Bike the Drive 2022: Chicago bikers ride 30 miles down DuSable Lake Shore Drive

CHICAGO (WLS) — Thousands of cyclists biked the 30-mile trek down DuSable Lake Shore Drive for the annual “Bike the Drive” event.

They got started bright and early. Participants could start the ride anytime between 6:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., but organizers recommended starting no later than 7:30 a.m. to get the most out of their time.

Matt Kelly loved last year’s event so much, he made sure to run it back again on this holiday weekend.

“I’ve been trying to work my way up.. I do, like, six miles a day just for practice,” Kelly said. “It’s good exercise… It’s a good way to see the city… meeting up with some friends later for brunch… It’s just a good reason to get outside and get some exercise.”

Once people are done riding, they are treated to a party at Butler Field in Grant Park. Even with the rain, it’s a win-win for everyone involved, with that ride along the lakefront always putting a smile on everyone’s face.

People of all ages gathered together for the ride that shut down DuSable Lake Shore Drive from Edgewater to Hyde Park.

“It was fantastic. I love doing this,” said Michael Stern, who grew up in the city. “Always drove up and down Lake Shore Drive, and now being able to bike it, is really cool.”

The bike route went from Bryn Mawr Avenue south to the Museum of Science and Industry on 57th Street. Bikers had the opportunity to stop and turn around at three different rest stops along the route.