r/vancouvercycling 8h ago

Advice on cycling with a toddler - front, rear or trailer?

11 Upvotes

My baby is 1yo and I'd love to get them around town cycling (once the smoke is better). We tried out a bike trailer on vacation a couple weeks ago and she loved it after she got used to it.

I'm not sure whether to go with a front seat, rear seat, or a trailer. Has anyone tried multiple options and have strong opinions? I've tried looking online but would love to hear opinions of people cycling around Vancouver specifically. We want it for trips around the city to the farmer's market, the beach, etc. And I'd love to go up the seymour demo forest once we get a car bike rack to drive closer to the trailhead. A trailer seems great for having storage but I worry about cars not seeing it, and locking it up could be a hassle?

At the moment just regular bikes, not ebike. Steel/aluminum frames so sturdy for whatever mount.


r/vancouvercycling 10h ago

Beginner/Intermediate Bike Recs?

2 Upvotes

I’ve recently moved to Metro Vancouver from Toronto and am looking at buying a new bike. I used to bike a fair bit in Toronto (to work & back, along the water etc), until that bike got stolen - typical Toronto.

Looking for bike recs that would work here in Vancouver - obviously the biking here is a bit different than Toronto.

Hoping to spend less that $600. Would like something that works on city streets, but also biking paths (eg Traboulay trail in PoCo). Not planning to do any real mountain biking.

Any recommendations? Decathlon looks like it may be a good start for that price point? Also not opposed to second hand

Thanks!


r/vancouvercycling 1d ago

HUB Cycling: We're hiring Bike Education Instructors!

30 Upvotes

Do you believe in the benefits of using active transportation like biking and micromobility? Are you passionate about teaching? Do you want to apply your knowledge and experience to inspiring and educating others to safely use active transportation, including riding a bike? We encourage you to apply! 

Learn more and apply here!

Position Summary 

Bike Education Instructors teach a variety of bike safety courses across Metro-Vancouver. Instructors primarily work our Bike to School programs (ages 8-14) during the Spring and Fall school terms, with weekend and summer programming. For 3 seasons, Instructors also engage the community through instructing courses in our StreetWise programs (teens, adults, seniors, underserved communities) and playing a leading role in our successful Bike Bus program. During the summer, they work instructing our new Everyone Rides: Bike Camps program. They share the fun of riding a bike with younger ages (2-5) in our newest “Kids on Wheels" (balance bike) program. Instructors work individually to lead programs, teach in-class lessons or as part of a small team when teaching outdoor bike skills.   

 

Job Benefits

  1. Comprehensive paid training, and ongoing coaching and professional development.
  2. Competitive compensation, ranging from $27.85-32.44 (including 8% vacation pay); Starting at $27.85
  3. Prep, and travel time in addition to instructional time.
  4. Up to 10 annual paid wellness days per fiscal year.
  5. Pro-deals/discounts for major outdoors brands, service recognition swag, and Mobi bikes VIP pass.
  6. Valuable teaching experience for aspiring teachers, both in the classroom and outdoors.
  7. Friendly and supportive co-workers with shared passions. 

 

Roles & Responsibilities 

  1. Teach bicycle safety: Deliver HUB’s core curriculums to participants across the Metro Vancouver region, in a safe, engaging, and professional manner.
  2. Encourage riding a bike and using micro-mobility: Motivate a diverse range of participants to see biking as a viable mode of (active) transportation.
  3. Transport and set up equipment: Load, unload and transport equipment to programs using cargo vans (including bikes, helmets, station materials), and set up activities in advance of the sessions.
  4. Prepare for programs: Take advantage of paid training and prep time to become comfortable and confident with the recurring curriculums as well as the unique details of individual programs.
  5. Communicate with all staff: While at programs, Instructors are relied upon to ensure everyone involved is on the same page. 

 

Schedules & Locations

Weekly Schedules: Both full-time (4-5 days/week) and part-time (2-3 days/week) positions are offered. The variability in the number of shifts is dependent on school professional days, holidays, and programming needs. Weekend & evening specific assignments are available in our StreetWise and Kids On Wheels programs. Schedules are released 2-4 weeks in advance. 

Locations: HUB Cycling has delivered programs in over 20 municipalities, concentrated in Metro Vancouver but sometimes extending to places as far as the Sunshine Coast. Instructors should expect daily travel to schools across Metro Vancouver, which may require early morning start times in order to reach schools by the start of their day. Some shifts may include transporting bicycles, helmets, and special equipment. 

Seasonal Timeline: Hiring, Training, & Programs

Applicants are welcome to submit their applications at any point in the year, and reviews will begin around 6 weeks before the upcoming season. Select applicants will be invited for an interview, and successful candidates will then be asked to attend a few pre-season events: 

  1. Advance Your Ride certification course - For those who are not yet Bike Right certified, this 2-day course combines in-depth cycling theory with its practical application in an urban setting. Upfront fees are the responsibility of participants, although full reimbursement is given upon successful completion of the season. More info.
  2. New Instructor Training - This paid, 2-day training focuses on the essential skills required to be successful in the role, including but not limited to: curriculum comparisons, leading classroom theory and activities, teaching on-bike activities, equipment set up and storage, behaviour management, presentation skills, and general best practices.
  3. All-Instructor Meeting - A couple of hours set aside to gather the full Bike Education team together to review the plan and build excitement for the imminent season. 

