Overview
Behold the bike! Bikes have been in use since the early 19th century, and subsequently became very popular later in the century. Today, the bicycle is in use recreationally, for commuting, and as a hobby. Bitney’s Biking class, which has happened every few years, will address several different aspects of the bicycle.
Bike Bitney Class
The Bitney College Prep High School bicycle class practices the 2 R’s of cycling: Riding and Repairing. The purpose of the class is to enjoy cycling, whether road riding, mountain biking, riding close to school, off-site riding, cleaning our bikes, cycling movies, repair principles, maintenance, and any other aspect of riding deemed appropriate. We will ride on Thursdays, mostly mountain biking, but sometimes road riding. On Tuesdays we will learn bicycle maintenance and rebuilding.
Students need to have access to a mountain bike in relatively good condition, or at least safe and sturdy. All students need a helmet as well, and should bring a water bottle and basic repair equipment, as often repairs are needed on the road or trail. Students should be prepared to ride on Thursdays, unless otherwise instructed. Rides can be anywhere from 2 miles to 6 miles, so students should be relatively conditioned: not Lance Armstrong, but not a couch potato either. Parents must sign a liability release, as bicycle riding involves inherent risk, including, but not limited to, traffic accidents and crashes.
Students also need a bike in need of restoration. We will be rebuilding this bike, piece by piece. This can be a decent bike or can be a complete mess. The class has a number of bikes from which to harvest parts. However, if purchases need to be made (tubes, cables, etc.), this cost will be borne by student.
When not riding or repairing, we will visit a local shop for repair demonstrations, visit a local frame-building shop, watch cycling movies, and perhaps even go on a field trip.
Evaluation
The course grade is based on participation and attitude. Students need to be engaged in what is happening on a particular day. A score of 1 – 10 will be given each day: a 10 for students who are engaged, interested and have positive attitudes.
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