Published in The BANAR, April 2021
by Don Kelly and Dave Garand
Spring has sprung! The sun is out, warm temperatures are returning, and everyone wants to get out and enjoy the outdoors. Throughout the City of Ottawa are bike trails that are well defined, safe and enjoyable. The National Capital Commissions’s Capital Pathway Network, with its 230kms of maintained pathways, offers options for all cycling skill levels and ages. Whether it be with skateboards, bikes, or scooters, injuries do occur so safety precautions should be part of your cycling plans. The websites of the Ottawa Police, Ottawa Safety Council and Bike Ottawa offer some great tips on safety gear for cycling and what to do to ensure your safety. Remember, anyone under the age of 18 must, by law, wear a helmet in Ontario.
Things to consider before heading out for a ride:
- Verify the condition and the air pressure in the tires. The right pressure will be indicated on the sides of the tires.
- Check the brake pads for even wear, brittleness, and the remaining amount of material. Regularly cleaning the braking surface with water and a bit of soap is recommended for consistent and safe braking power.
- Verify that the shifting is functioning property and that there are no frayed cables.
- Check the sizing of the bike (e.g., seat and handlebar heights).
- Ensure there’s a bell, reflectors, and reflective tape on the forks and stays.
Bike owners should be aware of the Project 529 app, a partnership between the Ottawa Safety Council and Ottawa Police Services and Bike Ottawa and Safer Roads Ottawa. If you register with Project 529 and your bike is stolen or lost, an alert is sent across the city to your fellow cyclists about the loss or theft. Over 6,000 residents have signed up and many bikes have been recovered. And don’t forget the importance of a good bike lock and knowing how to properly secure your bike!
If you would like to join the discussion about various cycling topics including what’s being done for infrastructure improvements in the east end, visit the East Ottawa Cycling Community Facebook page.