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MEC blog | MEC

Since the Fundy Footpath (FFP) opened in 1994, people have underestimated its difficulty and duration, which has resulted in tougher-than-anticipated hikes and expensive search and rescue operations. We wanted to make some videos to highlight the safety precautions needed to hike the FFP. But who would ever watch a safety video about hiking? Enter our main character, Bruce “should-I-say-my-last-name” Persaud and our *Surviving the Fundy Footpath* films. Bruce grew up in Toronto and had just moved to New Brunswick from Montreal when we met him. When he agreed to have his first serious hike filmed, we knew we had our hook.

These films are a must-watch before you head out on a challenging hike. Bruce illustrates that you don’t need to be a hardcore backpacker to complete the FFP, but you do need some good knowledge before you head out, and helpful advice from experienced hikers can make a huge difference when you’re a beginner backpacker.

### Episode 1: Is He Ready?


Episode 1: Is He Ready? (CENSORED)



##### What is the Fundy Footpath?
Where the resistant igneous rock of the Caledonia Highlands drops off into the mega-tidal Bay of Fundy in Southeastern New Brunswick, you’ll find the treacherous Fundy Footpath. It’s over 60km long, crosses nearly 20 watercourses and traverses very steep terrain that culminates in over 4000m of elevation gain (and an equal amount of loss).

##### What is the FFP’s reputation?
It’s rocky, rooted and riddled with steep elevation changes. Backpackers are lured by the promise of a one-of-a-kind coastal experience and an intimate encounter with the great Fundy tides, but it’s also a raw wilderness experience.

### Episode 2: Many of Firsts


Episode 2: Many of Firsts (CENSORED)



##### What are some misconceptions about the footpath?
Many hikers expect the FFP to be flatter, smoother, more forgiving and faster to complete. These misconceptions can lead to people pushing themselves too hard, too fast or to trying to take short-cuts, resulting in injuries or just a bad time.

### Episode 3: Threading the Eye of the Needle


Episode 3: Threading the Eye of the Needle (CENSORED)



##### Where should beginner hikers start before tackling the footpath?
Train by putting some weight on your back and finding some elevation to climb and descend. Anything technical with tricky footing is good practice and using trekking poles will be very helpful, especially on steep downhills. Pole placement can seem complicated at first, as each step is one more task for your brain.

##### What does hiker preparedness mean?
Here are some things you’ll need to be prepared:

1. Mental toughness: be ready for the challenge and recognize when you’re tired and not thinking clearly. Not everything will go according to plan.
1. Physical conditioning is a key preparation activity; learn some good stretches to reduce soreness.
1. Proper gear choices and packing covers a lot of things, from boots, backpacks and clothing to shelters, personal hygiene and kitchen equipment. Take only what you need and make your pack as light as possible. Make a list of essentials.
1. High calorie, lightweight food is key. Have a plan to treat or filter your water and remember to keep drinking; dehydration leads to all kinds of physical problems.
1. Tell people where you’re going and when you’ll be done. Register before beginning the FFP on either end so help knows your hiking agenda. Take a first-aid kit, map of the trail, guide book, tide chart and a cell phone/GPS. Cell coverage is very thin, so don’t depend on it. If you must call 911, be ready to give them detailed information on your exact location and the nature of your situation.

### Episode 4: Hitting the Wall


Episode 4: Hitting the Wall (CENSORED)



##### What do you want people to know about the footpath?
The mega-tides of the Bay of Fundy are impressive along the trail and vary by as much as 11.4m (nearly four storeys). Tide level is vitally important here, as it can close routes, limit your travel, and even trap you on the cliffs when exploring the beach. The wrack line – a line of dead seaweed and driftwood – shows the reach of the tide, making it a safety line of sorts. Camp above it and don’t lose track of the tide while you’re exploring.

### Episode 5: Becoming a Hiker


Episode 5: Becoming a Hiker (CENSORED)



##### What are some instances of things going awry on the footpath?
The example in “Episode 5: Becoming a Hiker” is one of the best. Two men hiking the FFP were worried they wouldn’t get out on time because the trail was taking longer than expected and decided to take an intertidal short cut. With darkness falling, they likely panicked and tried to climb up the cliff back to the trail, only to become stuck. An expensive helicopter rescue saved them. Another time, a hiker nearly froze to death in the winter, while one called for rescue due to sore knees, only to be found later, living it up on the beach.

##### What else do you want people to know?
If you’re an experienced hiker, then help others get out and take on outdoor challenges. Everyone should spend time in the wilderness and it is up to others with experience to help them along, whether through guiding, teaching or just encouraging them. In an urbanizing landscape we must all stay connected to nature and gain experiences that will allow us to understand the importance of conservation.

### Episode 6: Some Serious Chafing Going On


Episode 6: Some Serious Chafing Going On (CENSORED)

### 

*MEC was proud to provide a grant to the Fundy Biosphere Reserve, and ultimately help Ben Phillips, Alonzo Leger and Marc Leger lead Bruce Persaud along the Fundy Footpath safely while Craig Norris captured each moment. Congratulations to Bruce for surviving the FFP! Time to pick up some [real water shoes](/en/gender/men%27s/products/footwear/sandals/water-sandals/c/1801).*

*Photos by Craig Norris.*



Follow Toronto-born first-time camper Bruce Persaud as he attempts to complete the Fundy Footpath, one of Canada’s toughest multi-day hikes.

Surviving the Fundy Footpath | MEC Blog

Surviving the Fundy Footpath

Thank you for being our witnesses.

Of every second wind, kilometre crushed, shin iced, knee braced. Of every fuel up and cool down. Of every event entered. Of every challenge accepted.

To our friends and family who act as our tireless supporters and motivators on the sidelines of any race or event – thank you for being there to wish us luck before the starting pistol and to greet our sweaty, shaky selves at the finish line.

A race is a chance to set new records, to beat personal times and to prove to yourself that you can always be a better athlete. But it’s also a chance to take part in a larger event, to experience a collective environment that celebrates human tenacity and perseverance. Without loyal cheerers equipped with cold water, inspiring words and silly signs, these races wouldn’t be the same.



Thank you to our cheerers for enduring our whines about every ache and pain, for forgiving us for not coming out on weekends because we had to wake up [early to train](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-get-the-tempo-run-101). Thanks for being our champions, for massaging our calves (and, at times, our egos); thanks for every moment that you spent out in the cold, applauding our feats, without complaint.

We get the bibs, and sometimes even medals, but you deserve credit, too – for getting up early and braving the weather with us, for being prepared with snacks in your pockets and enough energy and cheer to motivate our next strides. While we may not be able to stop to thank you at the time, never underestimate how much a familiar face or word of encouragement helps push us through a difficult stretch.

Thank you for telling us to go for it, whether we faced muddied trails or sun-warmed streets, because you always believed that we would cross the finish line. The best supporters are those who tell us to get outside because they can see when we need them to; because they can’t wait to be there, cheering our names at the finish line, showing us how proud they are.



Whether we’re at the front of the crowd or dragging behind, whether it’s our first race or our twentieth, you turning up gives us something to run for.

Thanks for being there to meet us.

Thanks to our cheerers – cheers to you.

*Have a dedicated cheerer in your life? Share this post with them to say thanks for all their support, high-fives and hugs at the finish line.*



Behind every runner, there’s a high-five, hug and funny sign that keeps them going. This one goes out to the friends, family and cheerers on the sidelines.

Cheers to the cheerers

It’s no secret that running crews and training clubs are basically a gold mine of motivation, expertise and new friendships, just waiting to be tapped. But when you find *your*club – the one that hits all your checkboxes for fitness and support – life-altering things can happen. Just ask twin sisters Julie and Andrea Kocsis, members of the Barrie, Ontario-based triathlon club the [Barrie Baydogs](https://www.barrietriathlonclub.com/), who went from just walking to finishing multiple marathons.

“With the Baydogs, whatever you start, you finish together,” notes Julie. “With hill training, everyone waited at the top, you all high-fived each other and then ran down together. Even if you were the slower runner, you never felt like people were waiting for you or that you were left behind. They include everybody. You don’t feel like an outsider or that you’re slowing anyone down.”

That sense of family and belonging is something that was a massive motivation for the pair, who Andrea says were brutally teased throughout school. While they’ve always been each other’s biggest supporters – they start and finish races together, holding their hands triumphantly in the air as they cross the finish line – they really got the welcome and community encouragement they were looking for through the [Baydogs mentoring program](https://www.barrietriathlonclub.com/mentoring).



“When we went to the mentor training, they really welcomed us with open arms,” recalls Julie. “Everyone there was of all different physical abilities and were very sociable.”

“It was important for us to join a club that understands the importance of supporting each other and finishing together,” adds Andrea. “They built up our self confidence and our mental strength. It’s not ‘I can’t do anything’ anymore, it’s ‘I can do it, and if I believe in myself anything is possible.’”

The twins have made massive strides in their fitness levels over the years. They each weighed over 200lb. (91kg) when they started with walking in university. Over time, they decided to pick up the pace by running to a neighbourhood landmark, like a light post, then running a kilometre and so on. Eventually, they set a goal to finish a marathon before graduation. Not only did they hit their goal, but they’ve lost over 120lb. (54kg) between them and now exercise regularly, greatly improving their overall health.

> “When you’re in a group, if you’re suffering, you’re all suffering together, so you don’t feel like it’s that bad.”
>
Andrea’s knee injury was the key factor in joining the Baydogs. A friend in their run club suggested they try triathlons, so they bought bikes and joined up. “The number one thing I’ve gotten out of joining the group is knowledge,” says Julie.

