As of May 3 in most if not all Canadian municipalities, yes! As long as you are not infected with COVID-19, symptomatic, or otherwise self-isolating you may ride your bike.

Riding a bicycle is compatible with physical distancing. The City of Calgary even notes the 2 metres (6 feet) is about the distance of a bicycle (a practical reminder!):

Physical Distancing Graphic

Riding a bike extends how far you can travel to buy groceries or pick up prescriptions without sharing a vehicle. Cycling opens up our neighbourhoods when many of us are feeling locked in.

Before you go out and after you return to your place of residence, it is recommended to wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 15 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available, and avoid touching your face with unwashed hands. Be cautious using any shared facilities as surfaces frequently touched with hands are more likely to be contaminated.

Other measures to prevent infection, include:

  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then immediately throw the tissue in the garbage and wash your hands
  • If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve or arm
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (e.g., bicycle handlebars, brake levers and gear shifters)

Exercise is still important for maintaining your physical and mental health. However, Toronto Public Health recommends that you get exercise without leaving your residence, if possible. If you must go outside for exercise, be sure to maintain physical distance.