MEC’s Bikefest marks one of the traditional starting points for ‘bike season’ in Winnipeg.
Spring has sprung in Winnipeg, which has many people putting their mettle to the pedals.
In what has become a growing springtime tradition, Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) is once again hosting its popular biking event geared towards preparing cyclists for the season.
The 7th annual MEC Bikefest takes place this Sat. June 13, at the downtown MEC location, 303 Portage Avenue from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This year’s event welcomes cyclists of all skill levels, while putting the spin on high performance road cycling and mountain biking.
“We love bikes, so we’re throwing a party in their honour,” says Zoe Matties, MEC Bikefest Coordinator. “We’re inviting anyone and everyone interested in cycling to come down to MEC, join in the fun, and connect with Winnipeg’s cycling community.
“If you’re a high performance cyclist or mountain biker, then you’ll especially want to come out. We’ll be putting a little extra focus on these areas.”
The timing is particularly good, too, as June 13 marks the start of a weeklong celebration.
“Bike Week Winnipeg was created to increase awareness of biking in our city, and get people thinking about riding for fitness, for recreation, for commuting, or just for fun.”
Bike Week Winnipeg hosts close to 50 events in every corner of the city, including group rides, workshops and other gatherings meant to encourage Winnipeggers to get on their bikes. And it all kicks off this Saturday at MEC.
MEC’s Bikefest is all about turning people onto cycling.
Many activities will be taking place at MEC Bikefest, such as free basic tune-ups, demonstrations and test rides of new models, clinics covering topics like bike maintenance, road bike basics, bike fitting, and an expert seminar on fitness for cyclists.
As well, anyone looking for a used bike might find what they are looking for at Bikefest. The always popular gear swap allows you to buy, sell or trade your stuff, while perusing some of the great deals on bikes, clothing and accessories.
MEC enhances the shopping experience with complimentary iced coffee poured by Parlour Coffee, and by providing a crafts station where kids can make cool bike decorations.
MEC staff will also be leading group rides to test the endurance of cyclists. Elite riders will head out at 10 a.m., and everyone else wanting to improve their road skills will hit the road at 1:30 p.m.
Whether you are looking for inspiration to get biking, or an opportunity to increase your confidence on two wheels, you’re likely to find it this weekend at MEC Bikefest.
