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Toronto's Best Bike Paths

Toronto's Best Bike Paths

If you're thinking about riding your bike throughout Toronto, safety should be the top priority for you. Whether you're a skilled cyclist or just getting started, it's necessary to remember that biking in a busy city like Toronto has a unique set of risks. But that shouldn't stop you from experiencing the thrill of exploring all that Toronto has to offer on two wheels!

As bikers ourselves, the team at Pendalinx knows just how amazing it can be to feel the nice cool breeze in your hair as you ride through the streets (with a helmet on, of course). But we also understand that safety always comes first. Rest assured, you can have a fun and exhilarating biking experience by complying with some essential bike safety tips and taking full advantage of our list of some of the best bike paths in Toronto. 

We're here to help with all of your biking needs, whether you're in the market for a new bike, repairs, or a tune-up. Take a look at some of our most frequently asked questions for more information on the best bike paths in Toronto!

FAQs

Where can I go biking in Toronto?

 

There are many great places to bike in Toronto, whether you want a relaxing ride or a more challenging workout. Here are a few recommendations:

The West Don Valley Trail

The West Don Valley Trail is a 32-kilometre multi-use path that runs through the Don Valley ravine. The trail is popular for mountain bikers and trail riders because it has a mix of paved and unpaved portions. Just keep in mind that this is more of an advanced trial and can be pretty difficult for beginners.

 

The Waterfront Trail

The Waterfront Trail is a 50-kilometre multi-use path that runs along Toronto's scenic waterfront. The trail provides breathtaking views of Lake Ontario and is ideal for cyclists of all skill levels.

 

The Beltline Trail

Known by most Torontonians, the Beltline Railway trail is a 9-kilometre that offers a mix of industrialized structures and neatly maintained condo gardens.

 

The Betty Sutherland Trail Park

The Betty Sutherland Trail Park is a short 2.2 kilometre that will take you through the woods, over a wooden bridge and onto the other side of the river, where higher ground leads to easy-to-ride bike trails, perfect for your leisurely afternoon activity with friends and family. 

 

 

Is Toronto good for biking?

 

Yes, Toronto is a fantastic city for bicycling! There are numerous choices for bicyclists of all skill levels and pursuits, including bike lanes, shared lanes, and trails. There's something for everybody, whether you want an easy journey through the city's lively neighbourhoods or a more challenging ride along the waterfront trail or around the parks.

The city of Toronto has an extensive cycling system. In addition, the city is seeing an increase in the number of secured bike lanes, which provide an actual barrier between riders and vehicles, which makes it more secure and enjoyable to ride.

Toronto has an energetic cycling culture, with an array of events and amenities for cyclists. The city organizes regular group rides, cycling festivals, and additional events to promote cycling and motivate people to get out and explore the city.

Having said that, Toronto, like any large city, has its obstacles when it comes to cycling. In certain neighbourhoods, traffic can be hefty, and cyclists need to be mindful of possible hazards such as parked vehicles, opening car doors, and other motorists. But rest assured that cycling in Toronto, with proper planning, safe cycling practices, and a little caution, can be a fun and healthy way to get around the city. 

We recommend planning your route beforehand to make sure you know where you’re legally allowed to travel while taking note of any detours or other hazards that may be in the area where you intend to travel. You can also stick to the Toronto best bike paths we’ve mentioned above until you feel more comfortable branching out to more difficult pathways and trails in the future.

 

Do you need a helmet for cycling in Toronto?

 

All cyclists in Toronto are required by law to wear a helmet that complies with specific safety requirements. These requirements make sure that the helmet has undergone rigorous testing and design to offer sufficient impact protection. The helmet must be level and straight on your head, completely covering the highest point of the forehead without falling forward or backward. Modify the chinstrap so that it fits securely under the chin, and your helmet stays firmly in place.

Remember that not all helmets are made equally, and you should select one that adheres to all the safety requirements. Look for helmets with an approved label demonstrating that they satisfy the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or other global safety requirements such as Snell or ASTM for confirmation and peace of mind.

One of the best things that you can do to protect yourself while biking in Toronto is to wear a helmet. In the unfortunate circumstance of a crash or collision, a correctly sized helmet can help stop severe head trauma. It's important to remember that anything from a minor fall from a bike can result in a head injury, and research studies have proven that sporting a helmet reduces the likelihood of being injured in a crash substantially.

