Huron County, Ontario – June is Bike Month! Members of the Huron County Cycling Advisory Committee encourage residents to take time this month to rekindle the youthful joy of exploring the county by bike.
“Bike Month is a celebration of cycling and we invite everyone to take some time this month to have fun and enjoy a bike ride or share that joy with the next generation of bike riders,” says Huron County Warden Glen McNeil. “We’re so fortunate to be surrounded by beautiful, rural scenery and diverse landscapes, the perfect backdrop for a cycling adventure through Huron County.”
Cycling is an increasingly popular mode of transportation across Ontario. Recent Ministry of Transportation surveys of road users suggest that approximately 1.2 million adults in Ontario ride a bicycle daily during the spring, summer and fall, and 2.8 million people ride at least once a week.
Cycling helps people develop healthy habits for life and offers many benefits to the community such as reducing traffic congestion, increasing economic development through cycling-tourism and playing a role in improving air quality for the environment.
Drivers can support cycling community members by:
- Shutting the door on distraction: Keep your eyes on the road, hands on the wheel and mind focused on the task of driving.
- Sharing the road: Always give at least one metre when passing (it’s the law) and wait until it’s safe to do so, reducing speed, and checking blind spots when turning. If using on-street parking, check for cyclists before opening the door.
Cyclists can do their part to share the road by:
- Being seen: Wear high visibility clothing during the day; if cycling at low-light times make sure the bike is well-lit and wear retro-reflective clothes. Use a bell to help others see you. Ride 1 metre from the curb or parked cars to make it easier for motorists to see and respect your path.
- Being predictable: Ride in straight lines, on the right side of the road and use hand signals to indicate your movement intentions and adhere to the rules of the road.
Cyclists are encouraged to plan routes for places that feel enjoyable and comfortable. Consider which roads or trails suit best and consider what time works best based on traffic or lighting considerations.
The Goderich to Guelph (G2G) Rail Trail is a safe place for cyclists of any age or skill level to enjoy Huron County. Plan a route at g2grailtrail.com.
Find out more about the Huron County Cycling Strategy on Facebook at www.facebook.com/huroncountycyclingstrategy.
The County of Huron asks the community to continue respecting all public health guidelines, including performing hand hygiene, practicing physical distancing, and wearing masks. Stay informed on the COVID-19 situation in Huron County by visiting the Huron-Perth Public Health website.