These days, the twins welcome a bit of sweaty stress. They completed the Disney Dopey Challenge in 2015, which sandwiches together four days of back-to-back running, starting with a 5K, then a 10K, half marathon, and full marathon, for a grand total of 78.2km. “We’ve probably done a good 10 half marathons and four full marathons,” estimates Andrea. “We have a half coming up in May, and we started working with a coach that we met through the Baydogs to help us with our running. We’ve PB’d the last three races we’ve been in. The big goal for us is a full Ironman in August.”



The successes haven’t been without their interruptions either – last year Andrea faced a rugby injury and had to take the summer off. “That was really tough for me, as a twin. Every day I’d see my sister out and wish I could train. But it allowed me to grow mentally stronger.”

“It was tough for me too,” echoes Julie. “I never thought I’d be starting or finishing the half Ironman without my sister on the line. I found the run particularly difficult. That’s when Andrea is usually yelling at me ‘it’s all in your mind! Just keep going, one foot in front of the other’! Or we start singing to each other. Last summer our go-to was ‘Fight Song’ by Rachel Platten.” Since Andrea couldn’t join Julie for the Muskoka 70.3, she wrote different song lyrics on the handlebars of Julie’s bike.

If they could impart one lesson, they hope people know that they are capable of more that they give themselves credit for.

> “The only thing that’s stopping you is you, putting up the wall. Just put your heart into it. Speed doesn’t matter,” they say.
>
“There’s that quote about how the slowest person is still faster than the person sitting on the couch, so no matter your physical ability, just get out and try. You see so much more of the world when you’re out running.”

*MEC is proud to support Julie and Andrea’s efforts through the Community Contributions program via a grant to the Barrie Baydogs, which helps fund their mentoring program. Good luck on your Ironman!*



Get seriously inspired by Barrie Baydogs club members and twin sisters Julie and Andrea as they chronicle over 120lb. lost and 20 races crushed.

The life changing magic of joining a club | MEC Blog

The life-changing magic of joining a club

Morgan Taylor and I have two things in common: we both like drinking coffee and riding bikes. Over the years, our careers and riding styles have changed, but the enjoyment that comes with sitting down for a cup of coffee or cruising down the street on two wheels is still very much in place.

Recently, Morgan and his partner Stephanie started an early morning coffee meet-up for commuters. It takes place every Friday – rain or shine – in North Vancouver, and it’s a sweet example of how something as simple as brewing up some beans can grow into a bike-coffee-commuter community meet-up.

I joined in to find out more about #coffeeoutsideyvr and maybe to get some other Canadian cities interested in starting coffee and bike meet-ups in their own town.



##### Stephen: Why did you start #coffeeoutsideyvr?
Morgan: Last summer, we spent three months travelling by bike through the western US. On that trip, we had the chance to visit lots of people who were doing great things to foster inclusive community locally. Attending grassroots community events and spending quality time with humble and passionate organizers got the wheels turning for us: we came back home knowing we’d soon be hosting our own weekly gathering back in Vancouver.

> “#coffeeoutsideyvr is all about fostering inclusivity, enabling new connections, and encouraging each other to do something fun and active – even when it’s cold and dark out.”
>
##### When did it all start?
After our trip, we spent a few months getting our home in order, settling in to our new work, and researching and testing locations around town. We launched #coffeeoutsideyvr on the first Friday of January 2017. We’ve been going strong ever since, with an average of 15–20 people showing up to watch the world become bright over camp coffee and homemade baked goods in all kinds of weather.



##### Where did the idea come from?
One of the people we spent time with on our summer trip was Robert Perks at his small shop, Ocean Air Cycles, in Ventura, California. Rob gets to take credit for starting the #coffeeoutside tag – which now has over 20,000 posts – and flies the flag of coffee-nerding and inclusivity in Ventura on a weekly basis.

##### What’s your favourite way to make coffee outside?
We unfailingly go with French press. We have a [Snow Peak titanium press](/en/product/5039-966/Titanium-French-Press) that we use when it’s just us outdoors, a classic glass Bodum at home, and a huge insulated stainless press that we bring to #coffeeoutsideyvr to make sure there’s lots to go around.



##### Who comes to this?
We couldn’t be happier with the way things are going. There’s a core group of people coming out that we didn’t even know before January, and new people are still coming out every week. Some of them we knew before, but most of them we didn’t! We try our best to make newcomers feel welcome, and ensure that everyone’s adequately fed and caffeinated.

> “The best part is seeing people who didn’t know each other beforehand heading off together in various directions to the rest of their day.”
>
Since people come on all types of bikes and everyone has their own preferred way of making coffee, conversation naturally gravitates towards those topics. But after 12 weeks, we’ve come to know people beyond just small talk: connections made at this gathering have resulted in new friends and collaboration outside of the event, which is exactly what we were hoping for – and we’ve even gone on an overnight trip with some of the folks we met not long ago over hot drinks on cold and dark Friday mornings.



##### What kind of riders show up?
All kinds! And honestly, you don’t even need to come on a bike, or drink coffee. One of the insights we had when were looking to build community through a weekly event was to do something accessible and inclusive. From the dad who brings his daughter in a trailer (for #milkoutsideyvr, obviously) to the long-distance commuters extending their already-impressive morning rides to the folks who are extending #coffeeoutsideyvr into longer Friday morning adventures, we are so happy to have a wide range of people joining us.

##### Any advice for anyone who wants to start #coffeeoutside in their own town?
There are two main things to consider: time and place. Both are dependent on your local needs and your own schedule, but consistency is key. We guarantee that we’ll be at the same spot at the same time every week, so it’s easy for people to remember.

> “A location that’s covered is ideal for all-weather use, and a nice setting with convenient access is good too.”
>
As for time, we landed on a weekday before work, but some people like to do weekend mornings. We did a group ride to check out spots before we decided on these details, and would recommend you do the same. And of course, reach out to those already running their own events and ask questions! The #coffeeoutside community stretches around the world and people are happy to share their knowledge.



**Stephen**: For my ride to #coffeeoutsideyvr, I borrowed MEC bike designer (and product manager) Tim McDermott’s personal [Provincial Road 233](/en/product/5050-660/Provincial-Road-233-Bicycle). This bike is perfect for roads, gravel rides and biking to anywhere fresh coffee is being poured.

[*#coffeeoutsideyvr*](https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/coffeeoutsideyvr/)* meets at 7am on Friday mornings in*[*Waterfront Park*](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Waterfront+Park/@49.3125809,-123.0860124,16.37z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0xa532a72db383385e!8m2!3d49.3118129!4d-123.08588)*, North Vancouver.* *For the full spectrum of outdoor caffeinating possibilities, check out*[*a coffee addict’s guide to camp coffee*](/en/article/a-coffee-addicts-guide-to-camp-coffee)*.*



Coffee grinds &gt; gear grinds any day of the week. Find out what these commuters are brewing up with #coffeeoutsideyvr and get tips on how to start it in your town.

How to make mornings better with bikes + coffee outdoors | MEC Blog

How to make mornings better with bikes + coffee outdoors

Whether you’re the [type of runner](/en/article/which-runner-are-you) who likes to track every kilometre and calorie burned or the type who syncs your vacation days to your race calendar, you can benefit from joining a run crew. Not only will you have the opportunity to combine fun and fitness, you’ll get massive amounts of insider knowledge about upcoming races, [tempo runs](/en/article/be-a-better-runner-get-the-tempo-run-101) and the latest run watch. Plus, you’ll actually truly connect with other live people who like to run.

There are run crews, clubs and groups all over Canada (way too many to include in one post), and the list below includes a few of our favourites that you can join from east coast to west coast:

### 1. Run Nova Scotia: Halifax, NS
For 34 years, [Run Nova Scotia](http://www.runnovascotia.ca/) has weathered running boom after running boom, and has promoted health and fitness through road running. Community is a big factor with this east coast club – members can expect a shared passion and knowledge via seminars, clinics and events and a group that will fit their run status, regardless of age or ability (runners range in age from 10 to 80).

*Club perks:*Race registration discounts and draw prizes

*Coming up:*Eastern Lobster Run (May 7), complete with seafood chowder at the finish line, and the Penguin Run (June 3)

### 2. Chèvres de Montagne, QC
[Les Chèvres de Montagne](http://www.leschevresdemontagne.com/) is an organization that allows women to get together in nature and be active. Just two years old, they offer seasonal events and clubs that provide a safe, welcoming and fun atmosphere while providing professional and technical advice. Their namesake trail running club launches in June 2017 and is for all types and levels of runners. The emphasis is a fun weekly gathering over a performance-based atmosphere.

*Club motto:*Be active to surpass oneself, while having fun

*Favourite route:*Over 8 places are visited per season, each with their own charms

*Post-run ritual:*A beer, to keep fun at the centre of the club

### 3. Cours ta réussite, QC


Founded 6 years ago by three med students who met at Laval University, [Cours ta Réussite](http://www.courstareussite.com/) is based on the [Students Run LA project](https://srla.org/), and operates with the intention of helping a group of people who are very often forgotten when it comes to school perseverance: adult students and new immigrants. All are welcome to join, regardless of experience. “As long as the person comes with a smile!” echoes club president Maxime Bérubé. “We get to see refugees from all over the world and Quebecers all having a good time together. It’s truly heartwarming.”

