McGill continues to expand the resources available to current and aspiring cyclists. This is in keeping with the University’s latest Climate & Sustainability Strategy, which aims to encourage sustainable commuting practices and achieve carbon neutrality by 2040.
Now that the warmer weather is inspiring many of McGill’s faculty, staff and students to get back on a bike, here is a roundup of what’s in store this spring:
Need to refresh your skills?
Vélo Québec is hosting an online workshop with tips and tricks for biking in the city. Staff can register on Minerva and students can register here.
For those who want hands-on experience, New2Wheels, a new student-led initiative supported by McGill’s Sustainability Projects Fund, is hosting an in-person event for beginner and intermediate cyclists who know how to ride a bike but are uncomfortable doing so in the city.
Open to students and staff and led by experienced cyclists, the New2Wheels workshop will review basic road rules then take participants on a neighbourhood bike tour using bike lanes almost exclusively; helmets and bike rentals are included. Interested McGillians can pre-register here.
Need a bike?
Downtown campus is served by multiple BIXI stations, and McGillians qualify for a group discount on seasonal passes.
Macdonald campus’s Stewart Athletic Complex will be providing bike rentals. Bikes are expected to be ready to roll in mid-April, and students and staff can borrow them for up to four hours at a time. All bikes come with a helmet and lock.
Need to park your bike?
Bike racks have recently been added in several locations across the downtown campus.
Outdoor racks were installed west of the Bronfman Building on Sherbrooke St. W., next to the Stewart Biology Building on Docteur-Penfield Ave., and outside the McGill Sports Complex on des Pins Ave. Indoor racks were installed inside the New Residence Hall lobby on Parc Ave.
Please avoid locking bikes to trees, construction fencing, gates and railings.
Need to repair a bike?
Drop by the Flat Bike Collective, located in the basement of the SSMU Building. They host workshops and provide space and tools for anyone wanting to work on their bike.
In addition, there are now four repair stations available on McGill’s downtown campus:
– At the McGill Sports Complex
– On McTavish Street near the Bronfman Building
– At the Milton Gates near the McConnell Engineering Building
– At the Roddick Gates next to the bike racks
Need to shower?
McGill’s Ride and Refresh program is back!
For the third year in a row, the McGill Sports Complex is offering access to shower facilities, towel and basket service, on-site bike parking and more. Registration is expected to open in mid-April.
Need safety tips?
McGill’s Facilities Management and Ancillary Services has compiled basic rules and guidelines for cyclists and pedestrians. Helmets are highly recommended for all cyclists, and they’re mandatory when riding an electric bike.
“Everyone can play a role in integrating sustainability at McGill, and cycling is a fun way to do it,” said François Miller, Executive Director of Sustainability. “We encourage everyone to make the most of McGill’s resources.”