June was Bike Month in Ontario, but who’s to say that the fun can’t continue for the rest of the summer?
There are several bicycle shops in the region to help you get set up, with everything from second hand bikes to specialized steeds. Many of them also offer repairs and servicing. Waterloo Region has one bike rental company which also provides local tours.
Where to Buy and Rent Bicycles
Two well-known local cycling shops with expert customer service teams are McPhail’s Cycle and Sports in Uptown Waterloo and Ziggy’s Cycle in Downtown Kitchener. McPhail’s began in 17-year-old Stu McPhail’s parents’ garage and has been serving the community for 110 years. Today, sibling duo Jennifer and Jordan Bonneville co-own the family business.
Ziggy’s Cycle is run by Marta Generoux, the second-generation owner of her family’s business. Since 1985, Ziggy’s Cycle has supported many local events and cycling clubs, as well as advocated on behalf of local cyclists.
Newer to the cycling scene, though already in business for 11 years, is Black Arrow Cycles in Downtown Kitchener. They specialize in commuter and touring bikes, accessories, offer custom builds and are a full-service shop.
A real community hub, Recycle Cycles, is also located in Downtown Kitchener. Part of The Working Centre, it is a space where people can purchase affordable refurbished bikes—kids’ bikes are $5 to $25 and adult bikes are $60 to $150—volunteer, learn how to fix bikes or meet fellow cycling enthusiasts. They are also piloting the Cycling Smarts school program with the City of Waterloo to educate grade 5 and 6 students.
If you prefer to rent a bicycle, River City Cycle Rentals, located on Peter St. in Downtown Kitchener seconds away from the Iron Horse Trail, has commuter, mountain, road and e-bikes available for four or 24 hours. They also offer three Pedals and Pints tours, along the Iron Horse Trail, to St. Jacobs Village and in “DTK South”.
Stop by Willow River (Victoria) Park on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. or Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to visit Red Raccoon Bike Rescue. A local not-for-profit organization, they assist newcomers to Canada and low- and no-income community members through repairs, servicing and bicycle education.
Where to go with your bike
Bike paths and multi-purpose trails are spread throughout urban and rural areas in Waterloo Region. To plan your two-wheeled explorations, there are several helpful websites such as BikeWR, Ontario by Bike, the Hydrocut, Bikemap.net, GrandTrails.ca and Trailforks.com. Here are a few quick ideas to get you started.
Cambridge
A local favourite, the Cambridge to Paris Trail is an 18-kilometre fine gravel trail that accompanies the Grand River through Carolinian forest, with beautiful views in every season. The bonus with this trail is that there are plenty of food stops to fuel up, refresh at and enjoy along the way.
Another Cambridge trail to put on your list is the 45-kilometre Cambridge Ayr Loop. With a mixture of paved country roads and gravel roads, start your loop at Glen Morris. This one is ideal for those looking to explore historic downtown Galt. It also links up with the Cambridge to Paris Trail.
Kitchener
The 35-kilometre Hydrocut Trail is one of the top mountain biking spots in Ontario. With boardwalks, bridges and technical challenges, there are plenty of opportunities to engage the mind and body. Access to the trails is free to the public. Volunteer committees help maintain the trail and are a great way to connect with fellow adrenaline seekers. Speaking of community, check out their website for special events.
Waterloo
Novice cyclists and families will enjoy the Uptown Waterloo to Downtown Kitchener Loop. At seven kilometres, this urban route offers protected and paved bike paths on flat terrain away from traffic, as well as plenty of food and drink stops.
Townships
The Woolwich Cycling Club offers more than a dozen route ideas on their website, including rest and lunch spots, as well as where to find bathrooms. Some of their routes include the 32-kilometre Woolwich Mountain Run, the 16-kilometre West Woolwich Farm Produce Tour and the 40-kilometre Elmira to Kissing Bridge Cycling Route.
Before You Depart
Before you jet off on an adventure, make sure to be prepared with a helmet, water bottle, sunscreen, layers in case the weather changes and a snack or two. Enjoy!
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