New things to try in 2025 on your bike
Looking to mix up your riding season next year?
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Part of what makes life exciting is trying new things. Maybe you’ve been doing the same sorts of rides for years and want to mix things up. In that case, now is the time to start planning because 2025 is around the corner.
Bikepacking
Why not turn your ride into an adventure? If you’re into camping and love cycling, why not do both at once? Bikepacking is growing in popularity across Canada, and it’s no surprise – we live in one of the most scenic countries out there. With bikepacking, you’ll use frame bags to haul your gear, but if you prefer, you can go with a classic touring setup using panniers or a trailer.
How to plot a 14,000-km bikepacking route from coast to coast
Hit the trails!
If you’re used to riding on the road, consider borrowing a pal’s MTB and hitting the trails. And if you’re used to riding off-road, try the tarmac. Depending on where you live, there may be lots of dirt roads to check out on a gravel bike – or just use your road bike with some fatter tires. If you’re lucky enough to live in a velodrome, you could sign up to borrow a track bike and try that out. You may have to take a short course to be able to ride on the track, but you’ll learn some valuable skills in doing so.
Everesting
If you’re into climbing and looking for a fun challenge, Everesting might be just what you’re after. It’s a popular feat for both runners and cyclists. The idea is simple: pick a hill, and then ride or run up and down it until you’ve gained a total of 8,848 metres in elevation—equal to the height of Mount Everest.
Everesting in Canada: Climbing 8,848 m on five iconic Canadian inclines
The key to Everesting is choosing the right local climb. There’s no shortage of opinions on the best grade—steep enough to be challenging, but not too brutal—but thankfully, there are plenty of resources online to help you find the perfect spot. It’s going to be a long, tough day, but the sense of accomplishment is well worth it. And if you’re planning ahead, you can set it as a goal for later in the summer and train for it.
Try a group ride
If you’re used to riding solo, why not jump in with a local group ride? Be sure to do some research before, as different groups do different types of rides. Some may be spicy and fast with town line sprints, while others may be more social. Reach out to someone who is a regular on the ride as well, as some group rides sometimes require you to be a club member, or if it’s a competitive one, you may need to be vetted for safety’s sake. If you’re nervous about riding in a pack, there are always lots of beginner group rides where you can learn the ins and outs of riding with others. You may make some new friends too!
Time trials?
The ultimate test is the one on your own. Lots of clubs offer weekly time trials, and although a time trial bike is faster, a pair of clip-ons is just fine. Or ditch the aero bars and do it Eddy Merckx style. The nice thing about weekly time trials is not only is it a good workout, but you can measure your improvement as the year goes on. Plus, learning how to pace yourself and find your limits is super helpful when it comes to group rides or local races.
Up yer FTP!
Are you a data kinda person? If you are looking for a challenge next year, what about trying to increase your FTP? Measure it early on in the year and then find workouts (there are plenty online) or spring for an online workout program—or even coach—and see how much fitter you can get. Even if you’re not planning on doing races, it will be a good way to set a goal and see how far you can go. Having a goal will keep you motivated to get out there on those days when you aren’t feeling it.
Whatever you pick, get ready for another great year of cycling!