Cycling Courses Help Change Commuting Habits

Research shows bike education works, as HUB launches a new season of cycling courses at community centres, bike shops

Taking a bike education course can increase cycling frequency, in some cases by two-and-a-half times, according to 2014 data.

With the launch of a new year of its public StreetWise courses, HUB Cycling is looking to see even more participation, and more Metro Vancouver residents riding the region's expanding cycling network.

HUB, host of the popular spring and fall Bike to Work Weeks, recently launched its 2015 series of public cycling education courses and bike maintenance workshops for ages 16+. Last year, participants reported an average, overall increase in cycling of 250%, compared to cycling habits prior to taking a public HUB course.

"We've proven our courses really work to increase cycling, and participants give us great feedback on how they put their learning to use, so we're really excited by this year's line-up of cycling and bike maintenance courses," said Scout Gray, HUB Bike Education program manager. "Last year's participants included some who went from no cycling to cycling occasionally, and others going from occasional to daily cycling."

"Over 40% of Metro Vancouver residents want to cycle more, but don't feel comfortable yet," said Gray. "Our courses remove barriers for people."

Streetwise public bike education is HUB's longest-running program, dating back to 2006. This year, HUB is recognizing the program's close link to Earth Day. "We get more people cycling. In that way, we're generating the kind of positive change that directly benefits people's physical and mental health, our community connections, and our local and global environments." says Erin O'Melinn, HUB's Executive Director.

"This year's Earth Day theme, 'Clean up your Commute', fully supports daily cycling," said Gray. "Road rules and practical cycling tips are at the heart of our courses, and directly contribute to people being comfortable riding on the road. This is one small way we can all take something from Earth Day and apply it to our everyday lives."

HUB is Metro Vancouver's leading non-profit, member-based organization promoting urban cycling. HUB cycling courses are held in community centres and bike shops across Vancouver, with new courses held at select locations across Metro Vancouver, including Coquitlam and Surrey.

Upcoming courses include half-day beginner Ride the Road (April 26, May 10 & 24), 2-hour beginner bike maintenance (May 16, June 7), and 3-hour intermediate maintenance & mechanics (April 30, May 10 & 21).

For more information and to register for a course, visit bikehub.ca/bike-education, or email .