It started out a few years ago as a way for Debbie Reid to give something back.

Now about to roll down the street for the fourth year, Reid's Bikes for Kids Utah charity event will provide 1,000 new bicycles to children from across the Wasatch Front that might otherwise not be able to afford one.

"It's always fun seeing cyclists from around the state participate in the fundraising rides," Reid said, "and it's even better seeing all the kids smiling while they get their bikes."

To help pay for the bikes — as well as a new helmet and lock for each child — Bikes for Kids Utah organizes a set of group bike rides ranging from an easy 5K stroll around the event to a 100K cruise that includes more than

3,400 feet of climbing along the streets of the Salt Lake Valley.

And it happens this weekend.

The event originally included a ride with world-class cyclist David Zabriskie in the early fall. But after changing the dates so the children could enjoy their new bikes throughout the summer, the event has not lost any momentum.

Each year, the organization selects kids from different area schools. The 2009 event will be the fourth time 1,000 needy children have received a new set of wheels.

"It has been a really amazing experience," Reid said, "to see the smiles on the kids' faces as they receive a new bike, helmet and lock."

Always trying to find additional ways to fund the charity, Reid has tapped into a line of sponsors and donors to create supporting events such as a dinner and silent auction at LaCaille and a BYU vs. Utah hill climb time trial to the top of Suncrest.

Bike shops, Boy Scout troops and the Wasatch Women's Cycling Club have also donated time to make sure the bikes are built right and the recipients are given a bicycle safety "rodeo" to help them navigate the streets and sidewalks of their neighborhoods.

E-MAIL: jeborn@desnews.com