June 01, 2013 (Montreal, QC) – The evening of May 31 saw an estimated 17,000 cyclists joining for a leisurely 25-kilometre ride in east end Montreal. The annual event is part of the prelude to the 29th annual edition of the Tour de l’Île ride on Sunday, June 2 where up to 35,000 riders are expected. These events are both organized by Velo Quebec as part of its May 26-June 2 Montreal Bike Fest.

The Tour de Nuit began at 8:15 p.m. Friday near Olympic Park and all cyclists were required to have a bike equipped with reflectors and a working lighting system. Children 12 and younger were allowed to ride for free while adults paid between $20 and $29 for the ride. After a muggy day, the evening saw clear skies and comfortable temperatures in Montreal.

Street closures will accommodate Sunday’s Tour de l’Île ride, starting about 7 a.m., offering a few novelties this year; there are 25km and 50km leisurely rides on the menu as well as a 50-kilometre “express” option, for cyclists who want to ride at a faster pace of 28kmh. There is also an extended 100km “Découverte” ride around Montreal Island for more experienced cyclists, with about 70km of that on roads shared with motorists. Possible thunderstorms and temperatures of up to 27 C are forecast.

Pedal believes that it is still possible to register for Sunday’s Tour de l’Ile except for the 100km Découverte ride which is listed as “sold out” on the Velo Quebec website:

More on the Tour de de l’Île and Montreal Bike Festival here.
Montreal Gazette on Tour de Nuit here.