, 1pm end.

 

Minimum of 3 students per clinic; Maximum of 6 students without prior arrangement. 

 

Email: classes@washcobike.org for more information.

 

Sign up and pay online by clicking the Register button below...

 

Pricing for this class is $75.00. Once you have filled out the registration page, you will be taken to the payment page.

 

 

 

  

 

WashCo Bikes hosts and stages skills and safety bike rodeos for schools, churches, recreation centers and municipalities, specialty events and at festivals.

What is a Bike Rodeo? A chance for people of all ages to improve their safety and bicycle skills through fun education activities that include following games, foot down races, slow races, obstacle courses, turns and stops.

We organize our rodeos to fit all age groups, up to 50 people and can last from 60-120 minutes.

 

We provide instructors, equipment, programming light repair and bike safety checks, free helmets, lights and written educational material.

 

Pricing for a rodeo is $250.00. Once you have filled out the registration page, you will be taken to the payment page. You will then be contacted to arrange a

date and time for your event. 

 

                       

 

 

 

Want to learn how to adjust, clean, and repair your bicycle in a friendly, encouraging and instructive atmosphere? Bring your bike to one of our Bike Repair Clinics, and our qualified instructors will teach you how to maintain and fix it!

 

Learn how to:

• Fix flat tires
• Adjust seats & handlebars
• Adjust the derailleur
• Adjust brakes
• Clean the chain
• Repair and replace the chain
• Check for broken spokes
• Remove wheels for transport
• And much more!

 

All clinics are held at the 

 

Washington County Community Bicycle Center

137 NE 3rd Ave,

Hillsboro, OR 97214

 

Clinics are free, but there is a $20.00 registration deposit to hold your place.  After the clinic, this can be refunded to you or converted to a donation to WashCo Bikes -- your choice! Indicate which you want when you sign in at the clinic.

 

Grab a friend and have some fun!

 

 

General bike clinic

137 NE 3rd Ave,

Hillsboro, OR.

 

2nd Sunday of month

10:30-noon

 

Watch this space for 2025 dates

 

Women Only bike clinic

137 NE 3rd Ave.

Hillsboro, OR. 97124

 

3rd Sunday of month

10:30-noon

 

Watch this space for 2025 dates.

 

This class is for those new to bicycling. It includes learning to balance, braking, and signaling.

To be in this class you must be at least  6 years old. This is usually a one on one class-however siblings

are welcome to join. This class usually lasts about an hour.

 

This class is also for those who have been away from bicycling for a time and would like a refresher. 

Any age for this class. It is a one on one class and lasts about an hour. 

 

The cost for this class is $25.00 per student.

More than one student can be in this class-

if you have a sibling or friend who would like to learn as well.

 

Register and pay using the button below. Our cycling instructor, Steve Boughton will be contacting you soon.