This I am sure is something that has never been discussed before. I’ve spoken recently about the rise of cycling as a way of commuting. That has spilled over to those who have decided to use cycling as a way to stay fit or get out some of their competitive juices.. or just to socialize.

There are three main areas where people go to train on their bikes in Montreal. The first is Le Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Go in the evenings say Tuesday-Thursday and it’s packed with cyclists. On most nights you’ll see lines of 10-15 guys taking turns at the front, whizzing by at 35-40km/h.

In the past two years or so, I’ve seen a growing number of organized groups that train during the week. They have coaches and they are given tips on riding, how to train and they train as a pack. Quite effective since it’s very social (you can chat in the pack). The circuit is largely void of cars.

What’s surprising is how popular this type of training is with women. I’d say a good 40% of the packs that train in this organized fashion are composed of women.

The next most important place to train is Mount Royal - Camilien Houde. There are always groups of riders going up and down to get their climbing repeats in.

Lastly, is the Seaway. The seaway, or La Voie Maritime is a strip of land that runs 10km’s. It’s connected to Ile Notre Dame by a dirt road that’s quite well maintained. The seaway itself is paved. If you ever take the Champlain bridge going south you can see the ice bridge to your right. This bridge gets you to the seaway. It’s accessed via Nun’s Island. Email me if you need directions.

There are no cars on the seaway.. just lots of nats.

In terms of racing, don’t miss Les Mardis Lachine in Lachine.. on.. Tuesday! Some of the fastest racing in the province, some say the continent. I’ve raced it and it’s scary fast. Plus you also don’t want to miss the podium ceremonies presented by Tino Rossi. That alone is worth the trip.

Audrey Lemieux - Mardi Lachine photo: Justin Knotzke

Also on Wednesday nights in Laval is racing for veterans (30-60 year olds) and women. Don’t let the ages fool you, the racing is also very fast. In the past few years, nearly half of the top 10 of Mardi Lachine has been composed of guys aged 30-40.

Wednesday night - Laval. Eric Vani on the right and Nick Tosques on the left. photo: Justin Knotzke

So if you are looking of ways to mix with Montrealers in ways that you haven’t thought of before, and get into shape, Montreal offers lots lots of ways to do this.

Related posts:

1. A week of women’s bike racing.
2. Montreal bridge trivia
3. How do you get a derailed train off a bridge
4. Montreal’s missing bike paths
5. The Outgames