How to cycle to the stadium safely

WINNIPEG – It’s called Pembina Highway. But cyclists, know it as something else.

Pembina between Plaza Drive and University Crescent has been named one of the worst stretches in Winnipeg by cyclists. There’s no bike path, cars are merging and there’s a ton of traffic – even more on Winnipeg Blue Bomber game days.

“This section is good,” said one cyclist. “The bridge is very dangerous.”

“You have to watch out for trucks and big trailers that go by,” said another cyclist.

Even if you take every precaution possible, cycling instructors say there are a few ways to make your trip safer.

“Ride right down the centre of the lane,” said Dave Elmore with CAN-Bike. “Occupy that lane right until you get past the stretch and then you can go back to the rightmost position. You should really be thinking about your safety. Not about the drivers behind you and the inconvenience you may be causing them.”

If you still feel uneasy, you can always opt for the less beaten path. A system of trails snakes from downtown right to the university. A map of all the city’s paths can be found on Bike Winnipeg’s website.

“They’re very calm,” said Mark Cohoe, Bike Winnipeg’s executive director. “They’re comfortable routes to ride. You won’t see much traffic.”

Getting you past Pembina and to the stadium safe and sound.