*Club motto:*Scholar perseverance, one kilometre at a time

*Favourite route:*Old Quebec streets, the Plains of Abraham and Saint-Charles River Linear Park

*Post-run ritual:*Some resistance training and a hangout

*Favourite MEC run gear:*A good pair of running shoes

### 4. Barrie Baydogs: Barrie, ON
Founded in 2010, the [Barrie Baydogs Triathlon Club](https://www.barrietriathlonclub.com/) is an age 16+ community group of everyday athletes who train and socialize together. Now with over 130 members, the club meets weekly for instructor-led workouts, including stairs, hills, speed work, time trials and endurance training. The club’s mission is to develop a community of multi-sport athletes from recreational to elite and become Canada’s premier triathlon club.

*Club motto:*“Push on. Finish strong.”

*Favourite route:*Kempenfelt Bay for beautiful freshwater swimming

*Post-run ritual:*Monthly social gatherings with friends and family

### 5. Run Dufferin: Orangeville, ON
What started 7 years ago as a team of 12 marathon runners to act as escorts to the Olympic torch bearer has morphed into an all-levels non-profit dedicated to supporting and promoting health, fitness and community. [Run Dufferin](http://rundufferin.com/) founding members Margery Cruise and Bob Collin take runners around Island Lake and the Dufferin Hi-Land section of the Bruce Trail.

*Upcoming events:*Chase the Tornado (May 21), which follows the path a tornado once took through the Grand Valley, and the Island Lake Classic on Labour Day Monday (September 4)

*Post-run ritual:*Beer or wine and a swim

*Favourite MEC run gear:*Run apparel from [MPG](/en/brand/mpg/ideal-for/running%2C-fitness-and-training/products/clothing/c/981)

### 6. Girls Run Sudbury: Sudbury, ON


Three years ago, Chantal Dogastino founded [Girls Run Sudbury](http://www.seriecanadiennedecoursepourfemmes.ca/en/), known for its supportive environment to empower women and girls of all ages to get active in an non-competitive environment. The Fitspirit program (for girls in grade 7–12), where runners can train for 8–10 weeks, is a favourite among attendees. Last year 1000 women turned out on a rainy day to celebrate their accomplishments. “Running doesn’t have to be hard,” says Chantal. “It is simply putting one foot in front of the other and repeating until you cross the finish line.”

*Club motto:*“Run with us!”

*Post-run ritual:*A gentle yoga session to aid in recovery

*Favourite route:*The runs often loop through a 1km stretch of peaceful off-road trail

*Favourite MEC gear:*[MEC Mercury Thermal Tights](/en/product/5036-906/Mercury-Thermal-Tights) for cold winter weather and the [MEC Sanctuary Tights](/en/product/5036-904/Sanctuary-Tights) for early spring and fall.

### 7. Runners With Attitude: Sherwood Park, AB
Want to join a pack of pace chasers who will show up, no matter the weather? Meet [Runners With Attitude](http://runnerswithattitude.weebly.com/), a true group of 365ers. Club leaders Lynne and Rob have developed an established trail running program that sets up members for success during challenging races like the Northern Alberta 5 Peaks Trail Running Series. It’s not all intensity and training though, the vibe is decidedly supportive – aka your extended running family.

*Club motto:*“Nobody runs alone”

*Post-run ritual:*The club’s famous potluck takes place after weekend runs

*Favourite route:*Hilly trail runs around Edmonton’s River Valley

### 8. Sole Girls: Canada-wide


Four years ago, Ashley Wiles saw the need to connect girls aged 8–12 with a safe space for positive mental health. Today, her club [Sole Girls](http://www.solegirls.org/) uses physical activity as a tool to build confidence and establish mentorship with older women who want to empower the next generation. “Every girl is unique,” says Ashley. “Seeing that self confidence build, and then seeing them creating a ripple effect to get others involved is so special.”

*Club motto:*“Release your inner awesome!”

*Post-run ritual:*A reflection session during a group stretch-and-cheer session

*Favourite MEC run gear:*[Wrightsocks in hot pink](/en/product/5048-793/Coolmesh-II-Low-Socks)

### 9. Fraser Street Run Club: Vancouver, BC
Fraser Street Run Club’s four co-founders (Jesse, Michelle, Kat and Cody) founded their club kind of by accident. They were regularly meeting up for trail and road runs and started calling themselves [Fraser Street Run Club](https://www.facebook.com/groups/380233985492086/) and documenting the highlights on Instagram. “People started asking how to join,” says Cody. “So we organized a group run, over 20 people showed up, so we just kept doing it.” Four years later the club is known for its strong community, field trips and races. Total newbie or run nut, all are welcome, and no one is left behind on the Feel Good Friday runs.

*Club motto:*“I had no choice”

*Favourite route:*Cruising through quarry garden at Queen Elizabeth Park

*Post-run ritual:*Beer and potato chips at the clubhouse, or tacos nearby, plus weekend brunch after long trail runs

### 10. MEC run crews: Canada-wide


Don’t see your city on the list of run crews above? The MEC run crew is a nation-wide pack of everyday athletes with local chapters from Victoria to Halifax. Our mission is to enable runners of all ages and abilities to get outside and get running, and inspire them to chase a PR, try a new trail route, or tackle a race, be it 5K or 50K.

*Favourite route:*Check out your local chapter to find out where they’re heading

*Post-run ritual:*We’re big on bagels

*Favourite MEC run gear:*We love [Salomon’s grippy trail shoes](/en/brand/salomon/products/footwear/shoes/running-shoes/c/1489), New Balance for [light road runners](/en/brand/new-balance/products/footwear/shoes/running-shoes/c/1489), and [Ciele hats](/en/product/5046-715/GoCap-Standard) for a fun punch of colour



These established and up-and-coming run crews are your ticket to meeting new people, insider training tips, and having a great time while staying fit.

Coast to coast: 10 Canadian run crews you should join | MEC Blog

Coast to coast: 10 Canadian run crews you should join

Little known fact: MEC helps build mountain bike trails. A lot of them. Sometimes, it’s our [staff that do the digging](/en/article/getting-our-hands-dirty-mec-vs-arcteryx-trail-building) themselves, but way more often it’s the talented trail associations across Canada doing the heavy lifting – both in terms of dirt and plans. MEC helps make their trail goals happen with support via community grants and partnerships.

Every time you buy something from MEC – whether it’s a [turtle light](/en/product/5006-705/Turtle-White-LED-Front-Light) or an [Intense bike](/en/brand/intense/products/gear/cycling-gear/bikes/mountain-bikes/c/1527?q=%3Asales-rank&text=) – 1% of your purchase goes directly toward our community programs, which includes things like supporting trail networks and mountain bike groups.

Wonder where some of your 1% has gone? Here are a few highlights (from a much bigger list) of mountain bike organizations across Canada – from west to east – that you and other MEC members have helped support through your purchases. There are also lots of local tips on what to check out when you’re riding in these areas.

### BC: Squamish Off-Road Cycling Association


Over 20 years, [SORCA](http://www.sorca.ca/) has evolved from a couple of buddies building trails on Sundays to a collective organizing everything from races and social rides to mass trail maintenance days. In the past few years, MEC’s helped restore the flow with $13,500 to the iconic corners rebuild project, and also gave $9900 to the Alice Lake/Garibaldi Diamond Head trail access project. We caught up with Trail Funding Director Todd for some things to know about the area:

**Most popular trail in the area:**[Half Nelson](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/all/top/), according to Trailforks. It’s listed as one of the top mountain bike trails in the world.

**What’s unique**: The combination of grippy rock slabs, technical singletrack, machine-built flow trails and an ever-expanding number of dedicated climbing trails.

**Total kilometres to ride**: About 173km, but I expect it’s actually higher.

**Big plans for the area**: In 2017, SORCA will open a new climb trail that’ll extend the Legacy climb by approximately 6km, for a total trail length of 12km. This will mean a singletrack climb from Quest University all the way to the Garibaldi Park boundary.

### BC: North Shore Mountain Bike Association


Celebrating their 20th anniversary this year, the [NSMBA](http://nsmba.ca/) works to protect and maintain trails on the iconic North Shore. Their mission? “Trails for all. Trails forever.” MEC’s been a partner for years and has given grants for projects like restoring Bridle Path ($15,000), trail signage ($4500), and even a capacity building grant for an NSMBA staff position ($30,350). We’re also the proud trail adopter of Expresso. We connected with trail-building legend Todd “Digger” Fiander and NSMBA President Jenny for some highlights to check out when you’re riding in this area:

**Most popular trails on the Shore**: [Bobsled](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/bobsled/) and [Expresso](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/expresso) (some of the most popular trails in BC, according to Trailforks).

**Personal favourite**: [Ladies Only](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/ladies-only), because it has the first-ever teeter-totter on a mountain bike trail. The 13 little waterfalls between the teeter-totters are quite pretty as well.

**What’s unique:**The creative use of cedar and woodwork. Our trails give you the feeling that you’re surfing the lay of the land.

**Big plans for the area**: Redirting all of Expresso. Lower Expresso opening in 2017, which will extend this route to 1865m of continuous singletrack and introduce new A-frames and tabletops. This trail was created with more than 450 volunteer labour hours – a terrific example of what we can accomplish by bringing our community together.

