What is the safety culture of the club?

New members are encouraged to join our orientation and skills sessions, where we cover safe group riding practices and etiquette, core riding skills, and the hand signals we use to keep everyone in sync. These on-bike lessons happen in a calm, controlled setting—think parking lots and quiet roads—so you can focus on learning without the traffic stress

We also host regular “Welcome to Group Riding” rides, a relaxed way to learn safe group riding while enjoying a normal club outing. As a member, you also have access to a First Aid course and the CAN-BIKE course at minimal cost. Led by a Cycling Canada certified instructor, CAN-BIKE helps you broaden your skills and build confidence—especially for group riding.

Helmets are required on all club rides, and bikes must be in good working order with a bell or horn. A mirror,front light and rear reflector are strongly recommended.

Does the club have insurance?

KNBC carries general liability insurance to protect the Club, its members, and its directors. If a third party makes a legal claim for injury or property damage related to a club activity, the Club’s insurer will handle the legal defence and associated costs.

KNBC’s insurance does not cover personal injury or death. Members are encouraged to ensure they have appropriate personal medical insurance. 

What Is the club's approach to riding?

KNBC’s approach to riding is simple: ride at a pace that feels comfortable and enjoy the experience. Our rides are about good company, fresh air, and scenic routes—not racing. The club adheres to a "no rider left behind policy" ensuring that tour leaders and participants actively support and look out for one another.

Unlike some cycling clubs, KNBC generally does not ride in tight pace lines. Riding closely together requires constant focus on the wheel ahead, which can take away from enjoying the scenery and social side of the ride. Our style encourages relaxed riding, conversation, and awareness of your surroundings.

What ride levels are available? 

KNBC offers five ride levels, so you can pick the one that fits your pace. Feel free to try different levels on different days! Just make sure you can keep the necessary pace for the full ride—it makes the ride more fun for you and easier for everyone in the group.

Tip: If you’re unsure which level to choose, ask the Tour Leader—they’re happy to help you find the right fit.

Where do you ride?

Within Ottawa, rides use paved pathways, bike lanes, and quiet residential streets. Outside the city, we focus on quieter paved country roads, minimizing busy traffic whenever possible. Some rides may include short sections of unpaved road or trail, which are noted in the ride description. KNBC also offers gravel rides for those interested in this growing style of cycling.

Our route library contains over 500 routes covering a large part of Eastern Ontario, although many rides start from the west end of Ottawa.

How do I join a ride?

Full details for all rides are available on the KNBC event calendar on the website or through the Wild Apricot mobile app. You can view rides by week or month to help plan ahead.

To join a ride, simply register through the calendar on the website or mobile app. Registration is required for insurance purposes and helps us manage group size, share updates, and collect required acknowledgements.

There’s no additional cost to join day rides—your KNBC membership covers all one-day rides throughout the season. Multi-day rides require a small contribution to help offset tour scouting and planning costs. Members are responsible for their own meals, refreshments, and accommodation on multi-day rides.

How long are the rides?

Most rides start between 9:00 and 10:30 AM, depending on distance and location. We usually return by 3:00 to 4:00 PM, depending on the ride level and distance covered. Remote starts require additional travel time.

How many people are on a ride?

Typical rides will have 8 to 16 riders, but popular rides or special events may attract larger numbers. When there are more than 8 people on a ride, we break into smaller groups.  

How old do I need to be to join?

KNBC members range in age from their thirties into their eighties, with an average age of 68. Membership is open to adults of any age with an interest in medium to long distance cycle touring. 

What type of bike do I need?

Choosing a bike is a personal decision—what works for one rider may not work for another.

• Within KNBC, hybrid, road, gravel, and pedal-assist e-bikes are all popular choices.
• Road bikes are typically the fastest, while hybrids and gravel bikes offer more flexibility on a variety of surfaces.
• Only pedal-assist e-bikes are permitted on club rides. Riders should be mindful of the additional weight and faster acceleration these bikes can have.
• Mountain bikes are generally not well suited to medium or long-distance road riding due to heavier frames and higher rolling resistance.
• No matter the bike type, proper fit is essential. A local bike shop can help ensure your bike is adjusted for comfort and safety.

What else do I need?

Essentials:

• Helmet (required; replace every few years or after a crash)

• Water bottles and cages

• Pump

• Bell or horn

• Mirror

• Flat tire repair kit and spare tube

• Bike lock

Helpful extras:

• Gloves, padded shorts, cycling jacket

• Rear rack or saddle bag

• Bike computer

• Rear-facing daytime light for visibility