With the increase of cycling during the pandemic as one of the only ways to exercise, there are significantly more cyclists, runners, and walkers out and about.

 

Here is a refresher on cycling ettiquette:

 

Don’t use the wrong side of the path or walk in the middle of the path.

This is an unspoken rule but a lot of people do not stick to the right side of the path.  If you don’t stick to an edge, another cyclist might clip you as they pass you because they didn’t leave you enough room.

 

Don’t stop in the middle of the path.

This is especially important if you are in a group. Move as close to the edge or off the path if it is safe to do so. Not only is this important for social distancing, it is also saves people from having to go around you. The other week when I was out running, I saw a group of young cyclists stop and lay their bikes right on the path and then run into the trees to take a picture. This is incredibly unsafe and disrespectful.

 

Be aware of those who are around you.

It is important to be conscious of who is in front of you and who is behind you. When you need to pass someone, should check to make sure no one is behind you trying to pass and be aware of who is coming towards you as there might be someone coming the other direction.

 

Alert someone before you pass them.

Using you bell or calling out as you are passing someone will prevent them being startled by you.

 

Don’t pass everyone like you’re trying to win the Tour de France.

Slow your roll. I understand the love to go fast but it is also alarming to be passed by someone zooming by you.

 

Travel single file.

Share the space.

 

Be safe. Share the space. Happy (distant) cycling!

Photo by Tiffany Nutt on Unsplash

Cyclepalooza and Bike Calgary put on another successful Winter Bike to Work Day on Friday, February 14, 2020. The event featured a fun gathering of winter cyclists down at Eau Claire market with food, warm beverages and various sponsors and donors. They also had info on safe winter riding.

Calgary came in 15^th in the world by having 246 people pledge to ride. Uppsala, Sweden came in first with 879. International Bike to work Day had 14,402 total pledges.

Here are some of our best winter cycling tips:

1. Wear the right type of clothing for different types of weather.

Use cycle specific clothing that have the correct material to keep you moisture free. Sweating too much will leave you feeling cold and clammy. Get good quality gloves and overshoes or boots. This, combined with thermal socks, will keep your extremities warm.

2. Use lights year around to highlight your presence to other drivers.

With having less sunlight in the winter, cyclists are more often riding in the dark. Having rechargeable LED lights will improve your visibility and ultimately keep you safer on the road.

3. Mudguards to keep the muck on the ground and not on you.

With wetter conditions, you’ll find a significant increase in spray and snow coming off the back of your bicycle. Installing mud guards will keep it from soaking your backside and thus making your ride infinitely more comfortable.

4. Maintain so you don’t have to complain.

Winter is harsh, especially in Alberta, and can be particularly hard on your bicycle. Keeping your bike in tip top shape is important year around but more so in the winter time to prevent mishaps that may leave you stranded on the side of the road in less than optimal conditions.

5. Be prepared!

Making sure you are dressed appropriately and that your bicycle is in excellent working condition is key to successful winter riding. Make sure that you plan your route, check the weather and take every precaution necessary for safe winter riding!

Happy cycling!

Photo by Kaur Martin on Unsplash