Written by Amy Elvidge, Program Manager
Hockey isn’t the only sport operating year-round in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area– the region has become flush with cycling clubs for riders of all ages and skill levels, offering rides and events all through the year. Clubs range in size, skill and ethos, and are based in nearly every pocket of the region.
After moving from Boston to Toronto in 2019, I was nostalgic for my long-standing Tuesday morning ride group and asked new acquaintances if they knew of any cycling clubs in our area. I was in luck—our neighborhood boasted several clubs, one of which offered early morning rides every day of the week. I quickly signed up for the Morning Glory Cycling Club, which jump started my ability to meet fellow riders at my level and discover the best cycling routes in and around the city.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist that’s recently moved to the area, or looking to try out group riding, it helps to know what’s available and in your neighborhood. Read on to explore community based, non-competitive cycling clubs and meetups based on skill level and municipality.
Know Before You Go:
No Drops – Group rides where no one gets left behind should a rider not be able to hold the pace or if they have a mechanical or flat tire. These rides are best to start with to learn how to safely ride with in group and get to know the route.
Membership Fee – Cycling clubs that require riders to join and pay a membership fee and/or register with the Ontario Cycling Association (OCA). Dues are renewed annually.
Just like going for a solo ride, ride organizers and clubs will expect you to be prepared with hydration, a portable snack, spare tubes and tools, and a willingness to follow the group. If you see a club on this list that requires membership and you’re hesitant about committing, you can always reach out about a trial ride before joining.
Toronto
- ManDem Cycling Club – An inclusive cycling club with weekly rides announced on Instagram. Rides include mixed terrain routes.
- Toronto Cruisers – The Cruisers organize weekly themed and costume rides in the evening through the downtown core. The rides are every Wednesday at 8:15PM, May through August, and depart from Bloor St W and Huron St.
- Queer Bike Club TO – Queer specific cycling group with weekly rides and events announced on Instagram. Rides include mixed terrain routes. Riders must sign a waiver to participate.
- Urbane Adventure Club – Easy-paced group rides organized by Urbane Cyclist bike shop. Weekly rides are announced on Instagram and feature mixed terrain routes in and around Toronto.
- Dismount Bike Shop Community Rides – The Shop organized weekly rides on Wednesday nights. Routes are announced on Instagram. A signed waiver is required to participate in rides.
- Brockton Cyclery – Brockton Cyclery bike shop organizes weekly rides on Friday mornings in the West end and weekend campout rides. Ride and event details are announced on Instagram.
- Bikechain – This community-based DIY bicycle shop organizes Tuesday evening rides leaving from the shop. Route details are announced on Instagram.
GTHA
- Toronto Bicycling Network – TBN is the largest bicycle club in the GTA and offers a wide variety of rides throughout the week and on weekends, catering to all levels of riders, as well as affordable trips outside Toronto and a wide range of winter activities. Routes are all over the GTA with weekend rides venturing outside the city and using GO transit to return. Riders can join TBN or pay a $10 guest fee per ride. Registration is required for all rides.
- Hamilton Glowriders – Hamilton Glowriders organizes a friendly group ride where riders get decked out in lights and glowsticks to spread good cycling vibes. Rides are monthly on Saturday with an 8pm meetup. The route distance is 17 km and the ride lasts around an hour.
- Markham Cycles – Join Markham Cycles for a family friendly, guided group ride to build confidence riding and to explore Markham’s neighbourhoods. Rides will be at a leisurely family-friendly pace and are open to all ages. Riders can borrow bikes for the ride through Markham Cycles Bicycle Lending Library.
- Brampton Community Rides – Free weekly casual rides to explore Brampton by bike followed by free refreshments. Choose between and 5 km or 15 km route. Pre-registration is encouraged.
- Oakville Cycling Club – The Club offers a friendly environment for recreational road riding, training and touring. The Club offers a wide selection of rides throughout the western GTA all week long: Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Halton Hills and beyond. The 21 km/hr and 23 km/hr pace groups are for those that are new to group riding, and the Club has more advanced paced groups as well. Club membership is $50 which covers club-specific insurance.
Did we miss a cycling community that should be on this list? Please let us know at info@pointa.ca.
