Newcomer Programs
HUB Cycling offers a range of courses and programs targeted specifically to recent immigrants and refugees to Canada. These programs provide the support needed for newcomers to build the skills, knowledge and motivation to give cycling a try in their new home.
The programs below are delivered in partnership with immigrant serving organizations and agencies across Metro Vancouver, such as the Immigrant Services Society of BC, MOSAIC and local Neighbourhood Houses.
Download our Newcomers Guide to Cycling in Vancouver here.
Newcomer Bike Mentorship program
Interested in learning more about the Newcomer Bike Mentorship Program? Check out the Bike Mentorship program page on our website.
Newcomer Learn To Ride courses
HUB delivers targeted cycling courses to introduce immigrants and refugees to Metro Vancouver cycling culture, infrastructure and rules. Starting in-class and moving to on-road, Newcomer Learn to Ride courses are a fun, practical and hands-on way for all ages and abilities to become comfortable riding for transportation in Metro Vancouver. These courses are specialized for newcomers, and delivered at various skill levels - from participants who are just learning to balance and pedal for the first time, to those who have basic cycling skills and are ready to learn about riding safely and joyfully in the city. HUB provides bikes and helmets for instruction. We work closely with service providers to recruit and engage immigrant newcomers and ensure that our courses are meeting their unique needs.
Course participants learn:
- How to balance on, pedal, steer and brake on a bicycle
- Basic cycling skills including straight-line riding, turning, braking, shoulder checks, and hand signals
- Canadian and Metro Vancouver city cycling culture and trends
- How to ride legally and safely on urban roads and bike routes in a Canadian context
- Information about Metro Vancouver urban cycling infrastructure and safety equipment
- How to communicate effectively with other road users
- What to wear to be safe and seen, and to cycle in different conditions
- The dynamics of bike storage, security, and theft prevention
- How to assess a bike's condition, and make basic adjustments to keep a bike operating well
- How to access and use Metro Vancouver route planning resources.
Interested in hosting a Newcomer Learn to Ride course at your organization? Contact streetwise@bikehub.ca