### BC: Western Canada Youth Bike Coalition Society


In 2016, we gave $15,000 to the [Western Canada Youth Bike Coalition Society](http://aymbp.ca/home.html) to help build partnerships and capacity in First Nation communities to plan, create and maintain trails – all with a strong focus on youth and mountain biking. That helped fund different trail areas, including the [Xats’ull Nation trails](https://www.trailforks.com/region/xats-ull-soda-creek-1467672009/?lat=52.333875&lon=-122.252941&z=13&m=trailforks) north of Williams Lake, the system in Chu Chua built by Simpcw Nation, and trails in [Williams Lake](https://www.trailforks.com/region/williams-lake/). When you’re exploring there, here are some highlights to look for from local riders:

**Most popular in these areas**:

- [DH Hipsta](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/dh-hipsta/) (Xats’ull Nation trails): fun, fast and has quite possibly the biggest wooden feature in BC. “The Separator” is a crazy-big wallride/gap jump that splits the trail into two lines.
- Axehead Trail ([Chu Chua](https://www.trailforks.com/region/chu-chua-17656/)): a fast, flowy track that follows the footsteps of our ancestors as they moved throughout our traditional territories hunting, gathering and trading with other Nations.
- [Chief William XC](https://www.trailforks.com/region/chief-will-yum/?lat=52.131714&lon=-122.055016&z=14&m=trailforks) (Williams Lake): wonderful intermediate-level technical cross-country trail that runs along a ridge with amazing lookouts over the valley.

**Big plans for the areas:**

- Williams Lake: Plans to build a short connector from the campsite to the South Lake Side trail network. This will open up an amazing XC route, connecting all four major Williams Lake networks.
- Xats’ull Nation trails: Lots of plans… a long XC is up next.

### AB: Calgary Mountain Bike Alliance


The [CMBA](http://www.cmbalink.com/) works across five areas: Station Flats in Kananaskis, Bowmont Park, Fish Creek Provincial Park, Paskapoo Slopes and 12 Mile Coulee. MEC recently hooked up the CMBA with a $5500 grant to help build the Fish Creek MTB Skills Park. David from the CMBA gives us the lowdown on what to look forward to when you’re riding here:

**Most popular in the area**: [Ridgeback](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/ridgeback-3/) (especially since we added the boardwalks). The [Fish Creek MTB Skills Park](http://cmbalink.com/bikepark/) has dramatically exceeded our expectations in terms of popularity. It’s amazing how many people are using it.

**Personal favourite**: [Moosepackers](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/moose-packers/) to R4/R3 is so much fun. It’s fast, with everything from roots to rock gardens to berms.

**What’s unique**: Most of our trails are fairly narrow – 1m max between trees – and usually don’t have technical trail features. This will change, since rider skills and the capabilities of bikes have improved dramatically. People are riding faster and looking for more advanced features.

### ON: Simcoe County Mountain Bike Club trails


About an hour and a half north of Toronto, the [Simcoe County Mountain Bike Club](https://scmbc.ca/) is one of the largest trail organizations in Ontario. In 2016, SCMBC were winners of the $10,000 MEC Dirt Search grant to improve and expand their singletrack network, flow trail and signage. SCMBC board member Ian gives us the latest on the region:

**Three words to describe the trails:** Clean, fast, flowing.

**Big plans:**We’re negotiating with private landowners to gain access to private property connectors; we’re on a path to create a mountain bike mecca in Ontario.

**Favourite trail:**Creeks Trail. This 10km trail was built by a dedicated group of volunteers (with financial assistance from the MEC Dirt Search). It’s a long ride without many intersections, and has 9 bridges from 15 to 75ft long. It was designed for winter grooming so the elevation changes are gradual, which makes it fun for all abilities and all seasons.

**Post-ride recommendations**: Kenzington’s Burger Bar (Barrie, Orillia, Bradford) for one of the best burgers you’ll ever eat.

### ON: Ottawa Mountain Bike Association


Founded in 2005, the [OMBA](http://ottawamba.org/cms/) works with landowners and stakeholders to support mountain bike access in the South March Highlands Conservation Area, and are now the voice of mountain bikers in the Ottawa area. In 2016, they received a $500 Staff Choice Community Grant through MEC Ottawa to support their group. Here’s the nitty-gritty on the area from Sandra at the OMBA:

**Most popular**: [PWT](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/pwt-west/) (Pete’s Wicked Trail), a great intermediate trail with interesting rocky features. Advanced riders can ride it all, and it has fun flow sections for intermediates.

**Personal favourite:**In summer, it’s [Outback](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/outback-4426/), a technical trail that’s a full-body workout. For winter fat biking, it’s [Trail 66](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/trail-66-67622/) in Gatineau Park, which is a blast to ride when it’s hard-packed snow.

**What’s unique?** The South March Highlands trails are more technically demanding (with many large rock features) than the average trail network. If you learn to ride here, you can use those skills at other riding areas around the world. It’s a tough place to learn, but also very rewarding.

**Big plans:** [Shadow’s Ridge](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/shadow-s-ridge/), a fun new trail finished in 2016 that’s aimed at beginner and intermediate riders. The signs go in for the 2017 season so it’ll be easier to follow. A dedicated team of volunteers creatively built it using the natural features of the area.

### QC: Velo MSM trails
[Velo MSM](http://www.velomsm.com/en/) provide stellar intermediate and advanced trails for the Ottawa-Gatineau region. In 2013, MEC set them up with a mega $15,000 grant for Mont Ste-Marie trail development. Here’s what you can look forward to when you’re there, courtesy of Ted at Velo MSM:

**Most popular in the area**: [Growler](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/growler/): flow trail, super fast and fun. [TTOP](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/taylor-s-tower-of-power-3394/): climbing trail seen as the best uphill in the region. [Lager](http://www.trailforks.com/trails/lager/): our toughest technical all-mountain downhill trail.

**Personal favourite**: Lager – it’s a white-knuckler no matter how many times you ride it. Plus the faster you go through the technical sections, the more flow they have.

**Big plans for the area**: Watch for another beginner trail in the lake area, a new technical downhill trail, and a lollipop loop into a new ridgeline in an undiscovered area for trails.

### QC: Vallée Bras-du-Nord


The [VBN](http://www.valleebrasdunord.com/mountain-biking-english.php) is a long-standing pillar of the Quebec City trail community. Primarily known as a XC destination, a number of high-quality gravity trails have recently emerged. Over the years, MEC has supported them through different partnerships and grants that total about $46,000. We caught up with VBN communications director Magalie for info on the area.

**What’s unique?** The VBN experience is all about rustic nature, varied places to stay, rigorous trail maintenance and a warm welcome.

**Personal favourite:** For beginners, it’s [Beurre d’Érable](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/beurre-d-erable-6976/) trail, a sweet singletrack for first-timers. For more advanced riders, the [Boréale](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/la-boreale/) trail wins the gold. This fantastic enduro style trail has descents with berms and jumps, the perfect combo for adrenaline junkies.

**Most popular in the area**: [Neilson](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/neilson-est/) is the signature trail. It’s a cross-country type trail that offers technical climbs, descents with berms, wood bridges and natural obstacles. It winds through the valley along the river and has spectacular views of the mountain – a must when you’re riding here.

### QC: Plein-Air Ste-Adèle


[Plein-Air Ste-Adèle](http://pleinairsteadele.com/) serves riders from Montreal and the surrounding area with trails for all tastes, from cross-country to freeride and even fat bike trails in winter. Along with a staff choice grant, they also received a grant from MEC for their freeride trail and bike park. Here’s the scoop, at a glance, from Matheiu at PASA:

**Most popular in the area:** [L’érablière](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/erabliere/) is at the top of the list. And for the best riders, [La BouBou](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/la-boubou/) and [40 trail](https://www.trailforks.com/region/pentes-40-80/) in the freeride park are very popular.

**Three words to describe this area:**Diverse, close (Montreal’s less than an hour’s drive away), accessible (no trail fees).

**Personal favourite:** [Yogi](https://www.trailforks.com/trails/yogi/) trail. It’s long, winding and is just as nice going up as down because of it’s grade. There are also wooden bridges and boulders that add to the fun.

### NB: Club Plein Air de Caraquet


Established in 1989, [Club Plein Air de Caraquet](http://www.clubpleinaircaraquet.com/) wants to get people outside, and mountain biking is a part of that goal. MEC contributed a grant when they built their first kilometres of trails, along with funds to help them hire a recreation expert for the organization. Here are some things to know about the area, from a number of riders in the region:

**Three words to describe the region**: Forest, sea and Acadian culture.

**Most popular trail:** La Clairière. Riders love its sunny panoramas, its wildflowers, its five berms as well as its bumps and jumps.

**Big plans for the area:** Our goal for 2017 is to build an additional 4km of mountain bike trails. We also want to offer a second round of the Sprockids program and third edition of Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day.

### NS: Na Beinn Trails Cycling Association


The [Na Beinn Trails Cycling Association](https://www.facebook.com/nabeinntrails) helps make mountain biking happen in and around Mabou and Port Hood, and wants to create an accessible trail network for riders of all levels. In 2015, MEC gave trail crews $5800 to boost trails and infrastructure. Here’s the scoop from Yann at the association:

**Most popular**: The [Celtic Shores Coastal Trail](http://www.celticshores.ca/), the product of an absolutely amazing rails-to-trails project that’s part of the Trans-Canada Trail. The ride is accessible to all, with great surfaces, gentle grades and amazing sights likes ocean views, beautiful valleys and historic bridges.

**Personal favourite**: An abandoned road that’s still used by ATVs, but with some provisions for singletrack for hiking or mountain biking (your GPS may say you can drive on this road, but you better not fall for it!). It connects the amazing Mabou Coal Mines area to the more remote areas of Cape Mabou.

