‘The biggest challenge’: Saskatoon winter cyclists brave frigid  temperatures

While -30 degree temperatures kept many Saskatoon residents inside Saturday, those in the Saskatoon Cycles community were happy to enjoy the brisk January air.

While the -30 degree temperatures kept many Saskatoon residents inside on Saturday, those in the Saskatoon Cycles community were happy to enjoy the brisk January air.

“We’re going to shorten our ride quite a bit, but we are thankful that there’s very little wind and it’s sunny. Looks like it’s going to be a beautiful day. ... Seeing this frost, and there’s kind of steam coming off the river, I think it’ll be great,” Jory Cadman, a Saskatoon Cycles board member, said.

Saskatoon Cycles’ Ice Cycle event returned for the first time since 2023. Winter cycling enthusiasts met at Gather Local Market for some activities before hitting the road for a group bike ride, also known as a slow roll.

“Just celebrating winter cyclists. We’ve got lots of different things to engage with. And then we’re going to go on a short ride and come back. We’ve got prizes. We’ve got Gather Bucks, hot chocolate. Just general celebrating winter cycling,” Cadman said.

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While this particular event was a special occasion, the group meets often to enjoy bike rides together throughout the year.

“We get together once a month to do a slow roll all year round. If anyone is interested, all that information is on the Saskatoon Cycles website. ... We usually do kind of a one-hour ride, and then we hang out in here and have something to eat or drink and just chat,” Cadman said.

Cadman shared that the group is always happy to exchange helpful tips when it comes to the unique challenges that come along with winter cycling.

“The biggest challenge is just knowing how to dress. As long as you’re dressed warm, you’re okay. Often we have more of a problem with overheating because you’re working so hard, and then you get a little sweaty, so that’s always a challenge,” Cadman said.

Saskatoon Cycles is always welcoming new members, and Cadman shared that while the idea of winter cycling can be intimidating, she encourages anyone interested to give it a try and join the community.

“A little bit of an investment goes into your gear and your setup. But once you’ve set up, you’re good to go. ... It’s a lot of fun. It’s a great community, there’s lots of experienced cyclists around if they have questions. Very welcoming environment,” Cadman said.