 

Are there any rules for cycling in Toronto?

 

If you plan on riding your bike in Toronto, it is essential that you recognize the road rules in order to stay safe and prevent any legal issues. Here are a few key points to remember:

 

  1. Always wear a helmet: First and foremost, wearing a helmet while cycling is required by law in Toronto. As a result, make sure that you have a good one that fits correctly and adheres to approved safety requirements.
  2. Follow traffic laws: When riding your bike, you must follow the same traffic regulations as motor vehicles. This includes, stopping at stop signs, red lights, using hand gestures to indicate where you're headed, and travelling on the right side of the road in the very same direction as traffic are rules you need to follow at all times.
  3. Be visible at night: It's important to use lights on your bike at night to make yourself noticeable to other drivers on the road. The law requires a white light in the front and a red light in the back.
  4. Stay off highways: No bikes, under any circumstances, are allowed to travel on highways. This includes the 401, the Gardiner Expressway, or Don Valley Parkway,
  5. Stay off the sidewalk: Finally, be mindful that using your bike on the sidewalk is illegal in most parts of Toronto. To get around town, you'll have to stay on the main road or find designated bike lanes. Keep in mind, however, that children 10 and under are able to ride their bikes on the sidewalk for safety reasons.

$10 FLAT TORONTO BICYCLE REPAIR IS NOT JUST A RUMOUR

That's right, it is true! We have expert service mechanics who work in our service department and can fix your bike tires so you are back out riding in minutes! All for a cheap fee of $10 - tax included (inner tubes are extra).

Even if you didn't buy your bikes from us, we can service:

Tires | Brakes | Full Inspections | And More

If you need a complete overhaul, let our service mechanics take a look and prepare your bike for whatever repairs it requires. While you're waiting, you can check out our awesome accessories like our bells, lights, and locks - we've got whatever you need so why not visit our Toronto location today!

Bicycle Service & Repair

CYCLE AROUND TORONTO WITH OUR BEST BIKES

Toronto has amazing bike trails that highlight the city's beauty. On these bike rides you can see rivers, ravines and the shoreline. Here are some of the best bike rides than you and your new bike can enjoy!

Lower Don River Trail - Beautiful paved train from the don all the way up to ET Seton park.

Martin Goodman Trail - Otherwise known as the waterfront trail, this route runs right by the lake.

Beyond the Zoo (Taunton Rd.) - Head out to this area by the zoo for a rural experience without having to leave the city.

Humber Valley Heritage Trail - Go slow and enjoy the many trails that snake along the eponymous river.

Trillium Park and William G. Davis Trail - A short trail through the new park and multi-use trail for a delightful view of the skyline.

FREE TEST RIDES FOR OUR BICYCLES

If you are completely new to all things cycling and have no idea what you are looking for, then why not come and have a FREE test ride on any of our bikes? Our staff gives you the opportunity to cruise on a brand new bike.

No need for an appointment - just pop in and have a chat with our friendly staff. They will be able to assist you and answer any questions you may have! You'll have plenty of time to compare similar models so that you walk out with a bike you're confident about.

Shop Bikes

BICYCLE COMPONENTS, PARTS, ACCESSORIES & MORE!

We are not just regular bicycle shop; we are also the best bike mechanics in Toronto. Unlike other bike shops, Pedalinx takes care of all your bicycle and cycling needs. Our Toronto store services and repairs bikes as well as offers a great selection of accessories, gears, and more. From eyewear to lights to safety locks, we've got everything you need to make rides as fun and safe as possible.

We even sell all the necessary tools so you can take care of your bike yourself. If you're worried about ruining your clothes in the weather, we have you covered! From the right shoes to the coolest looking and safest helmet, water bottles, computers, and baskets, you won't need to make any extra purchases anywhere else.

PURCHASING YOUR DREAM BIKE

Being able to afford the bike of your dreams can sometimes be a little tricky; that's why we have partnered up with Financeit - a market-leading payments solution that allows you to pay monthly payments for bikes starting at $500.

We also sell gift cards that you can purchase and give to a loved one or a friend - perfect for Christmas or a birthday! If you know a bike enthusiast and are unsure about their size or preference, then why not visit our Toronto store and purchase a gift card and let them pick what they want?

STOP BY OUR TORONTO LOCATION TODAY FOR A GREAT DEAL ON BIKES OF ALL SIZES!

Toronto Location