CAN-BIKE courses Canbikecanada.ca
In certain circles it’s taken for granted that you cycle, or at least you know how to cycle. This particular world view doesn’t take into account people like me – 20-something and terrified of bikes. I blame a traumatic childhood incident that involved a large hill and ended in a ravine. I won’t go into that here.
But there’s hope for me yet. Cycling Canada and the city of Toronto offer CAN-Bike programs for all levels and ages. I, for example, would enroll in Adult Learn To Ride 1, which starts with the seemingly simple yet scary tasks of balancing, starting, stopping and turning.
There are also helpful courses for people who already cycle but want to brush up their skills or get used to biking in a new environment. Another popular option is the Commuter Cycling Skills course for those who want to improve their comfort and confidence levels in traffic. Cycling Freedom For Women is taught by women, for women and focuses on the concerns that come with riding at night or with wee ones in tow. There are courses for kids, too, and for those who cycle on the job.
All you need to participate is a little bit of bravery, a bike in working order with a bell, a helmet and a bike lock.