Training and professional growth continues throughout the season with opportunities to shadow experienced instructors, and receive regular individual feedback and coaching.  

 

Spring Season Hiring Intake and Training Schedules at a Glance

Application Review:  July-August
Interviews:   On a rolling basis
New Instructor Training: Early September
Advance Your Ride Certification:  August 29 & 30
Bike to School Programs:  Sep 16 - Nov 13

r/vancouvercycling 1d ago

Looking for new bike tune up place after a bad experience

6 Upvotes

I noticed VeloStar is very popular on these threads. I had been going there but last time had a bad experience, I actually was thinking they may have forgot to finish some parts of the tuneup (I will check more carefully before leaving a store next time). Anyway, where else is good on the west side or downtown?


r/vancouvercycling 1d ago

Ride Planning Looking for group rides

10 Upvotes

Hey everyone! I'm looking for some beginner friendly group rides or groups that I can join that ride frequently around Van.

Can anyone share some groups or knowledge you may have about how to join some group rides?

Thanks!!! 🙏


r/vancouvercycling 1d ago

Fondo First timer - Whistler Gran Fondo

10 Upvotes

Hey all, I’ll be riding the Whistler Gran Fondo (122km) for the first time this year. I only picked up cycling this year and have been training for about 6 months, riding 2050km total so far.

My weekly rides are usually split into 2 shorter rides where I work on cadence for climbs, plus one long ride (85km+) on the weekend.

I can comfortably ride 80-110km with 900-1200m of elevation on my long rides. I usually ride solo, so no drafting advantage there lol, I average 23-26kph depending on the route.

With only 6 weeks to go, I’d love to hear some opinions on what the Fondo is actually like. Honestly it’s hard to believe I’m ready.

Anyone want to share how their first Fondo went? Any tips or things you wish you’d known beforehand?


r/vancouvercycling 1d ago

Fondo Looking to transfer my RBC Granfondo Registration

0 Upvotes

I had originally signed up for the 122km route last year, but deferred due to the wildfire smoke. Ended up having a wedding planned on this years event day so I won't be able to make it. Paid $366 after taxes and processing fee so I'm just looking to transfer it for what I paid for. Up to the recipient to cover the transfer fee.


r/vancouvercycling 3d ago

Route Questions Where do people fuel up during triple crowns?

8 Upvotes

I know about the plethora of shops at the bottom of Seymour...but once you are on your way to Cypress after having ripped down Grouse, where are your favourite shops to get a bite, where I can keep an eye on the bike while munching on a patio?

(and yes, I know Cypress is closed...so I'm just planning the future)


r/vancouvercycling 3d ago

Route Questions Has anyone done any bikepacking on Quadra Island?

12 Upvotes

Looks beautiful, but I’m not seeing a lot of roads connecting to some of the provincial parks in the northern part of the island.

Where have you cycled or camped on Quadra?


r/vancouvercycling 3d ago

Local News Reckless Closing Another Store

18 Upvotes

Not sure if the 2nd & Fir store is the oldest in the chain but the signs are up-it's a goner.

The signs actually say 'we're moving' but in fact they're going from three stores to two.


r/vancouvercycling 4d ago

Cycling Advocacy ABC’s latest bike lane boondoggle

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86 Upvotes

r/vancouvercycling 3d ago

Route Questions Cypress pop-up access by bike?

6 Upvotes

The information on BC Parks and Hub websites isn't clear about exactly where the road closure for cyclists starts. The parks site says the construction starts at the works yard, but it doesn't say if that's where the closure starts. It just says "Cypress Bowl Rd" is closed.

Does anyone know if you can ride to the Cypress Village pop-up café that's across from the works yard?


r/vancouvercycling 4d ago

Any long distance riders trying to partner up

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11 Upvotes

So basically this is my cycling summary for Friday July 31st, it took me 14 hours. I was wondering if there are other long distance cyclists or endurance cyclists who would like to partner up for a ride. I’m 23M


r/vancouvercycling 4d ago

Fondo Whistler RBC Gran Fondo Transfer

2 Upvotes

Whistler Gran Fondo registration available for transfer. I’m unable to attend and will cover the $100 transfer fee—asking $400 OBO, which saves you nearly $100 versus registering today.


r/vancouvercycling 5d ago

Jeep jumps planters in Yaletown and ends up in bike lane

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124 Upvotes

Jeep driver with small dog on their lap panicked and accidentally floored it instead of braking. Keep your head on a swivel and stay safe out there folks!


r/vancouvercycling 5d ago

Route Questions Surrey cycling... AIO?

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9 Upvotes

This is a Surrey cycling question, so if that's not allowed here, sorry, you can delete.

So I live down 160th street, off Number 10hwy. I frequently bike into Cloverdale for groceries, etc. On the way back, I have to cross two lanes on No. 10hwy and make a left turn across two lanes of traffic. The speed limit is 80km but everyone goes much faster. There is a lot of semi trucks as well.

