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With relatively flat agricultural land, picturesque countryside and meandering rivers, as well as quaint country towns and the city of London, Middlesex County offers cyclists experiences of all kinds. Road riding in Southwest Ontario is second to none!

  

There are also plenty of fantastic trails to explore which can be found by picking up the Middlesex County Trails Guide or viewing it online. This trails guide has information on off-road trails, including details on parks and rail trails open to hikers, cyclists, and other recreational users.  

  

  

Cyclists looking for an urban cycling experience can explore the city of London or wind their way along the nearly 40km of paved, multi-use paths that make up the Thames River Parkway. Heading into London? Check out London's downloadable Bike & Walk Map before you go, to find great cycling in the city.

  

If an adrenaline fix is what you need, Boler Mountain, just south west of downtown London, is the place. For $8.00 pick up a day pass to access their mountain bike facilities, including 120 acres, offering some of the best cross country terrain in Ontario. 

  

For more information of great on-road and off-road cycling experiences plus certified bicycle-friendly businesses in the region, visit our Great Places to Cycle page for Southwest Ontario - Elgin, Oxford and Middlesex.

  1000 Islands Parkway Trail Repaved

The highly anticipated resurfacing of the 1000 Islands Parkway Recreational Trail, a part of the Waterfront Trail, has recently been completed. 

The well used pathway, running 37 km along the north-side of the 1000 Islands Parkway between Gananoque and Brockville, had sections that had seen better days. Thanks to the efforts of the St Lawrence Parks Commission and numerous partners, that's all changed now that the resurfacing has been finished!  

Boasting panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River, an UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the 1000 Islands National Park, beaches and picturesque rest areas with washrooms, this off-road multi use trail is ideal for all types of riders.

Why not make a weekend (or more) out of it, while staying and visiting local bicycle-friendly businesses, certified by Ontario By Bike? Take your time to explore this unique area of the province, with world-class hiking, kayaking, diving or swimming, as well as soaking up the culture at local theatres, heritage sites and festivals. 

Whether commuting, heading out for a multi-day excursion, or simply taking supplies for a day out on our bikes, we all need a little extra storage. What's worse, is that in these muggy summer days throwing on a backpack can leave your back all sticky and sweaty. It can also heat up your core body quickly, making mountains out of anthills!

1. Styles - From the colourful examples above to those more utilitarian-focused, from those that offer maximum capacity to those that offer maximum style, panniers literally come in all shapes and sizes. It's always important to consider how you'll be using your pannier the most. If you're using it everyday and simply are looking for durability, then consider quality over 'flash and features'. If you're more style conscious however, we understand that too.
2. Proper Mounting - It's one thing to have functional (or fanciful) panniers, but ensuring they're secured properly is a whole other issue! When purchasing a pannier examine the quality and functionality of the attachment hooks. Are they made of cheap plastic? Are they adjustable? Also if you're on and off your bike a lot, look into those with a quick-release option! If you're worried about leaving your pannier on your bike when you lock it up, consider using a thin cable lock to secure it to your bike. Removing valuables is always smart move!
3. Safety - Don't overfill them! There are capacity limits for a reason. It can get dangerous when you're swerving in and out of traffic simply because you're trying to get balanced. Whether they come with safety reflectors, or you have to add you own, if you're riding at night, let others know you're on the road!

Panniers are a great addition to one's cycling gear. Head to your local bike shop and ask the staff to give their thoughts on what makes a great pannier.

Have any other cycling tips or tricks to share with us? Why not send us a tweet or post on our Facebook Page.

As we quickly approach mid-summer (where does the time go?), we know it can be hot and humid out there! So as you roll along quiet roads or trails and even enjoy a few hill climbs, always take the time to sip on some water.

Whether you're riding solo this summer or you've got a great group you like to get out with, take it all in! Cycling in an Ontario summer is truly memorable!

From Louisa, Joanne & Michael 

Ontario By Bike Network & Bike Train Team

Projects of Transportation Options

850 Coxwell Ave ~ Toronto, ON ~ M4C 5R1  

Office: 416-827-2774

Toll-Free: 1-866-701-2774

Email: info@ontariobybike.ca

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Stop by this certified bicycle-friendly
business while cycling in Prince Edward County: 

Wellington Pottery

  

Stop in at David and Maggie's Pottery Gallery in Wellington, ON and pick up one-of-a-kind gifts! Cycling with a small group? Why not book a pottery workshop to break up the day? Delivery of purchases available upon request. Want to stay overnight? Ask about the Wellington Pottery Guest Suite accommodation!

  

Plan your route at

www.ontariobybike.ca/thegreatwaterway