Cycling

MEC has a huge range of bikes, from kids’ first balance bikes to sleek road rides and commuter hybrid bikes that span categories – great if your budget and storage space allow for just one bike. A gravel bike or mountain bike might be right for you if dirt trails and backroads are where you like to ride. The newest addition to the bike lineup is electric bikes that reduce your travel time and extend the distance you can cover by bike. Check out our guide to e-bikes to understand wattage, range and top speeds.

Has it been a while since your last ride? Take a look at how to buy a bike – it’ll get you rolling in the right direction.

Helmets lights and locks

Most places in Canada require that you ride with a bike helmet plus front and rear lights if you’re out after dusk. You’ll also need a sturdy bike lock to secure your ride and fenders to make a rainy-day commute way more enjoyable.

Trailers, racks and bike bags

Frame packs and saddlebags are popular options for bike touring. They are easy to install and don’t require additional mounting points or racks. Panniers and front or rearracks can handle gear for extended backpacking trips and a handlebar bag keeps essentials right under your nose. Attach a child trailer to your bike stem and turn your daily ride into a family affair or use a cargo trailer to haul a week’s worth of groceries and feel that sweet velo love.

Cycle shoes and pedals

The secret to transferring all your power and control through the pedal stroke is being clipped in shoe-to-pedal. SPD (2-hole clipless) is a common system used by mountain bikers, but there are also 3-hole systems for road and urban bikers. Cycling shoes and pedal cleats are like phones and charging cables, they need to be compatible to function. To learn more, check out our article on how to choose bike pedals and cleats.

Tires, wheels and bike components

Fixing bikes is just a fact of life if you’re into riding bikes. It’s always a good idea to ride with a few tools, spare parts and a pump so you can easily get back on the road. Worn rubber, cuts or cracks indicate that it’s time for new bike tires, look at the side of the tires currently on your bike to find out the size. New components from brands like Shimano, Jagwire and SRAM can add new life to a bike that seen lots of miles. If your bike is skipping gears, your brakes are mushy or you hear strange clunking noises, it may be time for a component overhaul.

Our bike shop mechanics provide a full range of repair services, including minor adjustments and repairs, component upgrades, suspension work, or tune-ups. Call your local MEC store to book bike services.

Bike clothing

If you ride all year, you’ll need a selection of bike clothingand a system for riding in the rain and cold weather. Technical commuter bike apparel handles wet weather and is bright enough to be seen easily. Cycling gloves often have durable leather or padded palms and a fleecy sniffle patch on the thumb is a nice addition.