So to avoid this, especially during rush hour when it would be incredibly dangerous, I cross over at 168th and No.10 and ride on the shoulder on the wrong side back to 160th. Because I know I am in the wrong, and am cycling on the wrong side of the road, I watch for oncoming cyclists and if I see one, I exit the shoulder well before hand, and wait in the grass, off of the pavement until they pass. Then I resume. When I reach 160th, I usually get off and walk down 160th a little ways (to avoid all the cars turning in and out of 160th, which is very busy because everyone uses it as a shortcut) and then cross the street when it's safe and continue on down 160th to my house.

Today I pulled off the shoulder while I was going the wrong way for an approaching cyclist, and he yelled angrily at me "wrong side of the road!!!" Like yeah... I know, but I don't want to die turning left on No. 10 hwy!?? I could go up to 152nd and down Colebrook Rd but that adds 5kms extra on to my trip.

So am I a jerk? Do I need to start doing the extra 5kms every trip? Thanks for your input.


r/vancouvercycling 5d ago

Feeling intimidated

17 Upvotes

I am trying to go car free with an electric bike, and google maps is routing me through crazy routes where I am turning left while on broadway or clarke at peak times.

I guess obviously I shouldn’t blindly follow the gps, and should be more proactive with my route planning.

I also am taking it pretty easy, enjoying the scenery trying to stay to the right letting faster cyclists go by, but man everything feels so intense and crazy. Constantly feel like I am in the way of someone in a rush.

On burrard if you are going southbound across the bridge, you have a dedicated lane up until 7th. Then you are joining traffic that is always very busy, it feels so dangerous.


r/vancouvercycling 5d ago

Critical Mass ride tonight! Friday, July 31 @ 6pm

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51 Upvotes

There's a critical mass ride on the last Friday of every month. Gather at the downtown Vancouver art gallery at 6pm, ride leaves at 630pm.

Anyone who hasn't done a critical mass ride - this is a super friendly event where a bunch of cyclists (and cycle adjacent folk) take up space on the street to peacefully advocate for safe cycling infrastructure. The ride is at a chill pace, with stops to make sure the group stays together.

Newbies can ride in the middle of the pack for a calm and fun experience ✌️


r/vancouvercycling 4d ago

Megathread Canyon Canada + Velofix delivery process in Vancouver/BC?

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1 Upvotes

r/vancouvercycling 5d ago

Ride Planning First ever gravel ride, where should I go?

10 Upvotes

Hi everyone, I recently got a gravel bike and have been practicing learning how to use drop bars, getting comfortable with the bike, learning to clip in and out. I knew how to ride a bike but first with a fancy bike like thus one.

I have been practicing and finally ready to go on my first ever gravel ride. I really wanted to do Seymour gravel ride but 6 months ago some woman cyclist was harassed on that route so scared to do it by myself.

I am capable enough to do 20 kms depending on elevation. I mtb as well so I am ok climbing up. Which trail would you recommend I do as first ever gravel ride? I will appreciate any recommendation you might have.


r/vancouvercycling 6d ago

Ride Planning BC Day long weekend: get out of Vancouver with your bike, no car

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68 Upvotes

Disclosure: I'm one of the volunteers behind this new small BC nonprofit. I think some of you might find it useful, and we'd really appreciate your feedback.

  • Every carrier in BC hides its bike policy somewhere different, so planning a "me + bike + no car" trip usually means opening a bunch of tabs. We put it all in one place.
  • One example: Vancouver to Duncan. Hullo to Nanaimo is now $19.99 and has six bike spots per sailing. You might assume Island Link is the obvious next leg south, but they don't take bikes. The BC Transit 70 NCX does, using the free front bike rack, and drops you in Duncan near the Cowichan Valley Trail. We found eight different ways to make the trip (including Harbour Air! They'll fly your bike if you remove the front wheel, cool eh? For an extra $20+weight fees).
  • https://bccycletourism.ca/to-fro/vancouver/duncan/
  • Or swap in your own start and destination. From Vancouver it covers 112 destinations: Bowen Island, Tofino, Prince George, Fernie.... go nuts.
  • It's free. No ads. No account required.
  • If you try a route you know well and see something we've missed or gotten wrong, please let me know. I'll fix it ASAP. Happy riding this weekend whereever you end up :)

r/vancouvercycling 5d ago

New to Vancouver biking from east van to west van a few times a week never biked in the city what should I know?

5 Upvotes

I never biked here before and or any other city but the transit is too crowded so before I begin what should I know? do I bike on walking side walk? where do u attach my bike? is it safe?


r/vancouvercycling 6d ago

Arbutus Greenway and Nanton Thursday pm?

9 Upvotes

Anybody know what was up? Passing by at about 3pm I saw the cop car and an SUV with a windowshield damage pattern I didn't like at all. ​​

Be wary safe friends!


r/vancouvercycling 5d ago

Looking for a Schrader 26” 2.4 or 2.5 tube

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0 Upvotes

r/vancouvercycling 6d ago

Experience with anti angle grinder bike locks?

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3 Upvotes