*(Note also the cc: to transportation critics - not that I'm convinced only words will change Dofo's mind at this point)

To: minister.mto@ontario.ca cc: JFrench-QP@ndp.on.ca, JHarden-QP@ndp.on.ca, mschreiner@ola.org, AHazell.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org

Minister,

You are putting the safety of my kids at risk by removing bike lanes and hindering active transportation.

Hindering cities to promote active transportation is the most unconservative policy ever: you are hindering the freedom of cities to choose; the freedom of citizens to choose a cheap mobility option; and keeping citizens locked in to a very expensive way of getting around.

Our household has chosen to be carless to be financially and ecologically responsible (for now at least).

It is fiscally irresponsible for your government to hinder active transportation plans and help keep people dependent on expensive, lethal mobile living rooms (the things you call « cars »).

Not only is it fiscally irresponsible towards Ontario households but also towards municipal public treasury. Former London Ontario resident Jason Slaughter argues this very well https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Nw6qyyrTeI

The private automobile car is the least efficient way to move a large number of people around over inner-city distances. From an energy, fiscal and ecological standpoint: a dependency on it screams inefficiency. There is nothing « conservative » about this; only to pander political points.

There is a shopping mall here in Ottawa which on Sunday, takes 40-50 minutes to get by bus. But a mere 12 minutes by bike. But what is missing? Safe cycling infrastructure. The bicycle is such a cheap way of getting around, even in winter (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uhx-26GfCBU).

I’m not arguing that YOU should get around by bike all the time; I’m arguing YOU, with your political power, should give US the freedom to choose.

My son may go to high school in 8 year from now. If we are to continue the fiscally and ecologically responsible choice of staying free of car ownership (but not car usage – we have access to VrtuCar), he will have to cross TWO 4 lane roads. But projects for active transportation will be hindered just because your boss (and you?) want to score political points through ignorance. Shame, shame, shame.

Just a reminder that sunset is 4:43pm on Monday (thanks time change), so now is the time to check if you can find your bike lights, confirm they still work, and attach them to your bike.

The following ward councillors did NOT sign the open letter to the Premier re: Bill 212. Does anyone know why they would chose not to sign?

Matt Luloff - Ward 1 Orleans East-Cumberland
David Hill - Ward 3 Barrhaven West
Cathy Curry - Ward 4 Kanata North
Clarke Kelly - Ward 5 West Carleton-March
Tim Tierney - Ward 11 Beacon Hill-Cyrville
Catherine Kitts - Ward 19 Orleans South-Navan
George Darouze - Ward 20 Osgoode
David Brown - Ward 21 Rideau-Jock
Steve Desroches - Ward 22 Riverside South-Fidnlay Creek
Allan Hubley - Ward 23 Kanata South
Wilson Lo - Ward 24 Barrhaven East

I guess these people don't care if people continue to die on City streets?

With the amount of rain that's falling tonight and the remaining leaves, those wet carpeted MUPs are going to be slick in the morning. Don't be that person who wipes out on the way to work.

https://www.arieltroster.com/cycling_ayn_2024

I'ts my first year commuting by cycle in Ottawa. With the shorter days I noticed this week that not very many of the lights on the canal MUP are lit. It rarely seems even 50/50. Large stretches of darkness after Bronson toward Bank, and then again after Pretoria towards Corktown bridge. Is this another 'normal' sub-standard level of safety and service that we have to get used to?

Hey guys so I’m looking at buying the Canyon Aeroad bike ever since I learned you don’t pay duties for them but I had one other question for anyone who has a canyon or if you’d have an idea. Is there a bike shop you take your canyon too?

I know that the canyon sales model is technically not bike shop friendly so idk if taking it to my regular shops like full cycle quick cranks or the cyclery would make them feel some type of way. Maybe it’s a dumb thought but I’m just curious what people think. Does it matter?

Looking for an update. Is road work complete? Can one cycle all the way into Wakefield now??

Anyone aware of published winter cycling infrastructure maintenance plans or resources for checking which routes will generally be kept clear of snow? I haven't had to winter commute since 2020, and even then the city seemed to do something different every year.

I'm trying to find or organize a bike protest for the new legislations preventing new bike lanes without provincial approval:

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.cbc.ca/amp/1.7352228

Last year I did critical Mass out of Confederation park. Do they still do that?

Just wondering if anyone has switched to/tried TPU tubes, is their price really worth it?

Looking for something that'll keep me warm until the temperature drops to freezing

Hi everyone,

I just recently moved to Ottawa from BC and was hoping to get some recommendations for the road/gravel riding around here. I mostly have a background in MTB with some road.

