1. What is the Safety Culture of the Club?
2. Why do we have insurance, and what does it cover?
3. What is KNBC's approach to riding?
4. How do I find out about a ride?
5. How do I join a ride?
6. Do I pay anything extra for each ride?
7. Can you explain the different levels of rides?
8. For a day trip what is the ETA at the endpoint?
9. How many people are on day rides?
10. What are the ages of the people in the groups?
11. What sorts of roads and trails do you ride on?
12. What sort of bike should I buy?
13. What else do I need?

Safety at KNBC

KNBC encourages safe riding and supports all members—new and experienced—in building their skills. Members are encouraged to take CANBIKE 4 training, with 50% of the fee reimbursed after leading a club ride.

Each ride begins with a brief safety tip from the Tour Leader. If you have a safety concern, you’re encouraged to share it with the Safety Advisor. Concerns can be addressed anonymously through safety tips featured in our weekly newsletter, Bike Shorts.

Everyone is responsible for their own safety. Under the Ontario Highway Traffic Act (HTA), cyclists are treated as drivers, with the same rights and responsibilities.

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.

Insurance at KNBC

Liability Coverage
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, Premier Marine, will handle the legal defence and associated costs.

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

Riding with KNBC

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.

Every ride has a Tour Leader and a Sweep. The Tour Leader manages the ride, while the Sweep—an experienced cyclist—rides at the back to make sure everyone is doing well and to help if any issues arise.

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.

Finding a Ride

Finding a ride is easy. Full details for all rides are available on the KNBC Club Calendar on the website or through the Wild Apricot mobile app. You can view rides by week or month to help plan ahead.

The weekly newsletter, Bike Shorts, usually highlights upcoming rides, but new rides can be added at any time so it’s a good idea to check the calendar regularly. Any cancellations or changes are updated on the calendar as soon as possible, and registered riders are notified by email.

Joining a Ride

To join a ride, simply register through the club 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.

RIDE COSTS

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.

RIDE LEVELS 

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.

Ride Timing

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, sometimes a little later. Remote starts may require additional travel time.

Group Size

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.  

AGES

The median age of KNBC riders is 67. Membership is open to anyone 18 and over, and riders of all ages and experience levels are welcome.

Roads and Trails

Within Ottawa, rides use paved pathways, bike lanes, and quiet residential streets. Outside the city, we focus on quiet 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.

Choosing a bike

Choosing a bike is a personal decision—what works for one rider may not work for another. In general, bikes fall into four main categories: mountain, hybrid/touring, road, and e-bikes.

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

• Flat tire repair kit and spare tube

• Bike lock

Helpful extras:

• Gloves, padded shorts, cycling jacket

• Rear rack or saddle bag

• Bike computer or mirror

• Rear-facing daytime light for visibility

Note: If you ride in Quebec, be sure to check current laws regarding mandatory visibility accessories.