Bikefest: Celebrate the Awesomeness of Two Wheels

One of the most enduring childhood memories can be getting your first bike. Not just because it was a new toy to play with, but because that bike gave you your first taste of independence, the freedom to explore your neighbourhood, and may have helped create friendships that you still have today.

At MEC, we love bikes, so we’re kicking off the start of cycling season with MEC Bikefest, a community celebration of all things bike related. It's got skills clinics, demos, group rides and workshops. You can try out gear and test ride a new bike from vendors on site. And just like your first bike, MEC Bikefest invites you to experience the wonder of cycling and to get excited about being part of the bike community.


Demos -
How many times have you found yourself in one of our stores drooling over new bikes and gear, wanting to walk out the door and take it for a ride? If you’ve thought about taking a bike out for a ride at one of our stores, but haven’t yet, then come down to Bikefest. It’s a chance to look at new bikes and gear from our vendors, and then take them for a test ride.


Bike Clinics and Maintenance -
Do you ever feel like you’ve got a bike that could ride at a higher level than you, like you’re always trying to keep up with your friends instead of leading the way? Maybe your strength fades right as your ride starts to get good? If that’s the case, try one of the many riding clinics offered at Bikefest. They cover everything from how improve your riding, what foods can boost your energy, what to eat before your next big ride, how to build your strength and endurance, or how to feel more relaxed in the saddle so you can stay focused on your riding. If you’re thinking of starting to bike commute, or are getting into mountain biking, or want to know where some of the best local rides are, there are also clinics for you at Bikefest.

At a Bikefest bike maintenance clinic, you can learn how to maintain your bike (including how to fix a flat tire without using language that requires a parental advisory). We’ll have clinics where you can learn about bike parts and their functions, how to diagnose problems, perform basic maintenance, learn the all-important skill of how to fix a flat tire, or how to recognize when to just bring your bike to your local MEC store for more major repairs. If you already know all of the above, there are also more advanced maintenance clinics that focus on drive train adjustment and replacement, brake adjustment, or derailleur adjustment.


Bike Swap -
If you’re looking to buy/sell some gently used cycling gear or pick up some spare parts, you won’t want to miss the gear swap. If you’re looking to sell some gear, call your local store’s Member Services desk to book a table today.
Fun times

Most importantly, like those childhood days spent riding with your friends, Bikefest is all about having fun. With live music, food, free prize giveaways and activities for kids, you don’t even need to be a bike enthusiast to have a good time. So bring your bike, your family, and your friends, and embrace the awesomeness of two wheels.



Go to mec.ca/bikefest to find out when Bikefest is happening in your area and to get the details on all the scheduled activities.