DETROIT – It’s summertime in Metro Detroit, and many parents are looking for ways to keep their children engaged and active during the break.
Across the region, a variety of camps are currently operating, including some unique bike camps that are helping kids experience the joy and freedom of learning to ride a bike for the first time.
One popular program is the “Learn to Ride a Bike Summer Cycling Camp,” held at Detroit’s Lexus Velodrome.
This camp, now in its eighth year, is organized by the nonprofit Detroit Fitness Foundation to get kids on bikes and ready to ride.
Coach Luke Cavender has been part of the effort from the start.
He said many children in the area don’t get the chance to learn how to ride due to barriers such as a lack of safe sidewalks or even access to a bicycle.
This program provides that critical opportunity to gain the freedom that comes with biking.
Children of all ages from across Metro Detroit come to the camp, where they warm up their bodies and learn the basics under the guidance of experienced coaches.
Just three days a week of camp is enough for most young riders to acquire the skills they need.
“It’s just a sense of, like, freeness and freedom,” said Owen Ho, a camper at the event. This freedom, he said, grows with every pedal pushed and every new skill gained.
Despite the inevitable bumps and falls along the way, the campers are encouraged to get back up and keep pedaling.
Jace Dawson, another camper, shared his motivation, saying, “I wanted to learn how to do [it] without no training wheels.”
Only two days into camp, Jace has already left his training wheels behind and is confidently biking around the course, expressing happiness with his progress.
The camp’s success is evident. When it started just two days ago, none of the kids knew how to ride a bike.
Now, they have made significant progress, gaining confidence and joy in mastering this new skill.
In addition to the summer cycling camps, the Detroit Fitness Foundation offers weekly one-on-one bike lessons at the Lexus Velodrome, continuing its mission to promote fitness and freedom for all kids.
For families in Metro Detroit looking for an active and enriching summer activity, these bike camps offer a fantastic opportunity to learn, grow, and embrace the independence that comes with riding a bike.
Click here for more information about bike classes and camps.
Copyright 2025 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit – All rights reserved.
