Hot new cycling trends to hop on

Is there anything more satisfying than riding a bike in the sun, the wind in your hair and the road straight ahead of you? Yes, there is. It's getting ahead of the latest trends and making them your own.

After two years of living in a staycation bubble and hiking around Ontario, it's safe to say a lot of us have realized our province is more beautiful than we imagined. But another season of backpacking? Maybe not. What about bike-packing?

Bike-packing

It's not that there's anything wrong with backpacking, but this may be the summer to tackle Ontario's incredible bike trails, which zig-zag from the Quebec border through Algonquin Park and along our rivers and lakeshores.

Along with all the essentials –think panniers, maps, water, snacks, layers, a spare tire and your CAA Everyday membership (we do roadside Bike Assist* calls, after all) –there are also bikes perfectly designed for your bike-packing pleasure. Look for one with lower gear ratios and multiple mounts for your gear, as well as a durable but light frame.

While you're kitting up, consider some wearable tech: there are fitness trackers that auto-sync with third-party apps (hello, MyFitnessPal!) and have a wide range of downloadable maps, built-in GPS, altimeter (yes, that hill really is that big), and a vast array of sensors. Make sure you've also downloaded your CAA Mobile App so you can have your Membership number on your phone if you need it to find a great place to eat or shop that comes with CAA Membership savings.

Hit the (gravel) road

Remember when mountain bikes came out a million years ago, and we all raced to get one? They're still great, but off-road hybrids have evolved with new tech, like hydraulic disk brakes, a more upright frame style and a chain bracket that keeps debris clear. The result? A gravel bike, perfect for off-roading up and down mountain valleys. Some even come with luggage racks for bike-packing, commuting, or blasting down Ottawa's Sir John A MacDonald Parkway on NCC Sunday Bike Days with the kids. (Look for CAA...we'll be there, too!)

There's a card for that

Are you one of the 1.2 million Ontario residents who cycle rather than drive daily? It's good for you and great for the environment. Choosing a lifestyle that isn't car-centric has plenty of rewards –particularly if you have a CAA Everyday card. Designed for people who choose to walk, run, scooter or cycle, CAA

Everyday gets you all the great benefits of membership, like savings on auto, home, travel and pet insurance, as well as discounts on every day and lifestyle purchases. And if you pop a tire or break a chain? CAA Bike Assist is built into the Membership.*

*Bike Assist offers one call a year within 10km.