**What’s unique?**: There’s a bit of everything for everyone. From calm gravel backroads to the accessible Celtic Shores Coastal Trail to the rugged hiking trails of the Cape Mabou Trail Club.

*From coast to coast, these are just a few of many highlights from busy mountain bike clubs and organizations – there too many to fit in a single blog post!*



## Related articles
- [Must-do mountain bike destinations](/en/article/must-do-mountain-bike-destinations)
- [How to choose a mountain bike](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-mountain-bike)



From BC's North Shore to Nova Scotia, these MTB groups have been busy. Find out some highlights from years of support – made possible by the community program and MEC members across Canada – along with local tips.

Mountain bike trails you helped build | MEC Blog

Mountain bike trails you helped build

What a year. From wild paragliding expeditions across mountains to new stores across Canada, so much happened in 2016 that we had to combine our favourite moments in one place.

### 1. 5 new stores for you
In the span of one year, we opened (or relocated) 5 new stores to better connect and serve you across Canada. Some people even camped out by the front doors the night before we officially opened – amazing.

Check out the new MEC community hubs in [Kelowna](/en/stores/kelowna), [London](/en/stores/london), [South Edmonton](/en/stores/south-edmonton), [Laval](/en/stores/laval) and [North York](/en/stores/north-york).



### 2. You helped us give back
Thanks to you, in 2016 we invested over $3 million dollars as part of our [1% for the Planet](http://www.onepercentfortheplanet.org/) partnership to conserve the environment and help people play in the outdoors.

A couple of highlights? Expedition grants are unique to MEC and are focused on funding people who inspire all of us with the ultimate outdoor adventures. One expedition grant helped Benjamin Jordan launch his [paragliding trip from Vancouver to Calgary](/en/article/39-days-in-the-air-paragliding-from-bc-to-alberta), while another supported Madeleine Martin-Preney and crew to complete the first [continuous ski traverse of the Canadian Selkirks](/en/article/shredding-the-selkirks-a-record-setting-ski-traverse).



### 3. Think Outside Summits connected youth to the outdoors
Outdoor Nation is a growing network of collaborators, change makers and adventurers. Each year, we host summits to bring these groups together to pitch ideas on how to get more youth active and outside (along with a healthy dose of camping, music and inspiring speakers). See what [6 amazing outdoor projects](/en/article/coming-soon-6-amazing-outdoor-projects) will be debuting in 2017 as a result.



### 4. Voted top brand in Canada
In 2016, we were honoured to receive two distinctions:

- [#1 brand in Canada](http://www.canadianbusiness.com/lists-and-rankings/best-brands/canadas-best-brands-2016-the-top-25/image/26/), for a second year in a row
- [Most trusted brand](http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/industry-news/marketing/presidents-choice-mec-tie-for-most-trusted-brands-in-canada/article31993301/) (tie with President’s Choice)



### 5. #goodtimesoutside
We launched a brand new hashtag to celebrate [#goodtimesoutside](/en/article/goodtimesoutside-best-of-december). It’s been pretty amazing to see how and where you’re getting outside – keep the radical adventures coming!



### 6. Fully carbon neutral
As of January 1, 2016, the day-to-day operations of MEC buildings are now carbon neutral. Read more about it [how it works](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/mec-goes-all-in-on-renewable-energy-for-all-of-its-facilities/).



### 7. Ambassadors inspired us
Professional runner and cancer survivor Jim Willett blew us away when he ran his #marathon2marathon this past June. He ran over 1100km to participate in two marathons only a few weeks apart! Follow [Jim on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/optimismninja/).



Professional climber Sarah Hart joined us at Banff Mountain Film Fest and led a ladies-only climbing clinic. As part of the experience, we treated 14 amazing women to a day of climbing, brunch and VIP seating at Banff Film Festival’s Hot Topic Game Changers: Women’s Adventure Storytelling.



### 8. Partners overcame obstacles
It’s important to us to make the outdoors accessible for everyone, which is why we loved seeing photos of our grant to help make these adaptive stand-up paddleboards from our friends at the [British Columbia Mobility Opportunities Society](https://www.facebook.com/BritishColumbiaMobilityOpportunitiesSociety/).



### 9. Members made us proud
We’re so lucky to have so many long-time MECers (dating back 40 years) who reach out to us with photos and memories that make us smile. One example? Here’s a photo of someone 10 years apart, but still wearing the same MEC backpack. **Tear** – they grow up so fast.



Another mini outdoor fan warmed our hearts after we heard he celebrated his third birthday doing a beach clean-up with a dozen of his friends.



This is just a handful of the memorable things that happened in 2016. Huge thanks to everyone who make MEC something to celebrate.



So much happened! Check out our favourite moments in one place, from wild expeditions and new stores to big awards and inspiring members.

MEC’s most memorable moments of 2016 | MEC Blog

MEC’s most memorable moments of 2016

Q: Where do great outdoor ideas come from?
A: The next generation of outdoor lovers.

This year, [MEC Outdoor Nation](http://outdoornation.mec.ca/) – a program to inspire, engage and connect young Canadians to get active outdoors – hosted 143 people at two unforgettable weekends in Toronto and Montreal. Dubbed the Think Outside Summits, these weekends were about developing new ideas about how to get the next generation outside.

Between paddleboard and yoga sessions, slackline breaks and bike rides, MEC Ambassadors [Kalob Grady](/en/explore/mec-ambassadors/kalob-grady) and [Hugues Fournel](/en/explore/mec-ambassadors/hugues-fournel) talked social media and emceed, and event partners Burton, United by Blue, Tentree and Prana provided awesome giveaways. After a campfire hang and live tunes, everyone camped out under the stars.



The most important part? Everyone shared their ideas, took part in workshops and pitched their final projects to a panel of experts for the chance to win up to $5000 in funding from MEC, plus a $750 product prize from Burton for the project that best incorporated sustainability.

The vibe of the weekends was off-the-charts passionate, collaborative and inspiring, as those who came can attest:



Think Outside Summit Toronto Presented by MEC Outdoor Nation



So, which groups got their big ideas funded? And who should you keep an eye out for in 2017? Read on to find out:

### Mood Walks for Youth in Transition
Ontario-wide program [Mood Walks](http://www.moodwalks.ca/) promotes hiking as a way for youth to improve both physical and [mental health](/en/article/why-being-active-outdoors-matters-more-than-ever) by combining physical activity, time in nature and socialization. As a program of the Canadian Mental Health Association, Ontario Division, Mood Walks also provides training and support to community mental health organizations as they launch educational hiking programs for young people who are at risk of, or experiencing mental illness. Join them for the [2017 Mood Walks Summit](http://www.moodwalks.ca/news-and-events/summit2017/) in Toronto, February 25 and 26.

*Facebook:*[*MoodWalksON*](https://www.facebook.com/moodwalksON/)*  |  Instagram:*[*@MoodWalks*](https://www.instagram.com/moodwalks/)*  |  Twitter:*[*@MoodWalksON*](https://twitter.com/MoodWalksON)**

### Les Chèvres De Montagne
[Les Chèvres de Montagne](http://www.leschevresdemontagne.com/) is a group of women who organize outdoor trips and activities to get more young women outside and active. They inspire women from all walks of life to try new outdoor activities, such as mountain biking, climbing, canoeing and backcountry skiing. Thanks to more funding, they’ll be growing the organization from a regional level (they’re currently in Quebec City) to a provincial and national level, while also reducing registration costs for their activities so more participants can take part.

*Facebook:*[*Chevresdemontagne*](https://www.facebook.com/chevresdemontagne/?fref=ts)

### Outdoor Studio
[Outdoor Studio](http://www.outdoorstudio.ca/) is all about getting young urban artists and creatives outside and into the bounty of nature surrounding the Greater Toronto Area. A number of creatives either don’t get outdoors currently, work in isolated studios, or are lacking the social support and practical skills to take part. To remedy this, Outdoor Studio will be putting on four immersive, multi-day trips in 2017, led by a certified guide and creative mentors to equip and empower them, as well as enable them to take future trips. (And if you’re not in the GTA, check out some tips on how to [make your own art in the wild](/en/article/how-to-do-anything-make-art-in-the-wild).)

*Facebook:*[*OutdoorStudioCA*](https://www.facebook.com/outdoorstudioca/)*  |  Instagram:*[*@OutdoorStudioCA*](https://www.instagram.com/outdoorstudioca/)

### AcroYoga Camp
There is such a thing as camp for adults. Utilising the Toronto-area’s outdoor spaces as a playground to introduce and expand the reach of acroyoga, this camp will be part inspiration and part outlet to be creative with movement, and have the great outdoors as foundation, catalyst and backdrop. Watch for the first installment of AcroYoga Camp in August 2017, and in the meantime, drop in to Pursuit OCR [Friday nights at 8pm](http://pursuitocr.com/events/acrojam/) to meet founder Anya Taraboulsy.

*Instagram:*[*@anya­_exposd*](https://www.instagram.com/anya_exposd/)

### Projet Renard
Projet Renard works to overcome the barriers to getting young families with children outdoors and raise awareness of the importance of going outside, whether it’s in the city or the wilderness. The two young women behind this Montreal-based project will be launching their project next spring.

### Strong Like 2 People
This Kingston-based project, inspired by a First Nations mantra, brings together young adults from First Nations communities and young adults from other communities for intercultural exchanges in nature. Through a common appreciation of the outdoors, [Strong Like 2 People](https://www.stronglike2people.com/) aims to define the modern Canadian identity. Watch for an expedition coming in summer 2017 and a film debuting fall 2017.

