Biking in Vancouver

Vancouver is a bike-friendly city–and getting friendlier every year.

With the stated goal of becoming the world’s greenest city by 2020, Vancouver has made cycling a transportation priority.

It’s now easier than ever for cyclists to feel confident on city streets thanks to the extensive network of dedicated bike lanes that criss-cross the urban core. Two-wheel commuter traffic is growing slowly but steadily in Metro Vancouver.

Bike rentals in Vancouver

Renting a bike is a great way to explore the city centre and surrounding neighbourhoods. For about $6/hour–or less for a day-rate–you can have the use of a late-model multi-speed cruiser bicycle from shops located throughout the city. Look for concentrations of bike rental shops in the West End along Davie Street near English Bay; at the north end of Denman Street near the entrance to Stanley Park; and  along the Coal Harbour seawall near the convention centre. No reservations are necessary.

Bike tours in Vancouver

Vancouver Urban Adventures and City by Cycle offer half-day hosted bike tours of Vancouver that cover local highlights such as Stanley Park, Granville Island and Chinatown. Advance  booking is required.

Good to know:

• Bike helmets are mandatory and will be supplied at bike rental shops.

• Bikes can be transported on public transit, with some restrictions during rush hours. Check TransLink for details.

• Bike traffic around the Stanley Park seawall is one-way, counter-clockwise.

• The City of Vancouver produces a pocket-sized map showing the city’s bikeways. Request a copy by e-mail to: bikevancouver [at] vancouver.ca or download a PDF version. Maps are also available at Vancouver libraries, community centres and some bicycle stores.

• Always lock your bike. Bike theft is a problem in Vancouver.

• Biking is thirsty work. Download the Tap App to your smart phone for a handy guide to the nearest public water fountain in Metro Vancouver.

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>>Photo: Tourism Vancouver