Cycling Resources
Bike Maintenance
Bike Parking
Bicycle Route Map
Commuter Cycling Tips
Rules of the Road

Cycling Resources

Cycling is a great alternative to using a motor vehicle because it is fast, cheap, easy to do and uses the most efficient zero-emission vehicle – the bicycle. Plus it is a great way to get some exercise and experience the outdoors. You’ll look better, feel healthier and enjoy the thrill of sneaking some ‘playtime’ into your day. Even just one day a week will help you feel great! 

Cycling is a great way to experience and immerse yourself in your community! Feel the wind in your face, smell the flowers, meet your neighbours and most of all enjoy the ride!

For trips of up to five kilometers, cycling is also the fastest way to travel, so take your bike instead, arrive on time, and kiss those traffic jams and parking hassles goodbye. The average speed for cyclists is 18 kilometres/hour.

Cycling can also save you money! It costs about $200 per year to maintain a bike, plus an initial investment of up to $300 for commuting accessories. Compare that to the $8,500 a year - about $25 per day - that the average person pays to own and operate a mid size vehicle . Then add in the cost of parking (which is free for cyclists), and you’re way ahead.

Cycling can even save money in your community. The American Automobile Association estimates that for a reduction in 15,000 cars, more than $127 million could be redirected to the lcoal economy!

What to Wear

The great thing about cycling is its simplicity. To get from here to there, cyclists need only two things: a bike (of course) and a helmet. However, there are some additional accessories that can help make cycling more comfortable and safer, but you can get these items as needed:

• Reflectors
• Front and rear light for night time cycling.
• Lock.
• Tire pump.
• Protective eyewear (like sunglasses) to shield your eyes from bright sunlight, road debris, wind and insects.
• Water bottle and holder.
• Mirror to help you see behind you (but remember to check over your shoulder, too).
• Rear rack with a milk crate attached by rope or bungee cords, or panniers for carrying goods.
• Roadside repair kit containing: tube/tire patches, spare tube, tire levers, appropriate screwdrivers, an adjustable wrench, surgical gloves or moist towelettes to keep your hands clean , spare batteries for lights, change for two phone calls, and/or bus tickets and taxi fare in case of emergency.
• Copy of the Bicycle Route Map.

Weather Accessories

Here in the Central Okanagan year round cyclists face all types of weather conditions and some simple accessories can help you weather any condition.

• Front and rear fenders to prevent rain from splashing your clothes.
• Vinyl saddle (seat) helps to prevent soaking in the rain.
• Biking shorts are good for warm weather, and also offer complete mobility.
• Wet weather may require you to wear waterproof clothing, but make sure it allows air to circulate.
• Gloves can make riding more comfortable and can protect your hands.
• Shoe covers, toe-clip covers, and cold-weather riding shoes help keep your toes warm in cooler weather. Don't forget to bundle up during the winter.

For extra comfort, convenience and fun, think about using the following:

• Pant clips or bands help prevent your pants from getting caught.
• If you are cycling to work, you may also wear athletic clothes and change at work; bring your clothes in a regular backpack or pannier (special garment-bag panniers are also available). You may also consider taking in a week's worth of work outfits and leaving them there.
• Handlebar bag or basket provides extra carrying capacity.
• Bicycle trailer is a great way to transport your kids.
• Bike stand or kickstand.
• Toe-clips and straps, or clip-less pedals.
• Suspension device for smoother riding.
• White light mounted onto your helmet for increased night-time visibility.
• Speedometer or odometer to help your record you distances and times.
• For extra safety, carry a cell phone with you.

Cycling Safely

• Always wear a helmet! In BC, it's the law.
• Select a helmet approved by CSA, ANSI, ASTM, or Snell and make sure it fits properly.
• Always wear bright and reflective clothing.
• If you are riding in the dark be sure to use a front light and rear reflectors so that vehicles can see you.
• If you are a first time cyclist, try and find a bike buddy who can show you the ropes.
• Pick up a Bicycle Route Map that shows all of the bicycle lanes, bicycle paths, and bicycle routes in the City of Kelowna so that you can plan to take the safest routes.
• Obey the rules of the road to help prevent collisions.
• Always scan the road, be alert and ride defensively – don’t assume that drivers will see you, make sure they do.

The i-go Commuter Cycling Tips  has more great information and the Rules of the Road section has great info to get you going.

Get active. Be healthy. Protect the region you love. i-go.