Why Ride in a Group? Fresh Air Staff on Cycling Culture in Kelowna

The Okanagan is one of the best places in Canada to ride a bike. From lakeside roads to vineyard climbs, it's a cyclist's playground. And while solo spins are great, there's something special about riding in a group.

Whether you're into gravel bikes, road rides, or just getting into the sport, joining a cycling group is one of the fastest ways to improve your skills and meet like-minded riders. We spoke with Martin and Troy from the Fresh Air team about their experiences with local groups like Volant, Athena, and others in Kelowna.

Staff Q&A: What It's Like to Ride in a Cycling Group

What group(s) have you ridden with in the Okanagan?

• Martin: "Fresh Air Volant and Athena. Casual group."
• Troy: "Volant, Hopsyclists, and a group called the Posse. It's made up of gentlemen aged 55 to 89. My best friend's dad runs it—I've known him since I was 2."

What made you join a cycling group?

• Martin: "It was suggested that there was no recreation group for guys… so I started one. (Volant)"
• Troy: "To expand my health and cycling skills. Group riding brings you to the next level on a road bike. You get comfortable riding close to others and are always challenged. It's also a great way to meet new people and discover new riding spots."

What's the vibe like in Volant?

• Martin: "Easy-going, no-drop ride. Good times."
• Troy: "Always a cheery, happy bunch. Very supportive—technical, physical, or mental. Great group of gentlemen, both veteran riders and rookies."

How has group riding helped you grow as a cyclist?

• Martin: "As a group leader, it forced me to rethink my ideas of a ride. I have a background in competitive cycling, so it made me slow down and put myself in others' shoes."
• Troy: "You develop bike skills like braking, shifting, drafting, pacing, and sprinting. Group riding also teaches you about fueling and hydration—everyone has different needs. Over time, your endurance and awareness improve."

Fresh Air transitions into a ski shop when the cycling season winds down. We carry alpine ski gear, ski equipment, snowboards, and accessories. You can count on us for 4 seasons' worth of sports gear like wetsuits, helmets, and kids jackets. 

Tips for someone joining their first group ride?

• Martin: "Learn about your bike and make sure it's in good shape. Test ride and see how you're feeling. Give yourself simple goals and join a group."
• Troy: "Come prepared—hydration, safety gear, lights, seat bag with tubes, CO2, levers. Start with a slower pace if you're unsure. Being nervous is totally fine. Group riding introduces new routes and friendships and improves cycling health and power."

Favourite local group ride or route?

• Martin: "We've got so many beautiful routes, but the group itself is the highlight—very diverse backgrounds, a great group of lads."
• Troy: "Lakeshore Road is one of the most scenic rides in the area. Less traffic, lots of rolling hills, and unreal lake views. East Kelowna also has windy roads, and if you're up for a challenge, the June Springs climb is one of my favourites."

If you're looking for bike helmets, bike repair, or just want to explore new routes with great people, we're here to help.

Why should someone try group riding?

• Martin: "Guys are generally not joiners. Go for it. It's an easy way to make friends—most guys don't have enough of a social network in their lives."
• Troy: "It will improve your skills, power, and confidence. You'll also find new routes and people to ride with. Totally worth it."

Want to Join Athena or Volant?

Fresh Air’s Athena (women’s) and Volant (men’s) biking programs are open to all skill levels and focus on building fitness, confidence, and community.

Athena rides leave Mondays at 5:30 p.m. from Fresh Air Pandosy (all levels) and Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. from Dilworth (hill climbs for intermediate/advanced). Riders are grouped by ability for a fun, no-drop experience.

Volant meets Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:00 p.m. from Fresh Air Pandosy for hill climbs and tempo/social rides. Road bikes only—no e-bikes or downhill bikes. The season starts on April 28th.

Your Local Bike (etc.) Shop

Fresh Air isn't just a bike shop in Kelowna—it's a hub for the outdoor community. We offer clubs and group rides like Athena (for women) and Volant (for men), plus expert service for everything from gravel bikes to e-bikes and Trek bikes.

Contact us or stop by one of the top-rated sporting goods stores in Kelowna to learn more about group rides, gear, and events happening in your community.

Fresh Air Kelowna is your go-to destination for expert advice, the best running shoes, and trusted gear from brands like Hoka, New Balance, and more. Visit us in-store at either of our locations to find your perfect stride. 

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