COVID-19 and the Bike

How can we stay active and cycle and still follow physical distancing measures? First and foremost, keep updated and adhere to Public Health orders and measures (BC CDC , Island Health , Govt Canada).

1. Limit exposure by taking fewer and shorter trips. Try to cycle locally rather than across municipalities.

2. Ensure your bike is in good working order; avoiding injuries on your bike can save you an unnecessary trip to the hospital on an already pressurized healthcare system:

•  While local bike stores are open, how they conduct business has changed and wait times for bike repairs and services are probably higher than usual
• If your bike is unsafe to ride and the required repair is beyond your mechanical know-how, avoid riding until a bike shop can service it for you
• See our Basic Bike Maintenance Page

3. Separate through space:

• Cycle alone
• Many roads are empty, while pathways are busier than ever –opt for quieter roads and avoid popular or busy paths/trails
• Use voice or bell to alert others of your presence, especially when passing
• Maximize distance from other cyclists/pedestrians.  Allow greater space when passing, following, and when stopped – always important to be alert and scan for obstacles or other hazards when cycling, now we need to watch for others and keep our distance 

4. Separate through time. Try to schedule ride your bike for days and times that are less busy.

5. Practice good hygiene when cycling:

•  Sanitize your bike – before and after use – using an approved sanitizer or disinfectant to wipe down all surfaces
  • Handlebars, grips, & bell
  • Gear shifters &  brake levers
  • Tubes/frame
  • Saddle
  • Panniers/bags
  • Helmet
  • Lock & key
• When locking your bike maintain 2m/6’ from other bikes, bus stops, benches, other sidewalk or street fixtures
• Beg buttons – activate push buttons with your elbow, not hand or finger

6. Practice safe cycling – reduce risk of a fall or collision. Remember to be an “MVP of Cycling”:

• M stands for maneuverability. Position yourself on the road to allow yourself wiggle room. Evade harm, avoid potential hazards. 
• V for visibility. And See and be seen. Use a front white and rear red light. Turn them on! Most important piece of safety equipment to prevent crashes and injuries (besides helmets, which help post-crash).
• P for predictability. Follow the Rules of the Road.  Indicate what you are going to do and follow through. Use Hand signals.
• C for communication. Use a bell, your voice, and hand signals to communicate with other road users.

Senior Bike Instructor and Education Manager, Lana Taves, hosted our first webinar, “COVID-19 and the Bike.” Find the video, as well as the resources Lana recommends, below:

If you liked the drawing of a house, view more maps of life under lockdown. They are creative, thoughtful, and beautiful.

Wanting to learn how to best plan your route? Try these two resources: bikemap Victoria & mapmyride Victoria

Look to our Road Laws and Traffic Skills page for more info.