FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

We get many of the same questions regularly but there are no stupid questions! If you can't find answers here, don't hesitate to send us a message and we will help!

What course should I take?

We have developed a quiz to guide you to the correct course for your age and skill level. You can take it here.

Do you do private (1 on 1) courses?

For First Time courses, generally no. Our instructors are very experienced cyclists and it can be frustrating when you see the ease with which they can ride. There's no reason to be embarrassed! Being part of a group will give you the opportunity to conquer your embarrassment and learn from the struggles and successes of other participants as well as benefit from the encouragement from others as well.

Beginner courses are often done 1 on 1.

Other courses generally have a minimum number of participants in order to be cost effective: SCC is a business and must have greater revenues than expenses or we will cease to exist.

Why shouldn't I book 2 First Time courses?

In short, because most people are successful in a First Time course! Though it varies year to year, overall 76% of adults and 68% of kids are able to ride a bike after a single course. If you/your child is not successful within the course time, you will leave knowing how to continue practicing on your own time. You will also receive a coupon code to save 25% off a repeat First Time course within the same season if you really want to come back for another try.

Further, if you register for 2 courses and are successful in the first one, then you will be subject to our usual cancellation policies, which means you will not receive a full refund for the cancellation of the second course. Further, you will have held a spot so someone else was unable to attend, denying them an opportunity to try.

I don't have a bike: can you help me?

You must provide your own, properly fitting bike for courses. SCC doesn't rent bikes, but we can direct you to bike rental shops or guide you to buy a bike that suits how you want to bike. Send us an email and we'll point you in the right direction.

What about training wheels?

The goal of a First Time course is to get participants riding without training wheels (or stabilizers): if your child's bike has them and you're able, please remove them before attending this course.

Adaptive bikes are welcome in all other courses, but only if the participant has a legitimate need: training wheels are not adaptive equipment.

When do courses start?

The typical season runs from May through the end of August. If the weather cooperates, we may start early and some courses may be offered in September. See the Schedule for courses currently in the calendar.

I have a driver's license: why should I take a course to learn how to bike on the road?

Put simply, because riding a bike makes you vulnerable and takes a lot more physical effort than driving an auto. This means that not knowing the rules or how they apply to cyclists, making mistakes or poor choices - often because it's easier - puts you in a lot more danger than when you're in an auto.

We want you to be safe, and not be afraid to ride your bike around the city: taking a course will give you the knowledge, skills and confidence to do so.

Do you participate in Fair Entry?

Unfortunately, we are not part of the Fair Entry program. We can arrange a payment plan to help you get into a course and always recommend the highest value course we offer: Intermediate.