Winter Cyclists in the National Post

My son and I biked to Avenue Road Arts school today - my first winter cycling experience. We both found it more pleasant than we expected - three blocks into the ride we were already sweltering and stripping off layers. And there were entire blocks where the bike lane on Davenport was completely free of snow and parked cars and cycling was downright glorious.

But I'm still not ready to make cycling my primary mode of winter transporation. Tightrope biking between the snow in the bikelanes and the cars whipping past on our left (man, do they ever go fast on Davenport) was way too stressful. This is my baby in front of me people - slow down!!! Intersections were particularly difficult, as we were herded to the right at the light, but had to regain our spot after the intersection: on the left of the snowbanks and parked cars as a stream of vehicles sped past without leaving any space for us.

I was impressed that my son, who is neither athletic nor adventurous, enjoyed the experience. But, like me, he also found it stressful. Ploughing and physical barriers would go a long way towards making winter cycling a more regular mode of transportation for us.

Thanks Annie - I am so glad to hear that you were inspired to try it! Other people have told me the same. Like you, I am still not able to do my long commute on my crappy bike every day, but bit by bit I am taking the winter back on two wheels! It feels great when I do ride (of course) but you are right - there are still too many obstacles to make it a 100% pleasant experience (still, it is often more pleasant - or at least faster - than the alternatives.)
thanks for sharing - and kudos to you for getting your son into the fun!
tammy