Bike to work - in winter?

Photo: File photo

Friday is Kelowna's annual winter bike to work day.

We may still be in the grips of winter, but that's not stopping a group of dedicated cyclists from taking part in Kelowna's annual winter Bike to Work Day on Friday.

This is the fourth year for the event, which encourages year-round cyclists to compete with cities around the world. The plan is to show their commitment to winter riding, and have something to look forward to during their frosty commute.

Kelowna organizer Landon Bradshaw says one of the biggest things for cyclists is to "know your route."  Not all routes are safe, or plowed.

"Some routes are actually plowed nicely, but it's know your route, know where the potential trouble spots are. For myself, after we got that dump of snow in December, I put on studded tires."

Bradshaw says the event has seen growth each year.

"Last year, we had a little over 100 people who stopped by the different stations around town. We've changed things a bit this year, but we're still expecting between 60 and 80 cyclists to take part, and that's fairly reasonable for Kelowna."

Bradshaw says more than 100 people have registered on the Facebook page.
 
There are five different morning events happening throughout town, where hot beverages and tasty treats are waiting for those who bundle up and pedal in. A wrap-up party will take place at Kettle River Brewing from 5 to 7 p.m. with ChainLine Cycles providing basic mechanical help and a winter cycling presentation by Erika Bullock from UBC Okanagan.

Lions Cyclery will also be offering minor bike adjustments and repairs.