Free programming promotes safe bike habits https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/our-communities/west/2023/07/12/free-progr...

Start your (non-existent) engines!

Manitoba Public Insurance is offering free cycling programs for cyclists of all ages to promote road safety, comfort, and good cycling habits.

Most notable are MPI’s Cycle Safety Bike Rodeos, which will be presented in the highest number of communities ever this summer, after being around for 50 years.

“MPI’s free cycling programming has reached over 12,000 people so far this year, and will grow to over 13,000 Manitobans by the end of the summer,” said Kristy Rydz, manager of communications at MPI. “In 2023, MPI anticipates it will reach approximately 50,000 Manitobans of all ages.”

Cycle Safety Bike Rodeos are available to kids aged between six and 10, every year between May and August

The BEST (Bicycle Education & Training in Schools) program — created and presented in partnership with the Seven Oaks School Division, Green Action Centre, Bike Winnipeg, and the WRENCH — is delivered to students in grades 6 to 8 at over 20 schools in the city.

The program teaches cycling safety basics, such as hand signals, lane positioning, as well as bicycle maintenance — similar to motor vehicles, not all bikes are roadworthy.

“MPI’s goal is to begin sharing road safety messages with Manitobans as early as possible to help everyone learn the rules of the road from a young age,” Rydz said. “By teaching young people how to share the road, first as a cyclist, and then as a driver as they get older, MPI aims to make Manitoba’s roads safer for all road users.”

In Manitoba, drivers and cyclists are expected to share the road. Although cyclists must ride as far to the right side of the street as possible, they judge traffic the same way one would in a car and can ride further into a lane if it’s safest for them.

“Motor vehicles and cyclists share the same roads, the same rights and the same rules,” said Mark Cohoe, executive director of Bike Winnipeg.

The different biking programs all encourage consistent safe practices, proper communication between bikers and drivers, and better navigation of the city’s active transportation system.

Alongside the younger aged education, the corporation will be offering several adult classes, including MPI’s Bike It! for riders aged 16 and older, which will include theory and on-road lessons for participants, separated into daytime sessions throughout the summer.

For older cyclists, Cycling Champions workshops can be arranged for work, neighbourhood groups, or classrooms. This group-oriented (six people or more) program lasts a full day and is a hybrid of presentation and road-based learning. Custom times can be arranged in advance.

At press time, registration is open and programming will be available throughout the summer. To learn more about the mentioned programming or register for a session in advance, visit online at mpi.mb.ca or email roadsafety@mpi.mb.ca

*Emma Honeybun is a reporter/photographer for the Free Press Community Review. She graduated RRC Polytech’s creative communications program, with a specialization in journalism, in 2023.*