WonderLab to present ‘Cycle Science’ Memorial Day weekend

Little 500 might be over, but interest in bicycling is still strong in Bloomington.\nIn the spirit of the bicycling season and the ground-breaking of the new B-Line Trail, WonderLab will introduce children and adults alike to the physics of bicycles during the Cycle Science program this weekend. \n“We thought it’d be a good time to focus on the physics and safety of cycling,” WonderLab Marketing Director Louise Schlesinger said. WonderLab, a nonprofit science museum, features permanent, hands-on exhibits and hosts a variety of programs throughout the year. Schlesinger said that the program, which is sponsored by the Bloomington Bicycle Club, explains the physics of bicycles at different levels of sophistication. Revolution Bike and Bean is a partner in the program and will lead various program activities.\n“Whether you are riding a tricycle or you’re an adult, there’s something that’ll appeal to everyone,” Schlesinger said.\nOutside, a bike safety obstacle course will be available for participants to complete. Participants will first go through a bike safety check, and all who complete the obstacle course will receive a certificate and have the chance to win bike accessories.\nIn one activity, participants will learn about the different tools used in bicycle maintenance and use these tools to take apart bicycles, said Revolution Bike and Bean owner Brad Titzer.\n“Once you get kids into cycling they’ll do it forever,” Titzer said. “That’s where it starts. To be part of that is inspiring to me.”\nTitzer will also be teaching the basic physics of gears and brakes. Some of the hands-on activities include building with K’Nex to learn how bicycle gears work, experimenting with gyroscopes and building model helmets for eggs and simulating a crash by dropping them from the second floor to learn how helmets work.\nChildren too young to participate in these events will have the opportunity to bring their bicycles and decorate them, Schlesinger said.\nSchlesinger said WonderLab expects 600 to 800 people to attend the event throughout the weekend.\nWonderLab is located at 308 W. Fourth St. Cycle Science will take place from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. May 24, with outdoor activities from noon to 3:30 p.m.; and from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. May 25, with outdoor activities from 2 to 4 p.m. \nAll activities are included with museum admission, which is $6 for children and $7 for adults. In honor of Memorial Day, all U.S. veterans and current service personnel will receive free admission. This particular program has a one-time admission fee, so participants can come and go throughout the day, Schlesinger said. \nFor more information about Cycle Science or WonderLab, call 337-1337, ext. 25.