What is the Pacific Populaire Bike Ride?

Greater Vancouver's first major public ride of the cycling season is the Pacific Populaire. Since its inception in 1986 the focus of this event has been to encourage participation by all cyclists regardless of fitness level, cycling experience, or age. For some, the ride is a challenge to turn in a fast time, a personal best, or to complete a greater distance than in a previous year. Others will be out for a relaxed spring ride, fresh air, and exercise.

The pre-registration form will save adult participants $5, but you do not need to pre-register for the event. Riders can just show up at Riley Park Community Centre (Ontario and 30th in Vancouver, across from Nat Bailey Stadium) on the morning of the ride between 7:30 and 8:55 am. At the sign-up desk riders choose a distance (25, 50, or 100 km) and receive the appropriate map with a detailed route sheet. The starts for the various distances will be 2 mins apart starting with the 100s, leaving at 9 a.m. sharp. The start is on Ontario Street.

Safety first... No roads are closed for the event. Participants must share the road with motorists, watch for pedestrians, and obey all traffic rules. In accordance with BC law ALL CYCLISTS MUST WEAR HELMETS at all times during the ride. Your bike should be in good working order.

The usual randonneur equipment rules have been relaxed for this event - fenders and lights are optional. However, reflective clothing and rear lights are recommended - they will help make you more visible to motorists if it rains. Randonneur time limits also will not apply, so take your time if you have to.

Participants under 19 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian throughout the ride, or another adult designated by the participant's parent or guardian.

The three distance groups start approximately 2 mins apart, starting with the 100s. The routes all make their way to 'control stops' where riders must have their control cards stamped and signed by a ride official.. Food and drink is provided at the control stops, and at the finish if supplies last.

At the end of the ride, the rider turns in the control card, and is awarded a finisher's pin.