Bike News in Calgary: Group Rides, Bike Events, A Bike Swap, and Great Cycling Clubs!

Winter Bike Day has its Annual Event on Saturday, February 15, 2025. Bike Calgary* hosts the event. It has a fun bingo card challenge that encourages cyclists to visit various businesses and charities in the city and fill up their bingo cards. There are some great prizes to be won.

Critical Mass Meets Monthly: The next ride is on Sunday, January 26^th at 6:30 pm. Meet at 1020 2^nd Ave NW, next to the containR in Sunnyside. This group ride travels to a set location together; the aim is to experience a group ride on our city streets that is safer and more fun.

Bike and Brew & Two Wheel View Offer Bike Maintenance Classes: Both of these organisations offer classes where you can learn important skills in one evening that will give you more confidence working on your ride! While Two Wheel View* is known for its programs for youth, their one-night maintenance classes are open to everyone.

Albert Bike Swap: Do you need a bike but you are on a tight budget? Or maybe you have one too many in your collection? Support the Alberta Bike Swap! The Calgary edition will be held on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025 (pssst…! It’s just five days ahead of Bike to Work Day). Swap your ride and show off your new-to-you wheels to your buddies at Bike to Work Day!

Featured Bike Clubs in Calgary:

• Bow Cyclist Club: Known for keeping the fun in cycling with themed rides like dusty gravel parties, mountain rippers, and ice cream shop rolls, alongside fast road rides. Mark your calendar and sign up on February 1st.
• East Village Pedalers: A new club by Bow Cycle* for pedal assist/non-throttled e-bike riders. Weekly rides start in East Village and follow a selected route. Registration is currently open.
• The Bike Shop* Ride Club: Focuses on cross-country, enduro mountain biking, road cycling, gravel rides, and cyclocross. Accommodates everyone from recreational riders to serious amateur racers. Registration is currently open.

 

There are many ways to meet fellow cyclists through groups, clubs, or informal rides with friends. Calgary boasts an amazing pathway system created by the City and Parks Foundation. If you haven't heard of the Rotary/Mattamy* Greenway, I encourage you to learn more about this fantastic bike path feature that encircles the city and connects many bike paths.

With so many opportunities to join great rides, events, and clubs, we at Bike to Work Day hope you find inspiration to jump on two wheels soon! Let’s get pedalling, Calgary!

*Bike to Work Day has many community cycling connections in Calgary. The groups marked with * are highlighted partners, sponsors, or featured organisations related to our event.

While there are many great reasons to bike to work, this post highlights my top 5. We are looking forward to celebrating our 18th annual Bike to Work Day Calgary. Our wish this year is to see more riders than ever out on the pathways and roads. It all started in 2006, when Lonny Balbi from Balbi and Company Legal Centre hosted the first Bike to Work Day in Calgary. He is passionate about the environment and wanted to share his love of cycling with everyone interested in trying biking to work. This year, we challenge you to encourage a new rider to join us and try out biking.

Recent innovations in e-bikes have opened up biking to people who might not have felt comfortable with their commute because it was a bit too far or they didn’t want to tackle the hills on their route. With biking to work now accessible to more riders, it's a great time to start biking more frequently. A great way to make a positive impact is to plan to bike with a friend who might need a bit of encouragement to get started.

Here are five great reasons to start pedaling:

1. The extra fresh air and exercise from biking can do a lot to improve your overall health. Findings show that people who started biking to work had more energy, less stress, and were more satisfied with their jobs. Regular exercise can lower your blood pressure, improve your cholesterol, and help control blood sugar.

2. Saving money is something on many of our wish lists. For example, if I keep my car parked and bike to work instead, I’d save $5,300 per year. You can see how much you would save using a car vs. bike calculator: Car vs. Bike Calculator.

3. There is far less waiting in traffic when you bike to work. On a bike, you can often circumvent traffic or more easily alter your route to lessen delays.

