Vancouver cyclists will have the chance to take over city streets next month with HUB Cycling’s second Bike the Night event.
“We’re very excited to be celebrating cycling in such a unique way,” said Tracy Wilkins, HUB Cycling’s special events manager. “Being fully permitted allows us to open the streets to riders of all ages who want to cycle in a fun and social environment.”
Set for Sept. 16, this year’s Bike the Night will kick off at 6 p.m. with a pre-ride party featuring music, games, food and giveaways. Wilkins said Mountain Equipment Co-op, which has partnered with HUB for the event, will be on hand for bike decorating and tune ups.
Organizers are expecting more than 5,000 people of all ages to sign up for the ride. Participants are encouraged to decorate their bikes with lights and come in costume.
The 10-kilometre ride starts at 8 p.m. at Concord Pacific Place and will take cyclists through many of Vancouver’s iconic streets and over the Burrard Bridge. Streets will be completely shut down to traffic for the event, with some controlled crossings to for cars and pedestrians.
“The combination of music, costumes, bikes, glowing lights and thousands of people creates a very unique community experience,” Wilkins said.
Bike the Night is modeled after Montreal’s hugely popular Tour La Nuit, which is organized by Velo Quebec and now gets nearly 20,000 participants each year.
Registration is required and costs $15 until Sept. 1, after that the cost goes up to $20. Registration includes access to the ride, entry to win a MEC bike and other prizes, and admission to the pre-ride party. Youth 16 and younger ride for free.
For more information, or to register, visit bikethenight.ca.
