Fionn did not move to Richmond Hill expecting that something as basic as getting around would become a daily challenge. Having previously lived in more walkable cities, she found the shift to a car-dependent environment both frustrating and limiting. Turning to cycling as a practical alternative, Fionn quickly discovered that the lack of safe, connected bike infrastructure made even short trips stressful. Rather than quietly adapting, she chose to speak up—adding her voice to growing calls for safer cycling conditions and more people-friendly streets in Richmond Hill. Here’s our short chat with her.
PERSONAL JOURNEY
What made you decide to learn how to ride a bike at this stage in your life?
I’ve always lived in big cities and relied on public transit to get around. When I moved to Richmond Hill in 2022, the change was pretty jarring. Sure, I could take the bus or walk to run errands, but it wasn’t exactly efficient or convenient. Riding a bike, on the other hand, would make my commutes much faster and open up more places to explore. By the time I learned that STRH’s Bike Club offered lessons, I was more than ready – and really excited – to give it a try.
I’ve realized that it’s hard to talk about any form of transportation – not just biking – without unintentionally offending someone who prefers a different method
Can you describe the moment when biking stopped feeling scary and started feeling empowering?
It really helped to be guided by an instructor who was incredibly patient throughout my learning process, especially since I tend to get frustrated with myself easily. It took many attempts for me to get out of my own head and focus on one step at a time. The first moment I truly felt like I “got it” was when I successfully completed a lap around the park on my own.
Perspective Shift
How did learning to ride change the way you see your streets, sidewalks, or traffic?
Although I’m not confident enough to ride on the streets yet, I’ve definitely been taking note of the infrastructure around Richmond Hill. I’ve started looking out for areas with lower traffic stress and safer bike lanes.
Was there a moment when you realized biking wasn’t just personal anymore, but political or communal?
Yes. I’ve realized that it’s hard to talk about any form of transportation – not just biking – without unintentionally offending someone who prefers a different method. What should be a simple idea, like coexisting and sharing the road, has surprisingly become a controversial and even political topic these days.
What’s something drivers or longtime cyclists might not realize about new riders?
I think many drivers, longtime cyclists or even pedestrians might forget that new riders come in all ages and sizes! Please be patient with us and let’s make sure everyone is safe.
Activism & Motivation
Why did you decide to get involved in bike activism rather than just biking on your own?
Learning to ride a bike is challenging enough on its own, but doing so in order to commute around an unfamiliar and heavily car-dependent city can be especially intimidating. I wanted to learn more about the concerns and issues that seasoned cyclists have already identified.
How does being a beginner influence the way you advocate for safer streets?
I’d like to advocate for more multi-use paths throughout the city. Current micromobility by-laws state that bicycles should not be on sidewalks or use pedestrian crossings. As a new rider over the age of 14, this makes me especially nervous about having to share lanes with cars. We’re often told that these rules aren’t strictly enforced, but that raises the question of why the underlying conflict isn’t being addressed.
What kinds of changes would make someone like you—new, cautious, or curious—feel welcome on a bike?
Dedicated bike lanes and more multi-use paths would make a huge difference for someone like me who’s still cautious. Knowing there’s a clear, protected space to ride would make biking feel safer and less intimidating, especially in busy or unfamiliar areas.
Policies that better reflect real-world biking conditions would also help new riders feel supported. If certain rules aren’t strictly enforced, acknowledging that and adjusting them to prioritize safety could reduce confusion and anxiety for beginners.
Learning to ride a bike is challenging enough on its own, but doing so in order to commute around an unfamiliar and heavily car-dependent city can be especially intimidating.
Inclusion & Access
How can cities make biking feel less like a sport and more like everyday transportation?
When we look at highly frequented areas such as shopping centres, banks, and grocery stores, safe and visible designated bike parking isn’t always available. This often reinforces the assumption that most cyclists are riding for sport and won’t need to make stops along the way.
Another change I’d like to see is a bike-sharing program in Richmond Hill, similar to those in Toronto or Vaughan. By offering more options and opportunities for biking as an efficient and practical mode of transportation, I believe more residents would be encouraged to give it a try.
What would you say to someone who thinks biking “isn’t for people like me”?
I’d love to hear their concerns! I didn’t think biking was for me at first either, which is why it took me so long to get started. And trust me, I still have my own concerns about biking safety. That said, it’s not only a low-cost and efficient way to get around the city – it can also be a fun way to explore parks and bike trails, get some exercise, and enjoy some fresh air.
Looking Forward
What’s your hope for someone who’s just thinking about getting on a bike for the first time?
If you’re interested in learning but feeling hesitant, just reach out! The STRH Bike Club is a great local resource for learning how to ride safely and for getting tips on choosing the right bike for you.
If you could change one thing about your city to support new riders, what would it be?
Clearer signage, beginner-friendly maps, and accessible information about safe routes would help new or curious riders feel more welcome. One exciting project currently in the works by a STRH member is a bike map of the city that shows the stress level of roads throughout Richmond Hill, which would be a fantastic tool for trip planning.
How do you imagine your relationship with biking evolving a year from now?
I’m really excited to get back on my bike this spring! My next step is to learn how to navigate the roads safely. Of course, biking probably won’t replace other modes of transit for trips outside the city, but it will definitely help me save time and get to know Richmond Hill better. I’m also looking forward to exploring more of Richmond Hill’s parks and trails this summer. Hopefully, a year from now, I’ll see even more of you biking around the city!