Update: Cyclist fends off grizzly bear with knife in B.C. backcountry

A man who resides on Quadra Island who was on a backwoods adventure in mainland B.C. with his bike was attacked by a grizzly bear on Monday. According to conservation officers, the man suffered serious injuries and is being treated for non-life threatening injuries as first reported by the CBC.

The wildlife encounter took place about 65 km north of Powell River. The man was on a solo wilderness trip and encountered what was believed to be a grizzly bear. The Quadra Island resident was carrying a knife which he used to try and defend himself. The man who was travelling with his bike, was able to wound the predator with the knife scaring it off the B.C. Conversation Officer Service told CBC.

The encounter took place on a logging road. The individual was biking and hiking alone near Ramsay Arm when the attack happened. Despite the injuries, he was able to ride to a nearby camp where he was received first aid treatment before being transported to an area hospital. He is currently being treated for serious but non-life threatening injuries according to the report.

Earlier this year, a Yukon cyclist was chased down a highway by a grizzly bear. Luckily in that encounter, a driver was able to intervene driving between the rider and the bear scaring it off.

UPDATE: CBC Interview with Colin Dowler: