Cycling Toronto (Narrated) - Avenue Road to the Lake on July 4 [4K]

[@BAIRESWALKER]

Wow, Amazing! Awesome video! Thanks for sharing! 😊

[@JohnnyStrides]

👍

[@johngowen453]

Thank you! I was born and raised and worked in TO for 65 of my 72 years. The bike rides and the walks stir many fine memories.

[@JohnnyStrides]

You're extremely welcome and that sounds like 65 years well spent! 👍

[@kungfu2565]

Greetings from Germany. In this crazy times with a crazy virus its like a vacation ride. Im sitting in front my tv or pc and watch your ride through my favorite city. i was 4 time there. Some great information's and parts of toronto i would never seen. so be careful and next time i visit you're beautiful city o take a bicycle ride.

[@JohnnyStrides]

Greetings and stay safe in Germany! I'm glad you enjoy Toronto, I hope to visit your country some day.

[@whyimsmarterthanyou]

Great ride and video, man. TO's waterfront is a lovely reprieve from the rest of the city. Recessed away from the hustle, bustle, and noice of the city's streets, it's like an oasis. So many happy Saturday afts spent down there waiting for the dome's gates to open. It never seemed to matter how humid the day or how damp I was, finding a shaded seat by the kayak rentals was a great way to relax after a long hike. Gawd, I miss that routine this summer.

[@JohnnyStrides]

I agree, no matter how busy Queens Quay there's so many parks and nice quiet spots to be found near the water it's certainly one of the best places to be in the city when the weather is nice!

[@starshine9147]

great video thank-you ...wondering if you could show the distillery district in a future video wondering how the shops and restaurants are running during this pandemic

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks, I haven't passed through there in a few months. I'll see if I can go back!

[@mmkenny1694]

you are correct there is a Lawrence ave bus to pearson airport. having taken it many times from pearson to the nearby hotels and Lawrence west subway i can say its not quick unless you are going towards the sheppard avenue subway line.

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks for confirming! I wonder what the time difference is vs. heading down to Line 2 and then taking the shuttle from Kipling? It probably depends on traffic.

[@tedchiba5442]

You did it again Johnny. Another great narrative cycle ride. Great description of the area along Avenue Rd. The person in the black Audi must of been on drugs, to pull something like that. I would of given the finger and pulled up beside and given them a piece of my mind. One of my buddies from Northern Secondary after grade 13 had a summer job as a draftsman for the summer at Havergal College, named after Frances Ridley Havergal a Humanitarian in 1894. Johnny be careful traveling around Toronto. Have a good one!

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks Ted! I appreciate the kind words and adding some background on Havergal. Cheers!

[@lornacarrington8081]

Love dat ride seeing all does lovely buildings wow like I am there and the lake nice (thanks 👊🏽👊🏽)

[@diannecasimir2287]

Good day, are you from the caribbean?😃😄💯.

[@lornacarrington8081]

@@diannecasimir2287 Yes I am from Barbado💯💯

[@diannecasimir2287]

@@lornacarrington8081Ok honey, I am from Dominica. I read it in the way you speak.

[@lornacarrington8081]

@@diannecasimir2287 ok dats nice

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks!!! I'll do some more rides like this 👍

[@gailsheenanaidoo9021]

Hi Johnny. I've watched a lot of your videos and they're so informative thank you for that. Although you're an excellent cyclist, it's very scary out there . Stay safe. I hope the city of Toronto appreciates you for promoting tourism as well as the food outlets for their businesses. PS: I also subscribed today to your channel. An oversight to be sure.

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thank you and welcome to the channel! 👍

[@gailsheenanaidoo9021]

@@JohnnyStrides Thank you.

[@jpmengniu398]

I watch over you on these videos. No worry you are a gentleman.

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thank you👍

[@ethan-youtubetips5083]

Here to support. Will definitely come back for the next video. When is it coming out? Thumbs up 👍

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks Ethan! There shall be one tomorrow (walking) and another Wednesday (cycling, although I haven't checked if the footage is usable or not).

[@jamessmith732]

Nice journey with nice end with seagulls

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks James!

[@alvaroboschet1231]

Very nice ride Johnny as usual great quality only those drivers or idiots just be careful take care thanks.

[@JohnnyStrides]

Some of them certainly are! Thanks

[@rensol6806]

I hope you're doing well, Johnny. That driver was insane. I would spew profanities if I were in your place. 😮😱 Anyway, very informative video and it's great that you get to relax (and have your little snack 😁) at the end of it. 🥂🌯🥐 The waterfront looks serene and is a great place to hang out. 😊🌊🌞

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thank you Ren Sol (is that your name?). I always appreciate your comments!

