We're seeing more and more "fixies" - bicycles with a drive train fixed to the rear wheel and always engaged. This system allows the bike to be pedalled backward, for example. These bikes can be stopped by pedalling backward, but they cannot stop quickly. They slow down gradually, unlike children's bikes, which have brakes activated by pedalling backward.

Is this kind of bike legal?

Yes, as long as it has another braking system, in compliance with paragraph 247 of the Highway Safety Code, which stipulates that bicycles must be equipped with at least one brake system that acts on the rear wheel.

Riding a fixed-gear bicycle that does not have rear-wheel brakes activated by levers on the handlebars or directly by the pedals is an infraction that leads to a $37 fine.

Alternate information

Postes de quartier map

» Identify your PDQ «