*Twitter:*[*@StrongL2P*](https://twitter.com/strongl2p)



*Check out all the*[*photos from the weekends*](https://www.facebook.com/pg/mecnation/photos/?tab=albums)* and keep an eye on*[*MEC Outdoor Nation*](http://outdoornation.mec.ca/#whats-happening)* for upcoming events with these great collaborators.*



Think you know all the best ways of getting outside? These new organizations are turning the tables on typical outdoor excursions.

6 amazing outdoor projects debuting in 2017 | MEC Blog

6 amazing outdoor projects debuting in 2017

New deals dropping – see what’s fresh

Free store pickup and returns. Find out more

Phone: (514) 788-5878

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|




Bike shop

Your local MEC store is more than just a place to get gear – it’s a hub for your outdoor community. MEC All Out (our community program) has all kinds of ways to help you get outside:



### Local events
Find [MEC events](https://events.mec.ca/&organization=mec) near you to see what’s happening in store, make connections with interesting people and get active outdoors. Year-round, MEC offers low cost (or even free) clinics and workshops from friendly staff instructors, plus events happening in the larger community – everything from backcountry navigation classes to film screenings.



### Grants and donations
Our community program has given tens of millions of dollars to help people in Canada get active outdoors. Have an awesome outdoor idea? Check out our [community grants](/en/explore/spring-and-fall-grants) and [grassroots product donations](/en/explore/grassroots-product-donations) for criteria and applications.



### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email mon_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.

### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly. *



Community

If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Montreal for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC Montreal opened in 2003, and was our first store in Quebec. It was also the first retail building in Quebec to meet the national C2000 Green Building Standard, and the amount of energy it consumes is nearly 70% less than was required by the Model National Energy Code at the time of construction. Here are some of the green features:

- The wood deck inside the curved roof was salvaged from the Seagram’s distillery in Ville Lasalle. Salvaged wood is also used in the entrance canopy and railings.
- To reduce material waste, the concrete slabs contain 27% blast furnace slag (a by-product of steel manufacturing).
- 50% of the materials used in the building are made of recycled content, by weight.
- Walls are insulated with cellulose fibre from recycled newsprint to cut down on energy consumption (they provide about twice as much thermal insulation as conventional retail buildings from the same era).
- Captured precipitation (stormwater run-off) from the roof is stored in a 45,000L underground cistern, and is used for landscaping and toilet water – this cuts our potable water use in half.
- To keep energy usage down, the concrete floor acts as a thermal reservoir that’s warmed or cooled by fluid pumped through embedded piping. Twelve geothermal wells pump extracted heat in winter and disperse heat in summer.
- There’s mostly natural ventilation with fresh air coming in through underground tunnels. In summer, warm air rises and escapes through roof vents and motorized window openings.
- CO2 sensors keep a good balance of fresh air coming in, so energy isn’t wasted in heating or cooling.
- Lots of daylight reduces the need for artificial lighting. The lights we do have shut off automatically when there’s enough natural light to save energy (for both the lights and the energy needed to cool heat from the bulbs).

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



Green building features

For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).
- Bike tires (no tubes) – they can get ground up for tarmac or playground surfaces.

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



Repairs and recycling

Professional ski and snowboard shop services to set you up for the season. Some services may not be available year-round. Call us to set up a visit.

Buy two of the big three – board/skis, bindings, boots – from MEC and we’ll mount your bindings for free. This offer applies to all types of snowboard and ski equipment sold at MEC. If you’re shopping online, take advantage of this deal by calling your store to arrange an appointment to mount your bindings before you visit. Our ski techs get busy, and we don’t want to let you down.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (machine)| $15|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|
| Boot punching (First punch)| $50|
| Boot punching (Additional punch)| $25|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Ski services

Easter Monday

Store Pickup

We are following the advice and guidance of local health authorities to ensure we are providing the safest possible environment to MEC members and staff.

We aim to provide a safe environment that respects everyone’s comfort level and risk tolerance. Thanks for looking out for each other.

Order online and [pick up](/en/explore/in-store-pickup) at this location.

You can [return](/en/explore/covid-19-shipping-and-returns-updates) products to any store.



**MEC is closely monitoring provincial government guidelines to ensure the safety of all members and staff.**

#### Safety measures
- Number of people inside stores is limited and controlled at all entrances.  
- Social distancing guidelines are posted outside and inside stores.
- Lineup areas have two-meter markers on the floor.
- Staff are required to wear personal protective equipment, including masks.
- Hand sanitizer stations are set up for members and staff to use.  
- Staff practice and promote everyday preventive behaviours including frequent hand washing and social distancing.  
- Common areas including doors, staircases, cash desks, and bike fitting areas are regularly disinfected.  
- Cleaning processes are enhanced for the entire store. 
- Restrictions on the type of clothing and gear members are permitted to try on.  
- Plexiglass shields are installed at cashier stations. 

#### Service updates  
- Climbing walls and play areas are closed.  
- Clinics, events and community room bookings are paused.  
- Rental services are paused.  
- Repair shops are open for bike and ski repairs only.

#### Facilities and supply chain
- We are following all government advisories regarding gathering sizes and retail operations  
- We remain committed to our responsible sourcing practices. MEC continues to uphold standards for the health and safety of people who make and distribute the products we sell.   









Welcome

Phone: Call(905) 333-8559

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|






Your local MEC store is more than just a place to get gear – it’s a hub for your outdoor community. MEC All Out (our community program) has all kinds of ways to help you get outside:

### Local events
Year-round, MEC offers low cost (or even free) clinics and workshops. Find [MEC events](https://events.mec.ca/&organization=mec) near you see what’s happening in store, learn new outdoor skills from friendly staff instructors, and spark ideas for your next outdoor trip.

### Grants and donations
Our community program has given tens of millions of dollars to help people in Canada get active outdoors. Have an awesome outdoor idea? Check out our [community grants](/en/explore/spring-and-fall-grants) and [grassroots product donations](/en/explore/grassroots-product-donations) for criteria and applications.



### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email bur_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.

### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Burlington for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC Burlington opened in 2008, and was designed to meet LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification. Compared to conventional retail buildings from the same period, it was made to be 70% more energy efficient. Here are some of the green features:

- A photovoltaic system generates energy that’s fed into the power grid.
- The structure and envelope are designed to be disassembled and repurposed when the building reaches the end of its useful life.
- There are separate systems for heating, cooling and ventilation to maximize energy efficiency. For heating, there are high-efficiency gas boilers with radiant in-floor heating. For cooling, there’s an ice storage system that uses off-electricity. And for ventilation, there’s a fan-assisted displacement system with heat recovery.
- Many high clerestory windows at roofline reduce the need for artificial lighting. The lights we do have turn down or off automatically when there’s enough natural light to save energy (for both the lights and the energy needed to cool heat from the bulbs).
- The combo of low-flow fixtures and grey water usage cuts potable water requirements by half.
- Captured precipitation (stormwater) provides water for all non-potable uses, like toilets and garden watering. Stormwater gets retained and infiltrated on site and won’t discharge water to municipal storm drains (except under extraordinary circumstances, like an enormous storm).
- Landscaping uses non-invasive species that encourage bird and insect populations.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance)

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).
- Empty CO2 cartridges used for bike tires and avalanche safety.
- Bike tires (no tubes) – they can get ground up for tarmac or playground surfaces.

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement – per rivet| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement – per strap| $15/unit|



Phone: 450.688.2712

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|



### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email lav_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.

### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



It’s small, but it does the trick. Available for use by local outdoor clubs, environmental groups and NGOs that have a similar mandate as MEC. Please email lav_aa@mec.ca at least a month before your event to reserve the space.

- Space: fits up to 35
- Equipment: wall-mounted TV with HDMI, dry erase whiteboard, MEC guest wifi
- Seating and tables: long tables, office chairs, folding chairs



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Laval for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

The space we are taking over provides great potential to bring the MEC brand to life inside and out.

The design will be in-keeping with the new architectural embodiment of the MEC brand, with extensive use of wood on both the inside and outside of the building. Green building features will include a high-performance building envelope and heating, cooling and ventilation (HVAC) system.

All MEC facilities are subject to our internal green building program, which establishes minimum performance standards. MEC Laval will be no different.

Two of the most important aspects of green buildings are the building envelope and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (or HVAC) system. The Laval store will provide R40 and R60 thermal performance in the walls and roof, respectively, and feature a best-in-class roof top HVAC system.

Energy efficient lighting will also be used throughout the store. Plus, Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) will be purchased for all energy consumed by MEC Laval.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



Professional ski and snowboard shop services to set you up for the season. Some services may not be available year-round. Call us to set up a visit.

When you buy 2 or more of the big 3 items (skis, boots or bindings), we’ll mount your bindings for free. This offer applies to all types of ski equipment sold at MEC, and proof of purchase is required. If you’re shopping online, you can take advantage of this deal by placing your order via phone at 1.888.847.0770 or 604.876.6221.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|



Phone: (250) 448-7637

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).



