(This story is sponsored by HUB Cycling)

Nancy Kang had not touched a bike in over a decade so she took one of HUB Cycling’s adult cycling courses to regain her confidence riding a bike in Metro Vancouver. 

“I have nothing but good things to say about HUB Cycling’s cycling courses,” Kang says. “All the staff were positive, patient, and kind, from the senior instructor who said I deserved a gold star to the amazing volunteers. I had a terrible time of things last summer due to life circumstances, but this class made me feel happy and empowered.” 

HUB Cycling offers cycling courses for all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just learning to ride a bike for the first time. In-Person courses include: 

• Beginner Bike Skills: Learn the basics of riding on two wheels: balancing, steering & braking. 

• Intermediate Bike Skills: Improve your riding skills and take part in a road ride in the local community with this 2-hour course. 

• Basic Bike Maintenance: Learn how to fix and maintain your bike with a fun interactive course led by an experienced instructor. 

• E-bike Skills: Learn the handling difference between e-bikes and standard bikes, practice your e-bike skills and knowledge, and apply those skills on a local road ride. 
• Women's Summer Cycling Program: Back by popular demand! Over six summer evenings, join a group of other women on their cycling journey as we cover topics like basic maneuvering, how to maintain your bike or plan the safest route in the city. 

Kang was a participant in the Beginner Bike Skills course and boasts that the course provided helpful exercises to improve her rusty cycling skills and also did wonders for her mental health.  

“My teacher David took me and another student on a long path along the lake and I felt part of the world for a moment. The Japanese word for it is yūgen, or a kind of transcendental pause-point where beauty and suffering and profound connection braid together in a mysterious, fleeting way. This sensation arose while I was riding, so I took that away with me after the lesson. Thank you again,” says Kang. 

HUB Cycling’s StreetWise cycling courses run in Vancouver at Trout Lake Community Centre and in Richmond at Thompson Community Centre. Courses range in cost from $5-25; except the multi-session Women’s Summer Cycling Program, which costs $185 but includes all six sessions!  

Start or reignite your cycling journey today and register for a course this summer at bikehub.ca/swcec.