The Experimental Station is a non-profit that serves the South Side of Chicago through supporting local initiatives like the 61st Street Farmers and Blackstone Bicycle Works (BBW), a recipient of USA Cycling’s Everyone Rides Community Impact Grant.
To date, BBW has already put the funds to use, helping eliminate financial barriers for their Youth Cyclocross Race Team. Expenses such as race registration fees, nutritious meals for athletes, and reliable transportation for riders and their equipment were all covered by the grant.
The success of the BBW Youth Cyclocross Race Team, which includes strong participation and race victories, has garnered increased visibility for BBW in the greater cycling community. The team’s success shows the determination and sportsmanship of their youth while showcasing BBW as a vital program expanding diversity, opportunity, and leadership within competitive cycling.
Beginning in March, BBW will launch its “Earn-a-Bike” program on Tuesdays and Thursdays, serving youth ages 9-11. Through this program, younger participants gain hands-on experience in bike maintenance, road safety, and working as a team — setting them up to one day compete on our race team.
Recently, BBW has also begun planning a 2026 Chicago Youth Bike Summit. Bringing together youth from across Chicago, the event will connect participants with officials and advocates to explore how cycling infrastructure gets built and how communities drive change — extending the civic engagement and confidence fostered through racing.
Through their programs and youth team, Blackstone Bicycle Works is helping cultivate a stronger cycling culture on Chicago’s South Side. Their riders are inspiring younger participants and community members to view cycling not only as a recreation but as sport, transportation, and a path to leadership.