I was thinking of getting a gravel bike to be able to better explore Gatineau hills etc (based out of Hintonburg currently) but would ideally like one bike that can do it all and may do some group road rides/races in the future.

I spoke with someone at a local shop who mentioned that a lot of the trails around here are pretty hard packed and could be handled by an all road bike (like a Trek Domane) but he wasn't too familiar with the Gatineau area so now I am thinking that might be a better option for me but unsure if it would work with local trails.

Was hoping someone with some local expertise could chime in on the conditions of most of the trails/gravel rides around the area and if I would be able to get by with something like an all road bike with 32 tires for example or if the trails are generally too chunky/rough for that.

I know I am probably a little late for this year, but hoping to buy something in the next month or so ideally while there are some good sales.. thanks for any advice!

Shameless Edit: Surprised by the amount of responses this post has gotten and really appreciative of it! I'm 30 and a pretty avid skier and mountain biker. Looking to continue to do that while also pivoting into more road/gravel riding and potentially buying an XC ski set up for easy access in the winter and check out the river wave.. new to the city and know almost no one so if anyone wants to hang or show me around it would be greatly appreciated!

Since moving, my commute via bike is around 8km, or about 20min, one way via MUP. Takes nearly the same amount of time to drive. The bus is over double the amount of time.

Winter is fast approaching and I am dreading not being able to cycle to work given I ride a steel frame bike with good components.

So, to get some inspiration for a winter commuter setup:

• What bicycle/ components do you use?
• How do you maintain your winter bike?
• What are your tips for comfortable, safe winter commuting?
• What is your experience navigating MUPs, like the Rideau River Eastern Pathway, in the winter?

I’ve seen a couple X mentions of the new/restored pathway along Line 2 between South Keys and Earl Armstrong being open. Has anyone actually ridden it? Surface type? Condition?

Any issues with the road conditions on the Gatineau Parkway? I was thinking of heading out there this weekend. I know they had some roads wash out earlier this summer but I'm just wondering if everything is back to normal.

Anyone know what’s happening on the Voyageur’s Pathway between CWC and Champlain? I ran by today and saw signs up but couldn’t stop to see what was going on. Curious because I love riding along the Voyageur’s Pathway now that it’s finally fully open again and that’s the route I take to get into Gatineau Park. Checked the NCC website and couldn’t find anything.

I'm hoping to set a goal to ride more events next year. Preferably in Ottawa but wouldn't mind going an hour or so away. I do mostly road, in decent shape and cycle lots so doesn't matter how long/short/elevation. So far I know of the CN cycle ride. I'm looking for anything that's a race, time trial, or just ride event. I could also venture into gravel events but not too technical since I lack experience in that. I've heard of big red but not sure how hard that one is... Looking for ideas, thanks!

The Road Cycling World's Championships (elite men) is today in Zurich. There's two Ottawa area riders in it. Derek Gee and Mike Woods. You can follow the ticker at www.cyclingnews.com. The race should finish at around 11:45 am.

I'm a new cyclist, didn't have this much experience with bikes (last time I rode regularly was like 10 years ago when I was a child) so in the last 2 weeks I had rented 2 different bikes: Giant 3 escape XL and momentum vida L. With the first one I've ridden for like about 12 KM along the rideau canal pathway. while with the other one I got to ride for 20 km in one hour and 10 mins on the same pathway. I found the momentum vida much more comfortable. I'm considering buying one but I'm really hesitant since this will be my first winter here in ottawa (and in canada in general) and I don't want to spend like 600$ just to find out I will not be able to ride for most of the winter season. So I was thinking about these options:

1. wait until the winter comes and rent a bike and see for myself if it is doable to bike in winter or not.
2. Buy a used bike with low budget (250$ max)

my problem with first option that I'll need to wait (I only rent once a week), and I really enjoy biking so I feel like I'm missing out when the weather is good.
and my problem with the other option is that I will not be able to test a used bike for a long commute like I did when I rented. so it will be a matter of luck I guess, but in worst case scenario I would be re-selling it for the same or a little bit lower price.
so I guess I'm leaning towards option 2, but would like to get others' insights as well.
sorry for the long post.

After couple years of cycling, I finally had the courage to tackle on the gats loop and just like many others, I very much regret not doing it sooner!! It's amazing, beautiful and a blast.

I'm in no way a great climber, but if you're hesitating - just know that first hill up pink lake feels the worst 😅. Once you're past that and your legs are all warmed up, you'll be shocked how quick the rest of the ride goes.

Do you prefer clockwise or counterclockwise?