Kutztown Bike Rodeo promotes rider safety

The Kutztown Police Department hosted its second annual Kutztown Community Bike Rodeo, a free public safety event designed to promote bicycle safety and fun for children of all ages.

“Our main goal was to give children the skills and confidence to ride safely — whether in their neighborhood or to and from school,” Sgt. Walt Skavinsky said in a statement. “We focused on the basics: obeying traffic signs, using hand signals, riding on the correct side of the road, and wearing properly fitted helmets. For some of these kids, it was their first introduction to road safety concepts in a real-world context.”

The event, held on June 8 at the Kutztown High School parking lot, brought together local law enforcement, volunteers and community organizations to offer hands-on learning and resources for about 50 young cyclists.

“The weather held out, and families came ready to learn, ride, and have fun,” Skavinsky said.

Open to all youth ages 5 to 17, the event featured interactive stations and educational activities including a bicycle safety skills course; free helmet fittings and replacements; basic bike inspections and tune-ups; safety demonstrations; games; and snacks.

Children were encouraged to bring their bikes and helmets. Helmets were provided at no cost to those who needed them.

“Bicycle safety is a life skill, and teaching it early helps reduce injuries and promote healthy habits. By hosting this event in a welcoming environment, we hope to strengthen community trust while providing tools to help kids become safer, more independent riders,” Skavinsky said.

The rodeo included several interactive stations like the Stop on a Dime braking course, helmet fittings, a mini-maintenance check, and a hands-on traffic safety activity.

“It was also a day of growth for many of the participants. At least two riders proudly removed their training wheels for the first time during the event! That’s always a heartwarming milestone to witness,” Skavinsky said.

The event also reinforces the value of positive interactions between police officers and youth.

“Building those relationships is just as important to us as teaching the rules of the road,” he said.

In addition, there were plenty of smiles at the refreshment table, which was stocked with drinks, snacks, and Rita’s Water Ice from Kutztown, a crowd favorite.

“The fun came from the supportive atmosphere created by local partners, volunteers, and families. Kids weren’t just learning; they were laughing, high-fiving officers, and accomplishing things they didn’t think they could,” Skavinsky said.

The police department is “incredibly grateful” for the support of its community partners, including Kutztown Lions Club, who provided snacks and refreshments; Rita’s of Kutztown, who donated ice treats for participants; AAA of Berks County, who provided helmets; Kutztown University Police Department; Kutztown Fire Company; Topton Ambulance; and Reading Hospital, who shared safety education material.

Up next, the Kutztown Police Department will host its first Community Breakfast with a Cop. The free public event will be held on Saturday, June 14, from 8 a.m. to noon at St. Paul’s UCC Fellowship Hall, 47 South Whiteoak St., Kutztown. All are welcome — no RSVP required.

This new community outreach event will feature a hot breakfast of pancakes, bacon, sausage, and beverages, served in a relaxed, family-friendly environment. Officers from the Kutztown Police Department will be on hand to greet guests, answer questions, and engage in meaningful conversations with members of the community.

The event is designed to foster positive interactions between law enforcement and residents by providing a welcoming and informal setting for dialogue and relationship-building.

For more information, contact Skavinsky at 610-683-3545 or wskavinsky@kutztownpd.org.·