Disclaimer
Cycling is an inherently dangerous sport, whether on the street or on the trails. Nothing you read on our website is a substitute for your own responsibility to ensure that you and those with whom you are riding are doing everything possible to ensure personal safety.
Take a few minutes before every ride to look over your bike and ensure it is in safe working condition. Ensuring proper tire pressure, inspecting tires for cuts or excessive wear, looking for worn shifter or brake cables are just a few examples.
Always wear a helmet, obey the rules of the road or trail, carry a repair kit and bike pump, a cell phone and back up physical map if you have one.
Riding in the bush increases risk of harm. While there may be no vehicle traffic to deal with, other dangers increase. Getting lost, injured or encountering an aggressive bear or cougar, are all possible scenarios. Here are a few suggestions to help try to reduce risks, but again, we cannot accept legal liability or responsibility for your safety:
- Have a riding partner whenever possible, especially if you are riding in remote areas or exploring new trails
- Always wear a helmet and dress/pack appropriately for sudden changes in the weather
- Carry survival gear such as whistle, water, food, matches or lighter, space blanket and first aid kit in addition to the usual repair kit
- Carry a compass and a map of the area you plan to ride, even if also carrying a phone or GPS unit
- Note that many areas are also out of cell phone range should you need emergency help
- Let someone know where you plan to ride and an estimated return time, and try to stay in that area
- Some riders carry defensive gear such as knife, bear bangers and bear spray but this is no guarantee of safety. Be respectful of wildlife and keep your distance whenever possible.