TORONTO—Ontario by Bike has released a new study that sheds light on cycling tourism trends in Ontario and the news is good for Manitoulin.
According to the study, cycling in the province is continuing on the upswing, with recreational cycling, touring and event participation heading the list of popular activities. Manitoulin scores on all three. Longer distance rides are also on the rise, which Manitoulin offers in spades with its well-mapped cycle routes crisscrossing the Island.
The report indicates that in 2023, 58 percent of cyclist taking part in the report did one or more overnight trips that included Ontario and 38 percent did two or more, while a whopping 68 percent did three or more day trips that included cycling.
Becoming cycle-friendly is a big plus for businesses. Of the 1,680 businesses certified as bicycle friendly by Ontario By Bike, 47 percent of cyclists visited one or more during their trips—with accommodations and food and beverage businesses being where cyclists spend the big dollars.
Cyclists are also getting slightly younger, with more riders under the age of 44 and fewer being retired.
When it comes to cycling in a group, 49 percent stated that they frequently ride with a group or cycling club with the most frequently cited trip planning resource being recommendations from trusted sources including ride friends and family followed by a number of other info sources and websites. Thanks to Manitoulin Island Cycling Advocates, our Island has a great app for that through Driftscape.
Manitoulin scores on these fronts as well, with the popular Manitoulin Passage Ride attracting large numbers of cyclists each year.
The report offers some interesting insight into the coming cycling season, with e-bikes continuing to grow in popularity. Some 22 percent of cyclists participating in the study already own one or more e-bike in their household and 17 percent are considering purchasing one soon.
With the end of the pandemic has come a corresponding increase in cycling events, with recreational/community and charity/fundraisers being the most popular.
There has also been a marked increase in those who are cycling year-round.
