Saturday, March 21, 2015

Concrete or asphalt?

Last week, I biked the new multi-use path on Warden Avenue from Major Mackenzie to 16th Avenue in Markham, about 2km in length.  It's a 3m wide concrete path plus a 1m wide strip between the path and the curb, providing ample space in the boulevard.  Here's a project news release.


There's currently no signage or pavement markings indicating that cyclists are welcome in the boulevard here.  It looks like a wide sidewalk, particularly since it is concrete.

There's a debate in Markham about whether asphalt or concrete is a better surface for cycletracks and multi-use paths.  I rode the asphalt path on Major Mackenzie from Angus Glen Community Centre, and then connected to the concrete MUP on Warden.  I found the asphalt had a smoother ride (no joints to ride over).  The condition of the asphalt path has held up nicely since it was build a few years ago, though concrete is expected to last longer.

Here's a short video showing segments of both the asphalt (Major Mackenzie) and concrete (Warden).  Sorry it's a bit shakey, my helmet cam wasn't on tight enough.  0 - 1:10 is Major Mackenzie, 1:10 - 2:08 is Warden.

My verdict: I don't think concrete is worth the extra cost.  If it is built properly, an asphalt path will serve the cyclists needs.  I'd rather have more kilometres of usable paths.  However, time will tell on the full life cycle costs and maintenance requirements.  The paths on Warden and Major Mackenzie offer a good opportunity to study how the two different surfaces hold up over time.

Sunday, March 8, 2015

Highlights from the 2015 Toronto Bike Show March 6-8, 2015

I checked out the Toronto Bike Show on March 6, 2015 for a look at all things bicycling.  I was curious to see what all the hype was about.


Here are a few of my highlights:

  • I picked up the new map for the Greenbelt Route launching this summer
  • I joined the Toronto Bicycle Network, the largest recreational cycling club in the GTA.  I look forward to some group rides this season, many through York Region
  • Viewed bicycle art by Luigia Zilli
  • Found a Tandem rental in Mississauga MBS Tandems
  • Got some great cycling resources on the Laurentians and Eastern Townships of Quebec, for when I visit there this summer
  • Picked up some handy cycling maps from Transportation Options for various municipalities around the GTA and beyond, as well as the Cycling in Ontario 2015 publication
  • Grabbed some reading material: Pedal magazine, Get Out there Magazing, Canadian Cyclist magazine
  • Learned about some potential events I may participate in, like the Ride Don't Hide for Mental Health on June 21st in Newmarket

Some long distance routes...

Bicycle Polo match.  This was serious competition. Their maneuvering skills were impressive!

Flatlands Freestyle competition.

Trailblazers Tandem Cycling Club, gives those with limited or no sight the opportunity to cycle.

Lots and lots of bikes, but I didn't spend much time looking at the retail section this time.

Durham Mountain Biking Club has a sister chapter, the York Mountain Biking Assocation (YMBA).

Folding bikes...

Trailers of all kinds...

There was something for everyone at the Toronto Bike Show.  It definitely got me excited for the warmer days ahead!