#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|





### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Kelowna for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

Located in the heart of the city, MEC Kelowna is a prime location for Okanagan residents and visitors. The store opened in 2016 after doing extensive renovations to an existing building, which included updates to make the space more energy efficient. Here are some of the green features:

- Moved into an existing building, which saved on construction materials and the embodied energy costs.
- Significant updates to the roof insulation, since that’s a major spot to cut down on heat loss (just like people, buildings can lose a lot of heat through their highest point).
- Rooftop solar system pre-heats the hot water for the building to cut down on energy required.
- Upgraded to a high-efficiency HVAC to reduce energy use, and a heat recovery ventilator reduces the amount of energy required to heat the building.
- Furniture is certified by Level, a third-party sustainability certification program that looks at environmental and social impacts.
- To cut down on materials required, there are minimal floor coverings.
- To reduce energy consumption, we use predominately high-efficiency LED lighting controlled by auto dimmers and occupancy sensors in some areas, and on automated schedules elsewhere.
- Landscaping uses non-invasive species that encourage bird and insect populations, and doesn’t need irrigation except for in drought conditions.
- Low-flow fixtures such as toilets, urinals and shower heads reduce overall water consumption.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Alpine| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Phone: (902) 421-2667

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).



#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|






### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email hal_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Halifax for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC arrived in the Atlantic region in 2001 with our Halifax store. We moved into an existing building and used as many of the on-site structural elements as possible. While this store wasn’t built from the ground up, we still found ways to make small changes that add up to energy savings over time. Here are some of the green features:

- Moved into an existing building, which saved on construction materials and the embodied energy costs.
- To cut down on materials required, there are minimal floor and ceiling coverings.
- We’re replacing some of the conventional lighting with energy saving LED fixtures.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement| $15/unit|



Phone: (613) 729-2700

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).




#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $20 – $25|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|




If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Ottawa for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC Ottawa opened in 2000. Before we started construction, there was a 40-year-old building on the site. We carefully dismantled it and then reused as much material as possible for our store. In the end, about 75% of the existing building (by weight) was incorporated into our store. To add to that accomplishment, this was the first retail building in Canada to comply with Canada’s C2000 Green Building Standard. Here are some of the green features:

- 80% of all the material travelled less than 500km to the site, which cuts down on transportation emissions. For example, rock excavated from the site was used in cladding.
- The floor is made from timber reclaimed from the St. Lawrence River and the previous building.
- During construction, we used panelized material and screwed connections, so the building can be taken apart, reused and recycled more easily when it’s reached the end of its life.
- One of the walls on the upper floor is infilled with bailed straw, a natural, renewable resource. (Check it out in the viewing portal.)
- Rock Wool insulation in other walls have 50% recycled content.
- The heating system uses a 94%-efficient natural gas hydronic boiler system to heat water.
- CO2 sensors keep a good balance of fresh air coming in, so energy isn’t wasted in heating or cooling.
- A skylight and roof monitor means we don’t need as much artificial lighting.
- To keep landscaping looking good, the irrigation system uses non-potable rainwater that gets gravity-fed to plants.
- Electric vehicle charging stations have reserved parking spots.

Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store is carbon neutral. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/), which means that Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



Recycling and repairs

| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Downhill| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (machine)| $15|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|
| Boot punching (First punch)| $50|
| Boot punching (Additional punch)| $25|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Phone: (604) 872-7858

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).





#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $


More than just a place to get gear – this store is a hub for your outdoor community. As a flagship, it’s home to a couple of cool extras, like a bouldering wall and a special space for events.

*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all community events for the moment. We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings.*

### Local events
Basecamp is our open-concept community space.  Year-round, MEC offers low cost (or even free) clinics and workshops from friendly staff instructors, plus events happening in the larger community – everything from backcountry navigation classes to film screenings. Find [MEC events](https://events.mec.ca/&organization=mec) near you

### Outdoor impact
This year, we’re  donating $1 million to Canadian outdoor organizations to teach outdoor skills, protect wild spaces and grow the communities of people getting active outside. Funding  supports groups across Canada with avalanche safety training, outdoor programs for youth, conserving wilderness and more. [Learn more about community partnerships](/en/explore/outdoor-impact)

### Free display space
Not-for-profit groups and local clubs that share MEC values can use our floor space to tell people what’s going on. Let people know about outdoor issues, collect input on plans, or just get the word out about your club. For more info, please email van_aa@mec.ca or phone the store.



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Vancouver for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

MEC was born in Vancouver in 1971. Over the decades, we’ve moved through a number of spaces, and our current flagship store in Olympic Village was designed with sustainability from the ground up.

Here are some of the green features:

- **Wood is good**. In fact, when it’s a mass timber superstructure like this flagship store, wood is great. The timber is a composite, which means it doesn’t use old-growth sources. It’s also a renewable building material, stores carbon, and can easily be reused at the end of its life.
- **Drip, drip, drip**: It rains 150+ days a year here, so we make the most of it. The roof captures rainwater that funnels into an underground cistern to provide up to 80% of the water used for flushing toilets.
- **Less is more**: 30% less s’mores around the campfire? Not so good. 30% less energy used by a building? Brilliant. This space is designed to use almost one-third less energy than the standards set out by the national energy code for buildings.
- **A renewable day in the neighbourhood**: We’re connected to an innovative energy system that recovers heat from untreated urban wastewater (a sanitized way of saying sewage). It’s renewable and doesn’t rely on fossil fuels.
- **Behind the scenes**: Some of the biggest energy savings come from things you can’t see: heating and cooling systems. The building envelope has more insulation than most and the HVAC units are high-efficiency.
- **Carbon neutral**: Like all MEC buildings, this space is operationally carbon neutral. We buy renewable energy certificates (wind and low-impact hydro) to match the electricity we use in this location.
- **Safe for salmon**: It’s official: this building is certified as Salmon-Safe, thanks to its progressive water management practices. It’s only the second Salmon-Safe urban site in BC – [MEC Head Office](/en/explore/head-office) was the first.

MEC aims to minimize environmental impacts and make our buildings healthy, inviting spaces. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Household batteries (no broken or corroded ones please)
- Bicycle tires and tubes
- Climbing rope – it could become dog leashes, acoustic insulation or stuffing

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (machine)| $15|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Machine sharpen and wax| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Canada Day

Labour Day

Thanksgiving

Remembrance Day

Christmas Day

We are following the advice and guidance of local health authorities to ensure we are providing the safest possible environment to MEC members and staff.

We aim to provide a safe environment that respects everyone’s comfort level and risk tolerance. Thanks for looking out for each other.

Order online and [pick up](/en/explore/in-store-pickup) at this location.

You can [return](/en/explore/covid-19-shipping-and-returns-updates) products to any store.


Phone: (416) 340-2667

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.



## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).



#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $20 – $25|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $20 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|






### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *





If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Toronto for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|



| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Friday

Sunday

Thursday

Christmas Eve

Boxing Day

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

New Years Eve

New Years Day

**MEC is closely monitoring provincial government guidelines to ensure the safety of all members and staff.**

#### Service updates  
- Climbing walls and play areas are closed.  
- Clinics, events and community room bookings are paused.  
- Rental services are paused.  
- Repair shops are open for bike and ski repairs only.

#### Facilities and supply chain
- We are following all government advisories regarding gathering sizes and retail operations  
- We remain committed to our responsible sourcing practices. MEC continues to uphold standards for the health and safety of people who make and distribute the products we sell.   









Phone: 519.896.4972

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike Fitting services are temporarily paused.

## Tune-up packages
###### *Parts are not included in tune-up prices.* **Add-on services for all Tune-up packages: bike cleaning fee $20, hub repack (single) $20, spoke replacement $10 (spokes and nipples not included).



#### Basic Tune-up $100
*For when your bike hasn’t had a tune-up after a season of light use. Designed to get you rolling smoothly again by solving your drivetrain issues, imprecise shifting, loose feeling brakes, or when the whole bike is feeling slightly off.*

- Full bike safety check; all bolts, pivot points, and components inspected for proper torque and wear levels
- Light cleaning -- Frame and fork wiped down and inspected 
- Tires inflated, chain lubricated, and grease applied to seatpost
- Bearing adjustments -- including headset, and front and rear hubs
- Brake systems adjusted -- including cable adjustments and pad position 
- Shifting systems adjusted  -- including cable adjustments and hanger alignment
- Minor wheel truing -- lateral truing and light radial adjustments (spoke replacements extra)
- Minor components installed (chain, cassette, brake pads, tubes) 

#### Advanced Tune-up $140
*For when your bike hasn't had a tune-up after a season of regular riding or has issues caused by dirt, component wear, or light damage. If your bike has poor or inconsistent shifting, soft brakes, or the wheels aren’t straight, this package is for you.*

- Includes every service from the Basic Tune-up, plus:
- Major wheel truing as needed -- including tension and dish adjustments
- Drivetrain removed and fully washed, lubricated, and reinstalled
- Frame, fork, and wheels cleaned -- including braking surfaces
- Installation of up to 2 cables, with housing **parts extra

#### Advanced Plus Tune-up $220
*A comprehensive service for well-used bikes that need of some TLC.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced Tune-up, plus:
- Headset and Wheel bearings cleaned and repacked
- Hydraulic brakes bled, or the installation of all cables and hosing for non-hydraulic systems
- Installation of intermediate-level components (bottom bracket, spoke replacements, tubeless sealant refresh) **parts extra

#### Premium Tune-up 
*Available in Road and MTB specific packages. This complete service gets your bike looking and feeling brand new.*

- Includes every service from the Advanced PLUS Tune-up, plus:
- Complete tear down and rebuild (MTB includes linkages)
- Full frame, component, and wheel detailing
- ** NOT included -- Specialty services such as: Suspension services, dropper post services, and wheel building.




