As we set our sights on a healthy return to work and school, one of the best ways of getting there is via bike or e-bike. Both seasoned cyclists and new riders can benefit from some key tips for getting around our fair city. Zygg Electric Bikes gathered the most important considerations from avid cyclists in Toronto’s bike-commuting scene and came up with a list of “Hot Tips”.
First up, what better way to get prepared than to hear it from one of Zygg Ebikes’ longest subscribers, LYNN, in her own words:
“ My name is Lynn. I am recently retired, but, until this summer, I worked as a Child and Youth Worker in an Autism Class in the TDSB.
I am presently using the Zygg E- bike model Q. I love the entire look of the bike. It looks like a typical bike, not too chunky. The battery is set into the crossbar so you don't notice it.
I started commuting by bike as soon as I got a Zygg ebike, which was late summer (I think August) of 2020. I would typically take the TTC to my school, which is downtown. Yet, due to the pandemic, I was not comfortable with that. I also wasn't confident I could ride my regular bike that distance, there and back.
I have always loved bike riding. I'm not hard core. I would not go tremendous distances yet it was always a real pleasure of mine.
When I was working, it would take approximately 40 minutes to get from my house to my school. Jane and Annette to Bathurst and College [8.1 km]. Now, I use my bike about 3-4 times a week: for errands, groceries and pleasure riding.
I don't drive, so having this e-bike has given me a tremendous amount of freedom. I can access places that before may have been awkward to get to on transit. My husband will gladly drive me places, but, I don't want to always depend or wait on someone else. Plus, I can go much, much further with less effort. Lol . Especially in this hot, hot weather, it has been a pleasure to ride. Cools you off when you are moving.
I definitely plan my route. I only use routes which have designated bike lanes, which seems to be getting a little better in this city. I do dress appropriately, even wearing long sleeve shirts on a hot day. I am not a 'speed demon' ; most people are going slower than I can go, so generally I try to be patient and not blow past them. I wait for a wide berth to do so.
For me, [traveling via a pedal-assist e-bike] is fantastic. You can go as fast or slow as you want. At times I try to use a lower speed to get some exercise. I would often use Bloor Street to get to work. I loved just sailing past traffic. I'm moving while cars are at a stand still. Not to mention going up hills is a breeze! You are out in the air and sunshine. I was wide awake by the time I got to work, especially on chilly mornings.
Having to park it, lock it, take the battery with you, is a little cumbersome, but totally worth it and understandable. (* Thanks, Lynn!)
In this pandemic it is a safer alternative to riding the TTC. I do respect the speed in which I am going and adhere to all safety rules. “
More hot tips for commuting via bike or ebike:
MAINTENANCE: Make sure your bike is in great shape: check the tire pressure (and keep it pumped for a faster, more comfortable ride); make sure you have reflectors, fenders, a bell/horn and working lights; oil the chain and check that your brake-pads are healthy. The cool thing about a Zygg E-Bike Subscription is that all repairs and maintenance are included. You will receive an electric bike in top-condition and we will make sure it stays that way. There are dozens of free bike repair / maintenance stations throughout the city. Here is a list from the TTC.
GEAR: Get kitted out with the right gear, clothing and accessories:
- A helmet is a must for safety. There are lots of styles to choose from, including light-weight models, and even LUMOS MIPS: the helmet lights up when you are breaking or signaling to turn: Check out Cycle Solutions for the perfect helmet.
- A wind and rain shell is important to keep you comfortable and dry. Rain is just water, learn to embrace it. Sweet Pete’s Bike Shop has you covered.
- Panniers (“saddlebags” or messenger-bags for laptops/files & extra clothing) are the way to go! Backpacks are great for trekking, however, not necessarily for commuting. Let the bike frame carry the weight. Make sure your bag is sturdy and waterproof. Vaude, a top-rated Canadian company, has an awesome selection.
And, recently launched Toronto-based company, Bailey Co. Cycling Goods, has very stylish, “commute to work” panniers.
VISIBILITY: Be seen...and if you think you have been seen, assume you have not. If you are getting squeezed, take the whole lane, do not get locked in, or compromised. Share the road and demand that others do as well. Use your bell/horn and proper arm signals. Stay out of the door-opening-zone of parked cars (a few metres). Use the expanding networking of safe, designated biking infrastructure when possible.
PLAN YOUR ROUTE: Plan your route in advance: study maps, and choose the safest and most interesting route, not necessarily the fastest. If you use Google Maps, for example, enter your start point and destination and click on the “cycling” icon to get the distance and duration. Even do a test ride before you start and find a safe, dry place to lock or store your bike in advance.
SET REALISTIC GOALS: you do not have to commute by bike every day, just do what you can. Be kind to yourself. It is not a race. Leave plenty of time, you are not in a rush.
If you get to your destination early, read a book, grab a coffee, check your emails, call a friend...you will not get points for being the fastest. Also, if on an ebike, think about using your pedal assist in the best mode: Perhaps, try more assist on your way, so you arrive with the least “sweat” and exertion, and save your work-out for the way home, by using less pedal assist. Or, downhills, coast with little assist, and save your charge for the hills.