World Bicycle Day

World Bicycle Day History

World Bicycle Day celebrates the bicycle as a simple, affordable, and environmentally-friendly mode of transportation. This global observance highlights the role of the bicycle in promoting health, sustainable development, and cultural heritage, as well as fostering connections between communities. Participating in World Bicycle Day is an excellent way for Canadians to engage in physical activity, enjoy the great outdoors, and contribute to a greener, more connected nation.

The United Nations General Assembly declared June 3 as World Bicycle Day in April 2018. This observance resonates particularly strongly with Canadians, as the bicycle is an essential aspect of the country's commitment to fostering healthy, sustainable living. Canada boasts an extensive network of cycling infrastructure, ranging from urban bike lanes to scenic rural trails. By participating in World Bicycle Day, Canadians can raise awareness about the benefits of cycling, encourage their fellow citizens to take up this healthy and eco-friendly habit, and advocate for continued improvements to cycling infrastructure in their communities.

Typically, Canadians celebrate World Bicycle Day by attending community bike rides, seminars on cycling safety and maintenance, and other bicycle-themed events. Schools and local organizations often hold educational sessions or workshops to promote cycling as a means of transportation, recreation, and exercise. Many Canadians also mark the occasion by cycling to work or school, thereby reducing their greenhouse gas emissions and setting a positive example for others to follow. World Bicycle Day is observed on June 3 each year.

World Bicycle Day facts

• Bicycles convert about 98% of the energy a person exerts into forward motion, making them more energy-efficient than any other means of transportation.
• It is estimated that there are over one billion bicycles worldwide, outnumbering cars by more than two to one.
• The credit for inventing the first pedal-powered bicycle, known as the "velocipede" or "boneshaker," goes to Karl Drais, a German baron, who introduced it in 1817.
• The first recorded bicycle ride in Canada occurred in 1866 when John C. Maxwell rode a velocipede, known as a "boneshaker," down a street in Montreal.
• The Great Trail, also known as the Trans Canada Trail, is the world's longest network of multi-use recreational trails. It spans over 27,000 kilometers from coast to coast. It offers cyclists the chance to explore Canada's diverse landscapes, from urban centers to remote wilderness areas.

In the News and Trending in Canada for World Bicycle Day

Top things to do in Canada for World Bicycle Day

• Go cycling! Cycling can be a great form of exercise that benefits both mental and physical health.
• Make your bike is properly maintained. Regular maintenance is an important part of cycling that can be done at home or a bike shop.
• Watch a documentary about biking in Canada. Here are our top picks:
  1. Veer (Bikes) (2018) - Directed by Ali Weinstein, this documentary short is about Edmonton's growing bicycle community and the bold, committed individuals who are cycling for transportation, activism, and personal growth.
  2. Bike City, Great City (2013) - Directed by David Chernushenko, this documentary showcases the potential for a more bike-friendly city and the positive changes that can result from increased bicycle infrastructure.
  3. Marinoni: The Fire in the Frame (2014) - Directed by Tony Girardin, this documentary tells the story of Giuseppe Marinoni, an Italian-Canadian bicycle frame builder who broke a world record at age 75.
• Celebrate World Bicycle Day and enjoy the natural beauty of Canada's national parks by cycling on their extensive bike trails. Check out the Banff Legacy Trail in Banff National Park, the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, or the Kouchibouguac National Park in New Brunswick.