4. Biking can help you make new friends. There are many bike clubs and meet-up groups that feature events and opportunities to make connections. Some suggestions for places to connect with the cycling community are Bike Calgary, CORE Society, Meetup Groups, and Facebook Groups. You can also check with your local bike shop to see if they run any group rides.

5. Biking to work offers a unique connection to your surroundings compared to driving. You are much more inclined to notice details in your environment and to experience it more vividly than when you rush by in a car. One of my favorite commuting memories was when I was biking to work. It was a cool, misty morning when I saw a great blue heron and a swan floating in Prince's Island Lagoon. The moment was picture-perfect, and it's an image I will never forget. I encourage you to set a goal to bike to work if you haven't yet, or to bike more frequently wherever you can.

 

We would love to see you at our Bike to Work Day event! This year’s event is from 6 am – 9 am on Thursday, May 8th, 2025, at Delta Gardens. I hope you can join us for a free breakfast and your chance to win a new bike. Last year, we gave away seven new bikes that changed the rides of the lucky winners in our cycling community!

Overcoming Bike Commuting Challenges

When you’re not used to the idea of riding to work you can have some concerns. We’ve created guide to help address many common concerns that people face when they are going from being a pleasure cyclist to a commuting cyclist. If you need further assistance or have more points to discuss, please feel free to reach out to us at biketoworkdayyyc@gmail.com. We would love to help you get those wheels rolling to and from work-or anywhere else you’d like to explore!

Bike Maintenance

 

1. Locate Nearby Bike Shops or Seek Help:

• If you’re not a DIY mechanic, find nearby bike shops where professionals can assist you with maintenance.
• Alternatively, consider asking a friend who is knowledgeable about bikes for help.

 

2. Tune-Up at a Good Bike Shop:

• Visit a reputable bike shop nearby and get a thorough tune-up.
• Mobile bike mechanics are also an option—they’ll bring their shop to you!

 

3. Ensure Bike Reliability:

• Before hitting the road, don’t assume your bike is ready. If it hasn’t been ridden in a while, give it a once-over.
• Learn from my mistake: Always check your bike’s condition, especially after a period of disuse. Fortunately, I have more than one bike!

 

Getting in Shape

1. Gradual Fitness Improvement:

• Ride at a comfortable pace. Your fitness will naturally improve over time.
• Consistency is key—make bike commuting a regular part of your routine.

 

2. Test Your Route:

• Ride your route on a weekend to familiarize yourself with it.
• Identify any potential challenges or adjustments needed to streamline your daily commute.

 

3. Fitness Benefits of Regular Commuting:

• Encourage yourself—biking your route will get easier with time!

 

Consider Making Your Trip Shorter

1. Combine Modes of Transportation:

• If you have a secure place to store your bike, consider commuting one way by bike and using public transportation for the return trip.
• In Calgary, you can take your car or the bus part of the way to your destination and then ride your bike the rest of the distance. Many buses in Calgary allow bikes to be transported on the front of the bus.

 

2. Utilize C-Train Stations:

• Calgary has 14 C-train stations with bike lockers.
• Ride your bike to a C-train station and take transit the rest of the way.
• Consider renting a locker for you bike at the C-train. For bike locker access there’s an annual fee of $132 for the entire year or $72 for half a year. There is an additional $30 fee to register.

 

3. Carpool with a Co-Worker:

• Ride your bike to a co-worker’s house and carpool together to work.Time Constraints

 

1. Speed and Practice:

• The average commuter travels at approximately 16 kilometers per hour.
• Regular practice will lead to improved speed and efficiency.

 

2. Short Trips Are Quicker on a Bike:

• For trips under five kilometers, biking is often faster than other modes of transportation.

 

3. Urban Trips: Beat Car Travel Times:

• Urban trips of eight to eleven kilometers may match or even beat car travel times due to traffic congestion.

 

Parking Predicament

1. Scout for Storage Space:

• Explore storage options within your building or office.
• Secure bike storage areas can be a great asset for peace of mind.

