JEFFERSON PARK — Bike 45 will celebrate the opening of Cosmic Bikes in Jefferson Park with its first ride of the season set for Saturday.
Many Chicago bicycle commuters rejoiced at the news that the owners of the former Rapid Transit Cycleshops had found a new home in Jefferson Park after high rents pushed them out of Wicker Park in December.
Owners Justyna Frank and Chris Stodder will host an open house from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday at Cosmic Bikes, 4641 N. Milwaukee Ave., giving bicycle lovers a go-to place for gear, repairs and advice.
The 8- to-10-mile ride will leave at 9 a.m. Saturday from Wilson Park, 4630 N. Milwaukee Ave., and stop at Cosmic Bikes for a sneak peek at the store, which will include a repair shop.
After the ride, bicyclists plan to gather at Fischman's Liquors for a celebratory drink. The neighborhood watering hole plans to close in July because of a rent dispute.
Ald. John Arena (45th) founded Bike 45 to promote biking and bike safety in Jefferson Park and parts of Portage Park, Gladstone Park, Old Irving Park, Norwood Park and Forest Glen.
Bicyclists of all ages are welcome to ride, but children younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult and adult riders may accompany no more than 3 children per adult rider.
For more information, message Bike 45 on Facebook or email bike45thward@gmail.com.
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