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York Region is a beautiful place to explore on two wheels. Every day, thousands of residents take to the streets on their bicycles to travel to work or school, or simply to get some exercise. Cycling is a safe, fun and environmentally friendly way to get around - as long as motorists and cyclists share the road, obey all laws under the Highway Traffic Act and ensure they are equipped with appropriate safety equipment.
For Cyclists |
Safety checkEnsure your bike is ready for the road before you take off: Tires and wheels
Chain and gears
Brakes
EquipmentHelmets are the law for riders 18 years old and under, but safety looks smart at every age. While biking is a safe activity, all cyclists should be prepared in case of an accident. HelmetAn approved bicycle helmet can greatly reduce the risk of injury or death in the event of a fall or collision. Ensure your helmet:
Lights, reflectors, bells and hornsThe law requires that you equip your bike with:
Bicycle locksTo prevent your bike from being stolen, invest in a portable, quality bicycle lock. When locking up your bike:
While ridingMaking a turn or changing lanesWhile travelling on the road, cyclists are responsible for signalling to let other road users know their intentions. Cyclists should always signal their movement at intersections and before changing lanes, including while passing moving or parked vehicles. Cyclists should signal early enough to allow other road users time to react. Before making your turn, check over your shoulder and make eye contact with motorists and other road users. Signals
Obeying the rules of the roadYour bike is just like any other vehicle out on the road. If you're taking your bike to the streets, you need to obey the rules of the road:
Remove distractions and focus
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For Motorists |
Making a right turnWhen making a right turn:
Passing a cyclistWhen passing a cyclist:
Opening your doorOpening a car door across a cyclist's path could lead to serious injury. Before opening your door, check your mirror and blind spots for cyclists. |
Our Partners |
Other Resources |
E-Bikes |
E-bikes are motorized bicycles that can look like a conventional bicycle, a scooter or a limited-speed motorcycle. E-bikes must have:
To operate an e-bike, you must:
If the e-bike is designed for two people, the passenger must also be 16 years of age or older and must wear a CSA-approved helmet. You can ride your e-bike on most roads and highways where conventional bikes are permitted, with some exceptions. No e-bikes may be ridden on:
It is illegal to modify your e-bike's motor to make it more powerful or increase its speed. Offences: Same rules of the road as regular cyclists apply
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E-Scooters |
E-scooters are motorized scooters that are designed only for standing. E-scooters must have:
To operate an e-scooter, you must:
It is illegal to modify your e-scooter's motor to make it more powerful or increase its speed. Offences: Same rules of the road as regular cyclists apply |