Winter Cycling Advocate Inspires Change in Winnipeg’s Streets

Winter cycling is gaining traction in Winnipeg, thanks to the advocacy of individuals like Patty Wiens. Her journey from hesitant commuter to passionate winter cyclist is detailed in her upcoming book, That’ll Never Work: Challenging the Myths Around Biking in a Winter City, which launches on November 8, 2023, at McNally Booksellers. Wiens’ story resonates with many, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of cycling during Winnipeg’s harsh winters.

Wiens began her journey with a simple decision: to ride her bicycle instead of relying on her car for daily commutes. After years of what she describes as the “car BS,” she moved to a more walkable neighbourhood and acquired a bike named Nora. This shift occurred as her children grew up and left home, allowing her to reconsider her transportation choices. In a city known for its severe winters and inadequate public transport, the transition was complex yet rewarding.

By spring 2022, Wiens had merged her lifestyle with her passion for cycling. Her commute, which once took ten minutes by car, expanded to a challenging 40 minutes by bike. Despite the obstacles, she relished the adventure, even when colleagues deemed her approach “radical.” The financial aspect of commuting also played a crucial role; paying $12 daily for parking intensified her resolve to cycle.

As the autumn approached, so did the dread of putting her bike away. The thought of returning to the slow and unreliable transit system or facing a monthly parking fee of $280 was daunting. A colleague’s casual inquiry about being a “winter cyclist” prompted a moment of reflection. Initially, Wiens dismissed the idea, attributing it to her Brazilian roots, which had accustomed her to milder winters.

Yet, her partner, Ian Wiens, encouraged her to continue biking despite the calendar suggesting otherwise. Inspired by a recent trip to Amsterdam, she decided to embrace winter cycling. “There’s no bad weather, just bad clothing,” she recalled her sister-in-law saying, a sentiment that pushed her to explore the possibilities of winter cycling.

Wiens immersed herself in research, watching numerous YouTube videos on winter cycling techniques. Despite the lack of representation for women of her age, she found valuable insights from Tom Babin, a Calgary-based cyclist who shared his experiences through his channel, Shifter. Armed with new knowledge, she ventured out during the first snowfall, donning layers of clothing and a sense of determination.

The successful ride to the local mall emboldened her to tackle the full commute to work. Although the journey took an hour and left her sweaty, it marked a significant milestone in her cycling journey. She returned to her office, ready to share her experience with colleagues who were still stuck in traffic.

Encouraged by Ian, Wiens sought community support and resources, discovering a Discord server initiated by a fellow Winnipeg cyclist named Andrew. This platform became a hub for local cyclists, offering advice and camaraderie. As Wiens navigated the challenges of winter commuting, she shared her questions and concerns on social media, connecting with a growing community of winter cycling enthusiasts.

Her online presence quickly gained traction, attracting thousands of followers who resonated with her message. Many shared a common sentiment: the feeling of neglect from decision-makers regarding cyclist safety and infrastructure. Wiens observed that, predominantly male cyclists also faced challenges that women encounter regularly, such as feelings of exclusion and frustration.

Recognizing the potential of e-bikes to enhance her winter riding experience, Wiens and Ian invested in electric bicycles. They documented her journey on YouTube, aiming to inspire others, particularly women, to embrace winter cycling. Wiens’ candid and humorous approach to sharing her experiences contributed to her growing popularity, as she became a local figure in the cycling community.

Reflecting on her journey, Wiens emphasizes empowerment and visibility for women in cycling. She aims to create a culture where women can feel as confident and powerful on bikes as men do in larger vehicles. Her advocacy is a testament to the impact of personal stories in transforming perceptions and encouraging more people to take to the streets on two wheels, even in winter conditions.

As the launch of her book approaches, Wiens remains committed to promoting a cycling-friendly environment in Winnipeg. Through her efforts, she not only challenges societal norms around winter cycling but also inspires others to reconsider their own transportation choices. Her story serves as a reminder that with determination, even the coldest winters can lead to warmer communities on bicycles.