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RIDE RIVERSIDE SLOW ROLLS – YEAR 3 Join Ride Riverside for 4–5 miles of slow, social, family-friendly biking through our picturesque town. Rides now meet at Guthrie Park (green space south of the train station) at 6:00 pm every second Friday from April through October. Helmets are strongly recommended. Rides take place rain or shine. For severe weather updates, check Ride Riverside’s Facebook page.
We’re aiming for an even more rolling block-party vibe this year. Bring bubble machines, speakers (music appropriate for kids, please), and smiles. If you capture good video footage, please send it to us and we may share it on social media.
SAFETY RULES
• Stay behind the leaders with safety vests and police
• Stick together
• Stay to the right for oncoming traffic
• Parents must supervise children
• Be nice to drivers
We have police support at every ride, but roads remain open to traffic. Riders participate at their own risk.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT ARE THE RIDE DATES?
Second Friday of every month, April–October 2026
6:00 pm start at Guthrie Park (south of the train station)
2026 rides:
• April 10 – Ending at The Treehouse for goodie bags and exclusive discounts
• May 8 – Bike Month celebration with t-shirt giveaways, ending at Riverside Foods for free treats
• June 12 – Ending at Parks & Rec’s Concert in the Park
• July 10 – Playground Tour
• August 14 – Figure 8 route for the 8th Month
• September 11 – Back-to-School and Trustee and Village Staff Appreciation Ride
• October 9 – Halloween Ride and Food Drive (shorter route ending at sunset)
WHO CAN COME?
Ride Riverside Slow Rolls are family-friendly and suitable for riders of most ages and skill levels.
Children who ride independently and safely on a two-wheeled bicycle (typically age 5+) are welcome, as are children riding in trailers, cargo bikes, or child seats. Parents must supervise children and remind them to ride in a straight line. Ride leaders are not responsible for supervising young riders.
The group rides about 6–7 mph.
Dogs are welcome only if they ride in a bike trailer.
WHAT ABOUT OTHER WHEELS?
Children on training wheels usually cannot keep the pace of the group. Please place young riders in a trailer or child bike seat.
All forms of micromobility, including e-bikes, are welcome if they maintain the group’s relaxed pace and ride safely. Please no bicycle stunts.
DO I HAVE TO WEAR A HELMET?
Ride Riverside strongly recommends wearing a helmet whenever you ride. Helmets reduce the risk of brain injury and set a good example for children.
Most riders wear helmets. Bike lights and reflective gear are strongly encouraged, especially at dusk. Riverside becomes very dark at night. Bright or neon clothing is also helpful during daytime rides.
WHAT IS THE ROUTE?
Routes are typically posted a few days before each ride. They are 4–5 miles long and the group rides about 6–7 mph. Slow Rolls stay within Riverside's borders, and we do not cross intersections with stop lights. You do not need to memorize the route—we will be riding together as a group.
Rides typically last about one hour depending on pace and stops. If you cannot ride with us, check the route and come cheer the group on.
WHAT IF I DON’T HAVE A BIKE?
Ask a friend or check with the Ride Riverside group to see if someone can lend you one. Gears 2 You may offer a free rental for the ride if you call ahead. If you want to buy a bike, purchasing used is often the best value. Working Bikes, a Chicago nonprofit, sells inexpensive refurbished bicycles.
WHAT TIME SHOULD I ARRIVE?
Please arrive a couple of minutes early so we can start promptly with announcements at 6:00 pm.
DO I NEED TO REGISTER?
No registration is required. Just show up with your bike and helmet.
WHAT IF I CAN’T KEEP UP?
The ride moves at a relaxed 6–7 mph pace and we regroup regularly. If you fall behind, you are welcome to peel off and head home at any time.
WHAT IF MY BIKE HAS A MECHANICAL PROBLEM DURING THE RIDE?
If you have a flat tire or mechanical issue, ride marshals will do their best to assist. Riders should carry basic repair items. There are basic bike tools and a pump available outside the Riverside train station. Make sure your tires are properly inflated before riding.
CAN I JOIN OR LEAVE THE RIDE ALONG THE ROUTE?
Yes. You are welcome to meet the group along the route or leave early if needed.
ARE RESTROOMS AVAILABLE?
Restrooms are available inside the train station or at some of the ride destinations depending on the month.
WHERE SHOULD I PARK?
Street parking is available around Guthrie Park, though we encourage participants to arrive by bike when possible.
WHAT IF IT RAINS?
Rides generally take place rain or shine. In the case of severe weather, updates will be posted on the Ride Riverside Facebook page.
CAN LOCAL BUSINESSES PARTICIPATE?
Yes. Local businesses interested in hosting a ride stop, providing treats, or supporting the rides are encouraged to contact Ride Riverside.
HOW LONG DOES THE RIDE LAST?
Most rides last about one hour, depending on the route and number of stops.
IS THERE A WAY TO STAY UPDATED?
Follow Ride Riverside on Facebook and Instagram for route announcements, weather updates, and event photos.
HOW CAN I HELP?
Please get in touch. We always need ride marshals and volunteers.
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Event Venue
Guthrie Park, 90 Bloomingbank Rd, Riverside, IL 60546, United States
Tickets
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.
