Warm weather cycling tips

Imagine commuting to work by pedaling through a canopy of green, warm air skimming your face as you move along Kelowna’s active transportation network, skipping the hunt for parking and saving both time and money. More residents are already making this their reality by choosing to commute by bike.

Nearly three per cent of Kelowna residents currently commute to work by bike, placing the city among the province’s leaders for active commuting, second only to Victoria and Vancouver.

For many residents, biking is their primary form of transportation, whether heading to work, running errands, or meeting friends.

“The City of Kelowna boasts 400 kilometers of bike paths and trails – 60 kilometres of which are protected from vehicle traffic,” said Alex Wood-Seems, Transportation Planner. “Recent and upcoming transportation projects such as protected corridors along Ethel and Sutherland, as well as the Bertram Multi-Use Overpass and Bertram Active Transportation Corridor, are helping to create safer connections through our downtown.”

The mild Okanagan climate and the City’s robust network of dedicated bike paths and trails, make it uniquely accessible for year-round bike commuting.

Like most forms of transportation, bike commuting naturally ebbs and flows throughout the year. Some people choose to ride year-round, while others opt for active transportation from spring through fall. No matter where residents fall along that spectrum, each ride supports health, wellbeing and provides a more affordable ways to get around, while also helping ease traffic congestion.

Warm weather cycling tips:  

Although the Okanagan has some of the most beautiful summers across the country, we can also have some of most intense heat. When cycling to work, here are some hot weather precautions to keep in mind:

• Stay hydrated: Dehydration is crucial during Okanagan summers. T0 stay hydrated, drink 7-10 oz of water every 10-20 minutes, or about one liter per hour. If you feel dizzy or fatigued, these are signals to stop riding.
• Time your ride wisely: Aim to ride during cooler, non-peak sun hours (morning or evening) and take breaks in the shade.
• Routine system checks: Heat can affect your bike’s performance. Conduct regular checks to prevent over-inflated tires and under-lubricated brakes and chains.
• Plan your route: Use the City of Kelowna’s online Bike Map to select paths with less traffic and more shade to help you glide through your ride.

At the other end of your commute, the City has a variety of parking options with bike lockers, high-security Bikeep stations, and the seasonal downtown Bike Valet. You can also park your bike at designated bike racks throughout the city.

For more information, visit the City’s Bicycling webpage  or check out the BC Cycling Coalition and GoByBike BC websites for a wealth of information for biking in every season.