Cycling

Challenges for cyclists arrive with warmer weather

Apr 21, 2026 | 5:25 PM


PRINCE GEORGE – With the snow melted and warmer temperatures arriving the City of Prince George will be seeing an increase in alternative modes of transportation. Alternative modes of transportation include bicycles, e-bikes, scooters, motorcycles and mobility scooters. It is important for cyclists to understand the risks associated with road travel and take every precaution before hitting the road.

“When you first pull out the bike you have to make sure that your bike is roadworthy. If your bike’s not roadworthy you shouldn’t be on the road. You have to make sure that all the components are working. The biggest thing for bike safety starts with knowing your bike and knowing how you can use it safely and that’s where we end up on the road. We need to make sure that we understand that we’re sharing the road and are considered a moving vehicle in the same direction.” said Tour de North lead trainer Ron Gallo.

With spring clean-up of roadways under way there are still many streets which aren’t cleared of gravel or displaying painted proper lane indicators and this can pose additional challenges for cyclists. With those added risks comes the responsibilities of understanding the roads you are travelling and what is expected without infringing on other alternative modes of transportation.

“A sidewalk is for pedestrians and pedestrians only. We’re starting to see more cyclists move to the sidewalk because they feel that it’s safer but we have to remember that there’s vulnerable road users that are walking, that are on scooters, that are on wheelchairs, have mobility issues and can’t get out of the way in time. ” added Gallo.

Prince George RCMP say responsibilities go both ways in regards to motorists and alternate modes of transport and state that educating yourself of what is expected of you on the road goes a long way.

“If you’re an alternate road user so a motorcyclist, a bicyclist, a scooter user, someone who’s not driving a vehicle, it’s your responsibility to make sure you know the rules of the road that pertain to your mode of transportation. Are you supposed to use the sidewalk or the shoulder? Are you allowed on the sidewalk at all or is that a risk for our pedestrians? What are your responsibilities when you approach an intersection, a four way stop or a lighted crosswalk? Where are you supposed to be in those instances? And make sure you’re following the rules of the road to keep yourself safe and everyone around you safe.” said Corporal Jennifer Cooper of the Prince George RCMP.

Safety tips for cyclists include always wearing a helmet, wearing bright reflective clothing, equipping the bicycle with lights and familiarizing yourself with hand signals.