For the third year in a row, Kelowna cyclists who bike year-round will compete with cities around the globe to show their commitment to winter riding, and have something to look forward to during their frosty morning commute. This Friday is International Winter Bike to Work Day.
There are three different morning events happening throughout town where hot beverages and tasty breakfast treats are waiting for those who bundle up in the morning and jump on their bikes. Despite the colder weather and increase in snowfall this winter, there are still lots of commuters riding their bikes to work. The time has come to celebrate those who continue to bike and help commuter cycling become common place. A wrap-up party will take place at Kettle River Brewing from 3 to 7 p.m.
“Despite the colder weather, cycling in Kelowna is still possible and fun” said co-organizer Andrea Mackintosh. “We started out with just one event, and now two years later there are four events happening throughout town and more businesses showing their support.”
As the events grow locally, event organizers continue to emphasize safety when talking about winter cycle commuting. “Not a day goes by when I’m out riding that I don’t have an encouraging encounter with someone else out there; people love to see cyclists challenge the weather,” said Landon Bradshaw of the Kelowna Area Cycling Coalition.
Several local businesses are collaborating to host breakfast stations, and cyclists will find free refreshments, friendly faces, prize draws, and plenty of fun all along their morning commute. ChainLine Cycle, The Lions Cyclery, and Kelowna Cycle are offering bicycle mechanics who will be available at the stations for minor adjustments and repairs. Check out the Facebook event “Winter Bike to Work Day – Kelowna” for more details on where to find local events.
Event details:
1. Kelowna Area Cycling Coalition hosts a breakfast station on the Rails with Trails pathway at Angel Way (near Spall Road) from 6:30-9:00 am. Stop by for refreshments provided by Salted Brick, Bean Scene, and Urban Harvest Organic Delivery. There will also be free bike check ups and fat bike demo provided by ChainLine Cycle. Put your name in the draw for prizes from Kelowna Cycle and Kettle River Brewing Co.
2. The Lions Cyclery hosts a station located at 1289 Ellis Street in front of Bliss Bakery from 7-9 am. There will be free bike safety checks, a prize draw, coffee and cookies from Bliss Bakery, and tea from Chaibaba Tea. Plus! The Lions Cyclery will be giving out free tire levers and coupons for $10 off labour at their shop.
3. Kelowna Cycle hosts a station at their shop (103-2949 Pandosy Street) from 7 to 9 a.m. They’ll be offering free bike safety checks, a prize draw, and coffee and snacks. Plus! The first 20 commuters to stop by will receive a $20 gift voucher for The Hub.
4. Kettle River Brewing Co. hosts a wrap-up party at the brewery, 731 Baillie Ave. Stop by between 3 to 7 p.m. for $2 off your sample glass or tasting flight. Just show them your helmet as proof that you biked there! And you can enter a special prize draw for a growler.