 

2. Indoor Bike Security:

• Explore whether it’s an option to keep your bike indoors—whether it’s in a closet, your workspace, or a designated bike room.

 

3. Advocate for Bike Parking Facilities:

• Encourage your employer to provide bike parking facilities.
• A bike-friendly workplace benefits everyone.

 

Showering Concerns

1. Ride at a Leisurely Pace:

• To stay fresh upon arrival, avoid intense rides to work. Save those for your leisure rides at home.

 

2. Access Gym Showers or Consider Memberships:

• If your workplace lacks shower facilities, explore nearby gyms.
• Some gyms offer discounted memberships specifically for shower use.

 

Dressing Dilemma

1. Keep Spare Work Attire at Your Workplace:

• Maintain a stash of work clothes at the office. Rotate them during your driving or commuting days.

 

2. Space-Saving Rolling Techniques:

• When packing a change of clothes, try rolling them tightly. This saves space and minimizes wrinkles.

 

Rainy Weather

1. Plan Ahead:

• Check the weather forecast before your commute. Be prepared for rain.
• Pack rain gear or consider alternative transportation options on wet days.

 

2. Equip Your Bike:

• Install fenders on your bike to keep water from splashing onto you.
• Wear appropriate rain gear, including waterproof jackets and pants.

 

3. Alternatives on Rainy Days:

• If biking in the rain isn’t comfortable, opt for transit, carpooling, or driving.

 

Safety Measures

1. Adhere to Traffic Rules:

• Signal turns, obey traffic lights, and follow road signs.
• Bright clothing enhances visibility.

 

2. Helmet Consistency:

• Treat biking like driving—always wear a helmet.
• It reduces the risk of head injuries significantly.

 

3. Illuminate Your Bike:

• Ensure your bike has front and rear lights if you ride in the dark.

 

4. Choose a Bike Friendly Route:

• Google Maps offers a cycling setting to help plan and manage your route effectively. Consider adding a cell phone mount to your handlebars so that it’s easier to see your route.

 

Running Errands

1. Install a Rack:

• Add a rack to your bike for carrying items. It’s practical for grocery runs or other errands.

 

2. Use a Sturdy Lock:

• When parking your bike during errands, invest in a reliable lock.
• Protect your bike from theft.

 

3. Allocate Extra Time:

• Factor in additional time for appointments or parking when commuting by bike.
• Arrive stress-free and prepared.

 

Bike to Work Day is Now Accessible to More People

• In 2024 we partnered with Neuron, a personal mobility company that provides e-bikes to the public. People without bikes were encouraged to join us on two wheels at Bike to Work Day; they recieved a $5 discount on their ride from Neuron during our event. Stayed tuned for more fresh ideas arriving with Bike To Work Day 2025!

 

Inviting friends and coworkers to join Bike to Work Day Calgary is a fantastic idea. Here are the details for the event:

• Event: Bike to Work Day Calgary


• Date: Thursday May 8th, 2024 from 6 AM - 9 AM


• Location: Delta Gardens (just south of the Peace Bridge)


• Highlights:  
  
  
  • Complimentary breakfast to kickstart your day.
  
  
  • Free mini bike tune-ups to keep your wheels rolling smoothly.
  
  
  • Exciting prizes, including free bikes!

 

Let's pedal together for a greener future!

Our featured blog article is written by Stephanie Prentice of the Calgary Guardian. Thanks to the Calgary Guardian for the excellent coverage! If you visit their website you will find many interesting articles on topics such as: arts, lifestyle, food & drink, music, travel and city life:

Home - Calgary Guardian

Bike to Work Day (BTWD) is a community-driven initiative in Calgary, uniting individuals with a shared passion for promoting cycling as a practical mode of transportation. The aim is to alleviate inner-city traffic congestion, reduce air pollution, and integrate cycling into a healthy and cost-effective lifestyle. Beyond the benefits of personal health and time savings, BTWD fosters a sense of community. In the face of climate change challenges, biking to work emerges as a simple yet impactful way to cut carbon emissions and contribute to environmental sustainability. We spoke to Lonny Balbi, the founder of this initiative.

Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences:

Bike to Work Day, established in 2006, is a cycling-themed event that promotes healthy lifestyles, environmental sustainability, and, of course, cycling in Calgary. We partner with The City of Calgary and Parks Foundation Calgary, operating entirely on sponsorships, donations, and volunteer contributions. Our goal is to encourage cycling, and the event serves as a platform for community engagement and a greener world.

What problem does it aim to solve?

Bike to Work Day aims to tackle sedentary lifestyles, reduce environmental impact, and foster a sense of community by promoting cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation.

When did you start/join it?

I founded Bike to Work Day in 2006, driven by a passion for cycling, environmental advocacy, and creating a positive impact in our community.

What made you want to get involved?

As an avid cyclist and a firm believer in environmental sustainability, I saw an opportunity to combine my love for cycling with a meaningful initiative that promotes healthier living and contributes to a greener, more sustainable Calgary.

What was the situation like when you started?

In 2006, the cycling culture in Calgary was evolving, and there was a need for a flagship event to unite cyclists, promote the benefits of biking to work, and create a sense of community around sustainable transportation.

How has it changed since?

Over the years, Bike to Work Day has grown into Calgary’s most recognizable cycling-themed event. While the impact of COVID-19 led to a temporary dip in participation, we are dedicated to rebuilding and expanding, aiming for continued growth and community engagement in the years ahead.

What more needs to be done?

We aim to continue to increase participation, promote cycling awareness, and create more bicycle commuters in Calgary each year. Bike to Work Day is an annual event that aims to inspire lasting changes in commuting habits, fostering a city where cycling is not just an event but a way of life.

How can our readers help?

Readers can support Bike to Work Day by participating in the event, volunteering, spreading awareness, and considering sponsorship opportunities. Every cyclist joining in, and every contribution counts in making our city greener and healthier.

Do you have any events coming up?

Yes, Bike to Work Day 2024 is scheduled for Friday, May 3, from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM. We invite everyone to join us, either as participants or sponsors for a morning of cycling, community building, and fun. We will be giving away great prizes at the event including some new bikes as well as hosting a free breakfast for everyone who joins us.

Where can we follow you?

Website | Facebook | Instagram

PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?

An awesome local charity that deserves support is Two Wheel View. They work tirelessly to connect youth with the tools they need to reach their potential. The youth can learn to fix bikes, and they can even earn a bike, helmet, lock, and a set of tools. Every year I donate a dollar to Two Wheel View for every participant in our Bike to Work Day event.

*This article is written by Stephanie Prentice for the Calgary Guardian and is being shared with their permission.

 

 

Valentine's Day is right around the corner, and instead of sticking to the usual routine of chocolates and flowers, why not enliven the experience with a biking adventure? Whether you're celebrating on the day itself or opting for a weekend getaway when time allows, a cycling outing promises to be a fun and memorable experience. At Bike to Work Day, we're all about promoting active lifestyles and unique ways to celebrate special occasions, and cycling with your significant other fits the bill perfectly.

One fun option is to pedal to your favorite local café and enjoy in a signature hot chocolate together. With YYC Hot Chocolate Fest running until February 29, there's no shortage of cozy spots offering warm, rich delights that are sure to make your Valentine's Day outing extra special.

If you prefer an outdoor date, why not chase the sunset together? Pack a charcuterie-style snack, and some warm drinks and find a spot with a stunning view of the prairie sky as it paints itself in beautiful colours during dusk. The sun will set at 5:50 PM on February 14. For an extra touch of romance, consider heading to a city park where you can use a firepit to create a fire-roasted dinner or some sweet treats. Evening booking slots for firepit use in our city parks are available from 7 PM – 9 PM.

No matter what you decide, we're sending love your way and hoping you'll seize the opportunity to enjoy some happy cycling moments together. Whether it's a leisurely ride to a café or a romantic sunset adventure, Valentine's Day on two wheels is bound to be a memory you'll cherish.