From Group Ride to Collaborative Mission for Safer Cycling in Chicago

As part of its growing advocacy for safer streets and more inclusive cycling infrastructure, Blackstone Bicycle Works (BBW) has been expanding its partnerships and public engagement initiatives throughout Chicago. 

This summer, BBW took the lead in organizing ‘Fly The Co-op.’ This first-ever collaborative ride brought together five nonprofit bike shops across the city to celebrate community cycling, youth programs, and shared commitment to bike equity. 

On July 13, approximately 50 cyclists from all corners of Chicago joined the Fly The Co-op bikeride, where cyclists biked from one shop to the next to learn more about each nonprofit bike shop. Alex Valladares, BBW Program Manager, joined the ride along with Open Shop mechanic, Saul Espejel, and BBW youth Nigel.

This successful group ride was sparked when Alex met Faraz Hussain, a Working Bikes board member, at the Illinois Bike and Walk Summit earlier this year. From that initial conversation, Alex worked closely with all non-profit shop leaders to turn the idea into action.

“I was thrilled to see the enthusiasm and support from everyone involved. It was a true collaborative effort,” said Alex.

As a program of Experimental Station, BBW continues to grow its leadership in bike advocacy. Alex was recently nominated by the Governor’s Office as the only bike shop representative on the Zero Fatality Task Force, which works to eliminate traffic-related deaths in Illinois.

After the ride, conversations continued among riders and nonprofit bike shops about safety, infrastructure, and the need for ongoing collaboration. This year, Fly The Co-op has already built momentum and sparked interest in turning it into an annual tradition.