Education Overview - Memphis Hightailers

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Education at Memphis Hightailers

The Memphis Hightailers are more than a bicycle club. We’re an advocacy organization, and we teach safety classes to cyclists of all ages, from kids learning to ride for the first time to riders who want to service their own bikes.

Our education program started in 2014 to train our ride leaders and make sure every one of them leads to the same standard. In 2026 we added bike maintenance classes, and the program keeps growing.

Riding Skills & Safety

Learn to Ride: For kids (and adults) starting from zero. Balance, pedaling, braking and steering in a safe, encouraging setting. Learn more →

Smart Cycling: The basics of riding safely and confidently in traffic: where to position yourself, how to signal and communicate, and how to handle common road situations. Required for all Hightailers Ride Leaders. Learn more →

Group Riding: How to ride well in a group, including pacelines, spacing, hand signals, calling out hazards and ride etiquette. Learn more →

Bicycle Friendly Driver: For motorists. Learn how to share the road with cyclists, understand what riders are doing and why, and know the laws that protect everyone. Learn more →

GPS Tech Class: Get the most out of your bike computer or app. Load routes, follow turn-by-turn directions and track your rides. Learn more →

Bike Maintenance

Fix a Flat: Learn to remove a wheel, patch or replace a tube, and get back on the road. It’s the one skill every rider needs. Learn more →

Intro to Basic Maintenance: Hands-on basics to keep your bike running well, including cleaning, lubing, checking brakes and simple adjustments. Learn more →

Bike Wash: How to properly clean your bike and drivetrain so it lasts longer and rides better. Your local bike shop will appreciate a clean bike at your next tune-up, and many shops charge extra to clean a dirty one, so this class can save you money. Learn more →

Open Shop: Work on your own bike with our tools and benches, with help available. Reserve bench time online. Bring your own parts, and we’ll supply the lube, grease and rags. Learn more →

Safety Beyond the Bike

CPR: Hands-on CPR training with certification available. It’s offered in the winter months and is free for Hightailers Ride Leaders. Learn more →

Become a Ride Leader

Our education program began as ride leader training, and it’s still at the heart of what we do. Every Hightailers ride leader completes Smart Cycling and a series of mentored rides, so every group ride is led to the same standard. If you enjoy riding with others and want to help new cyclists feel safe and welcome, we’d love to have you lead.
Learn how to become a Ride Leader →

Coming Soon

Spin Classes: Indoor cycling sessions that build fitness, endurance and cadence through the off-season, so you’re ready when riding season starts.
Advanced Bike Maintenance: In-depth, hands-on classes on specific systems, such as brakes, shifting, drivetrains and tubeless tires.

Check back for dates and the full lineup.

Ready to learn? Browse upcoming classes and register below.

Class Partners
Supplied supplies for classes such as tools or resources.

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