### A la carte bike services
 
|**Wheels**|**Price**|
| ---|--- |
| Tire or tube install| $12|
| Specialty Tire or Tube Install (e-bikes, fat bikes, etc)| $20|
| Wheel true| $15 – $20|
| Wheel build| $70 and up|
| Hub adjustment| $10 – $20|
| Hub overhaul| $25|
| ---|--- |
|**Brakes**|**Price**|
| Brake adjustment| $15 – $25|
| Brake bleed| $30|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
| ---|--- |
|**Drivetrain**|**Price**|
| Gear adjustment| $15 – $20|
| Chain installation| $8 - $17|
| Bottom bracket replacement -- *BB Removal, frame prepped, installation (parts not included)*| $30|
| Shimano internal geared hub service -- *Disassembly, fluid replacement, and lubrication*| $70|
| Shimano Di2 reprogramming and firmware update -- *call for store availability*| $35|
| Cable and housing replacement -- *Installation cost per cable and housing length*| $10|
|---|--- |  
|**Other services**|**Price**|
| Headset adjustment| $10|
| Headset overhaul| $30|
| Miscellaneous accessory install| $10 – $35|
| Bar tape installation -- *Tape extra*| $25|
| Bike boxing -- *Partial disassembly and packaging for shipping or airplane travel*| $60|
| General repairs -- *Minimum shop charge is $5*| $80/hr|





### Free meeting room
*We’re taking precautionary steps due to COVID-19, and pausing all bookings of the Community Room for the moment.  We take your health seriously and are following the recommendations of public health agencies to practice social distancing and limit gatherings. We will continue to monitor and reassess the situation as it evolves. For groups with a current booking, we’ll contact you by email to ensure you can plan accordingly.  *



It’s small, but it does the trick. Available for use by local outdoor clubs, environmental groups and NGOs that have a similar mandate as MEC. Please email at least a month before your event to reserve the space.

- Space: fits 15–20, large windows, natural light
- Equipment: Wall-mounted TV with HDMI, projector with HDMI input, mobile projector display, dry erase whiteboard, MEC guest wifi
- Seating and tables: long tables, office chairs, folding chairs



MEC Kitchener is a new purpose-built store that has been constructed to our specifications. The store will join the co-op’s growing portfolio of high-performance green buildings.

All MEC facilities are subject to our internal green building program, which establishes minimum performance standards. MEC Kitchener will be no different. Like all MEC buildings, we’re proud to say that this store will be operationally carbon neutral.

The building incorporates key elements of MEC’s renewed architectural brand, including a distinctive floating canopy to mark the store’s entrance and wood-infused interiors to define the store and display merchandise.

Green building features will include:

- A high-performance building envelope and heating, cooling and ventilation (HVAC) system
- A high R-value thermal barrier, allowing for superior insulation and energy savings.
- Energy-efficient LED lighting and low-flow fixtures throughout the store.

Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) will be purchased for all energy consumed by MEC Kitchener. We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/). Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



(418) 522.8884

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



Welcome back! MEC in Quebec is open with limits to the number of people inside, plus reduced hours and services. We are following the advice and guidance of local health authorities to ensure we are providing the safest possible environment to MEC members and staff.

Note, we are not yet accepting returns in person. For the safety of MEC staff, we are accepting returns by mail only.



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC Québec City for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

The space we are taking over provides great potential to bring the MEC brand to life inside and out.

The design will be in-keeping with the new architectural embodiment of the MEC brand, with a distinctive floating canopy to mark the store’s entrance and wood-infused interiors to define the store and display merchandise.

All MEC facilities are subject to our internal green building program, which establishes minimum performance standards. MEC’s new Quebec City store will be no different.

Two of the most important aspects of green buildings are the building envelope and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (or HVAC) system. The new Quebec City store will provide R40 and R60 thermal performance in the walls and roof, respectively, and feature a best-in-class roof top HVAC system.

Energy efficient lighting will also be used throughout the store. Plus, Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) will be purchased for all energy consumed by MEC’s Quebec City store.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).



For the safety of staff and members, we are pausing in-store gear repair services for a while. Thanks for your understanding. Want to try some repairs on your own? Learn how to fix your own gear with these [how-to articles and videos on popular gear repair topics](/en/explore/product-care-and-maintenance).

### Recycling
If you bought any of the items below at MEC, you can bring them back to our store for recycling:

- Batteries (no broken or corroded ones please).
- Bike tires and tubes – they can get ground up for tarmac or playground surfaces.
- Climbing rope – it could become dog leashes, acoustic insulation or stuffing.

Due to safety concerns, we do not accept used flammable goods, including camping gas canisters, stove fuel, flares, bear bangers and bear spray. Please contact your local waste management office to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Have a question about something that’s not on the list above? Give us a call or contact your local municipal recycling program.



| Mounting| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Classic| $30|
| Skate| $30|
| Telemark| $50|
| Alpine touring| $50|
| Binding removal*With purchase of new binding or skis*| Free|

| Base tune-up| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| General repairs*Minimum shop charge is $5*| $70/hr|
| Hot wax (hand)| $35|
| Pine tar*Call for availability*| $30|
| Base cleaning| $10|
| Base binder application| $10|

| Additional services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Skin fit and shaping*Call for availability*| $25|
| Boot liner molding*With purchase of boots*| Free|
| Boot fitting| $20|

| Snowshoe services| 
|----|----|
| ---| ---|
| Binding replacement| $70/pair|
| Rivet replacement (per rivet)| $15/unit|
| Binding strap replacement (per strap)| $15/unit|



Phone: 519.668.6657

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC London for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

The space we have taken over provides great potential to bring the MEC brand to life inside and out.

The completely refurbished building incorporates key elements of MEC’s renewed architectural brand, including a distinctive floating canopy to mark the store’s entrance and wood-infused interiors to define the store and display merchandise.

Our new architectural design is featured in the building and improvements include a new roof with R40 thermal protection and a high-performance heating, cooling and ventilation system.

As part of MEC’s extensive green building program, the store operates on renewable energy.



Phone: (416) 221-0030

Our bike mechanics can do it all, from installing fenders to building wheels from scratch. Not sure what work your bike needs? Bring it in for a free safety inspection and we’ll let you know. Call us to set up a bike shop visit. Small repairs can be done while you shop.

Bike fitting services are temporarily paused.



Bike services

Every purchase at MEC supports your community. From helping people get to Rouge National Urban Park, to leading nature walks and teaching families how to plan their first camping trip, these local organizations and programs make getting outside just a little bit easier. MEC works with many groups in the North York community, including:



Never camped before? Don’t know where to start, or just want a refresher before your next trip? With support from MEC, [Parks Canada’s Learn to Camp program](https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/serapprocher-connect/ltc-dlc) introduces you and your family to the basics of camping in Canada’s beautiful natural settings. Through overnight experiences and daytime workshops, you’ll learn camping skills like how to set up a tent, plan a camping menu and cook outdoors.



MEC and the Canadian Wilderness Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) are working together to create community support for conservation in Rouge National Urban Park and around the GTA. As a chapter of CPAWS, [Wildlands League](https://wildlandsleague.org/)’s mission is to protect the natural world that supports us with a connected network of wild lands and protected natural areas, and to promote recreation and resource use in ways that are sustainable for nature, communities and the economy.



MEC partners with [Parkbus](https://parkbus.ca/index) to help thousands of Canadians visit national and provincial parks from major cities across Canada – including a free shuttle from Toronto to Rouge National Urban Park. From day trips and family camping weekends to wilderness expeditions, Parkbus offers accessible transportation options to help city dwellers connect with nature.



[Healing in Nature: Bereavement Network](http://bereavementnetwork.ca/) (HNBN) is a non-for-profit project that provides grief support for youth and young adults through nature walks. They host walking groups on local trails for youth and young adults who are grieving, including newcomers to the community and refugees.



### Grants and donations
Our grant program has given tens of millions of dollars to conservation and the outdoor community in Canada – everything from product donations and advocacy projects to activity funding and land acquisitions. Find out if your community project is eligible and learn [how to apply for support](/en/explore/apply-grant-support).



If you love trails, snow, water or fresh air, this is your store. Visit MEC North York for outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration.

Events

MEC North York is part of the co-op’s growing portfolio of high-performance green buildings. All MEC facilities are designed to meet these performance standards as part of our internal green building program.

The building incorporates key elements of MEC’s renewed architectural brand, including a distinctive floating canopy to mark the store’s entrance and wood-infused interiors to define the store and display merchandise.

Like all MEC buildings, MEC North York is operationally carbon neutral. The store is designed to be almost 50% more energy efficient than a comparable commercial building, based on Model National Energy Code for Buildings [MNECB] 1997.

Green building features includes a high-performance building envelope and heating, cooling and ventilation (HVAC) system, as well as extensive LED lighting. In addition:

- The high-performance building envelope includes structural insulated panels (SIPs), which allow for superior insulation and energy savings.
- The HVAC system features a heat recovery ventilator with underfloor air distribution, and energy-efficient heat pumps for heating and cooling.
- Energy-efficient LED lighting is installed in 80% of the retail areas.

MEC North York is spread over two floors, with a feature stairwell connecting the two levels. The space is marked by a saw-tooth roof lined with clerestory windows that flood the retail floor with natural light.

MEC North York meets the Tier 1 level of the Toronto Green Standard (TGS).

We purchase Green Electricity Certificates and Green Natural Gas Certificates from [Bullfrog Power](https://www.bullfrogpower.com/). Bullfrog procures renewable energy (wind, micro-hydro and biogas) on our behalf for electricity and natural gas.

MEC aims to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impacts in all our stores. Learn more about our [green buildings](/en/explore/green-buildings).

