Cyclists suit up for formal ride to promote Bike Week in Winnipeg

Dozens of Winnipeg cyclists kicked up their heels — literally — as they biked Tuesday morning from The Forks to city hall in their suits and blazers, their Oxfords and pumps.

It was the 2nd annual Suit and Heels on Wheels ride ahead of Bike Week, which launches on Saturday. From June 18-24, cyclists are invited to take part in several events around the city.

"Riding a bike is one of the best things you can do for yourself and our earth. We want everyone to come out and enjoy the fun of riding a bike," said Dave Elmore, Bike Week Winnipeg's project manager.

A number of programs and events will take place during the week — Community Bike Shop Day, bike yoga, the Moveable Feast, an outdoor spin class — concluding on Friday with Bike to Work Day.

More than 60 city-wide pit stops will be available Friday to tweak and tune bicycles.

New events this year include family rides and four bike-through breakfast locations on June 20 from 6:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.

"Bike Week events provide a great way for Winnipeggers to get active outdoors to try out our city's various trails and explore our city," said Mayor Brian Bowman, who also took part in Tuesday's Suit and Heels on Wheels ride.

The festivities wrap up with a barbecue party on Friday, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., on the front lawn of the University of Winnipeg.

Everything about the week can be found on the Bike Week Winnipeg website.