Jason Hanson and Arika Block from Saskatoon Cycles discuss the benefits of winter cycling, challenges like bike theft, and how advocacy shapes safer streets.

Cycling doesn’t have to be just a summer activity. Even in Saskatchewan winters, it can be a year-round transportation option. But what keeps people from cycling more often? 

To understand the benefits and challenges of cycling in Saskatoon, I spoke with two members of Saskatoon Cycles: Jason Hanson and Arika Block. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or considering your first ride, their perspectives might inspire you to get on your bike more often— no matter the season.

Jason Hanson, a lifelong environmentalist and cyclist, is the communications manager for Saskatoon Cycles. He’s had this role since 2022 but has been a member of the organization since its inception in 2010.  

Arika Block, a fourth-year engineering physics student at USask, is a new board member of the organization. She started cycling regularly after moving off-campus in her second year of university. Block shares, “I was walking to school and there were people riding their bikes on the road, and I [thought]  ‘if I had one of those, I could sleep in an extra five minutes!’” She hasn’t looked back since.

When it comes to winter cycling, the pair see it as largely the same as summer cycling. The activity is often viewed as extreme or daunting but Hanson explains that “with slight modifications to your regular cycling habits, [such as]  a few extra layers, maybe some goggles, [and] if the weather gets much colder, mitts and studded tires, your experience riding a bike in the winter is very similar to in the summer.” Like other winter activities and sports, winter cycling can be very enjoyable—as long as you prepare properly.

You also don’t need a shiny new fat tire bike to start winter cycling. Studded tires, which provide more grip on snow and ice, can be swapped with regular tires on most bikes and purchased at any bike shop in the city such as Bike Doctor, Bruce’s Cycle Works, Doug’s Spoke ‘N Sport, and Outtabounds. 

Block, who cycles to school daily, concurs and highlights its practicality. “It’s not having to warm up a car in the morning, or figure out where I’m going to park it, or then have to run halfway across campus from the parking lot.”

For both of them, winter cycling isn’t just about transportation—it’s about the experience. “Those early morning rides on Meewasin, you’re basically by yourself. Maybe there’s the odd person out walking or another cyclist, but it’s dead quiet. Then you just get that crunching of the snow under your tires,” Hanson says. ‘It’s hard to describe, but I wish more people could experience that feeling.'”

But while winter cycling can be rewarding, the two bike enthusiasts understand why many hesitate to take up the habit. Bike theft remains one of the biggest deterrents. In fact, Block had her rear wheel stolen just this fall. 

Hanson hopes for better infrastructure to protect cyclists on campus, such as improved lighting and security cameras. Still, he reminds cyclists that “there’s never any guarantee that your bike’s not going to get stolen. Criminals have pretty sophisticated tools now that they can cut through a U-Lock. If they’re dedicated to a theft, they can make it happen.” However, using high-quality and additional locks for wheels can lower the risk significantly.

Still, Hanson encourages people to try and cycle as often as they can: “If I don’t bike to my work or school because I’m afraid of the bike getting stolen, the thieves have already won. I’ve lost before I’ve even fought.”

In addition to bike theft, the main priority for Saskatoon Cycles is safer roads for cyclists.

“A lot of people get involved because what we do is largely advocacy with [the] City Council and the city administration. So no matter what your background is with cycling, most people are at least interested in making it as safe as possible within the city,” Hanson says. 

Block realized the organization could really make a difference after pushing for specific improvements to the College and Wiggins intersection. The intersection now has a dedicated zone that situates cyclists in front of motorists, increasing visibility and allowing them to control the lane. This change was made in response to the passing of cyclist Natasha Fox in 2023, a turning point for Saskatoon’s cycling community.

Hanson explained that tragic situations like Natasha Fox’s passing give us the knowledge to learn and adapt so that they can be avoided in the future. He shares, “After Natasha Fox’s death, we had between 70 and 100 letters written into the City Council about motions that had to do with fixing up that intersection.” After analyzing the intersection, the road audit revealed that it was one of the busiest in the city. 

He adds, “People like Arika, other people on the board, and just regular membership writing in, makes a huge difference in how seriously Council takes these things.”

Despite the challenges, Hanson and Block believe Saskatoon has the potential to become a more bike-friendly city. With better infrastructure, increased awareness, and more students willing to give cycling a try—even in winter—the future of biking in Saskatoon looks promising.

If you’re interested in getting involved with Saskatoon’s cycling community, there are many upcoming events to check out. Every month, Saskatoon Cycles hosts a “Slow Roll” on the Meewasin Trail. It’s an opportunity for people of all ages and cycling abilities to get together and ride in a fun, laid-back setting. 

Also, February 15 to 23 is Winter BYXE week, an initiative in collaboration with the City of Saskatoon to celebrate cycling. There will be a specific Slow Roll to launch the event, Bike to Work Day commuter stations, a week-long scavenger hunt, and prizes. 

You can keep up with Saskatoon Cycles by following their Instagram page @saskatooncycles or visiting their website, saskatooncycles.org, where you can also sign up to become a member. 

To learn more about winter cycling and safety, check out these resources:

City of Saskatoon – Cycling Safety

EnviroCentre – Your Guide To Winter Cycling