[@rensol6806]

@@JohnnyStrides Welcome. 😎 That's my online name. 😁

[@abdobouchareb6791]

Nice video, thanks for the beautiful ride although it was a bit scary to be on busy highway!

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks! It's just a normal road here lol

[@canonto2008]

That’s a long ride! Avenue Road is definitely not a cyclist friendly road. You could bike through Forest Hill and Spadina Road - it is quieter and safer

[@DragonPupEclipse]

Ya especially at night.

[@JohnnyStrides]

100%. Even Yonge Street and Mount Pleasant are better N-S routes. I sometimes take Oriole Parkway down to St Clair but almost never Avenue like that. I just went that way to make the video lol

[@canonto2008]

It is called University Avenue because the land used be owned by U of T many years ago. When Ontario legislation building was burnt down, the government wanted to build a bigger one (Queen’s Park) U of T gave them the land. That a why Queen’s Park seem to sit in the middle of U of T.

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks, I knew that somehow but it's amazing the things that I can't think of when I'm riding. It also doesn't help that I do zero homework before these lol

[@sharinglungs3226]

You got lucky that driver made an illegal lane change. They definitely were unaware of you considering how slow they made that right turn. Good to see you were well aware of the danger. I’m sure when you cussed them off they probably don’t know what for.

[@JohnnyStrides]

Yeah, I don't know why people can't just stay in their line throughout a turn, it's not rocket science and as you say, it's also the law. I totally anticipated this and once there was plenty of room to pass to the right I didn't bother slamming on the brakes but still... that driver... wow.

[@roselidia3725]

Thank you for your videos I really enjoy them. Speaking of the PATH can you do a video there too please? If it's not too much to ask

[@JohnnyStrides]

I will go back once there's less people working from home and business picks up down there. I did a walk there about 2 months ago.

[@roselidia3725]

@@JohnnyStrides Oh thanks Sorry i didn't see the video. I'm going to watch it now

[@navinchakra7717]

Great ride, can you do museum walk

[@JohnnyStrides]

Through the ROM? I'm not sure if that's permitted but I can look into it.

[@nyb2.027]

I’ll be honest... I felt quite anxious watching this ride, but that’s probably because I’m a Dutchman. Nice video though, the city looks pretty neat, even if it doesn’t seem very bike-friendly!

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thank you! I envy how cycling centric so many European cities are. We're very slowly coming around to being more of a cycling culture. Also this isn't a route I'd normally have taken, I only road this way to make the video, there's much nicer and safer routes to the lake :)

[@nyb2.027]

Johnny Strides I’ve watched some more of your video’s in the meantime, I have to say that most of the routes in them seemed more bike-friendly (more bicycle paths etc.)! In any case I’m glad that North American cities are finally starting to adopt some cycling-centric policies, it’ll really help develop bicycle culture! The Netherlands hasn’t always had this urban cycling-culture, it wasn’t until the 1960’s and the oil crisis of 1973 when seperate bicycling paths started to become an everyday thing; the car had dominated the roads of bigger cities especially during the rebuild period after the war (1950-1960’s), much like many North American cities nowadays.

[@denisegwilliams8614]

What a ride Johnny that black car make you lose your cool but any one would of curse that person just came out in the road then took they dead time like its them alone on the road 😡 that's why I hate driving but you handle it pretty well my heart was in my hand but I know you are a good rider 👍 oh my that lake front is so beautiful 🥰 thanks for sharing catch you on your next wonderful vlog be safe now🤗💞🤗🥰🥰

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks again Denise, I always look forward to your comments :)

[@diannecasimir2287]

JS, good day, it's a fast one but good as always.

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks 👍

[@noopynnus]

Hey nice interesting video! Quick question for ya, how did you mount the DJI Osmo Action?

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks Sunny! I use a chest mount that I offset a little bit so the camera would be more centered over the handle bars (as chest mounts have the lens sit slightly to the side, you'll notice on my cycling vids with that mount the handlebars aren't perfectly centered). I have a GoPro too but the view is a bit too wide and picks up too much of my arms IMO.

[@LaHermitess]

If you deem it worthy, you might note that the Georgian building on the north-west corner of University Ave. @ Queen St. is Campbell House. It is kind of interesting in that it is not only an heritage house and museum (originally built and occupied by an Ontario Chief Justice as of 1822) but normally offers tours by costumed guides and is kept in the style of it's original era. It was not originally built on this site, but was moved in a slow & fascinating process (which I was lucky enough to witness) in 1972 from its original location on Adelaide Street, where a George Brown College building is now. The owner of the house at that time (Hallmark Cards) wanted to demolish it for a parking lot but a lawyer's association stepped in to pay for the move and restoration. The building is now owned by the City of Toronto.

[@JohnnyStrides]

I most certainly deem it worthy! I couldn't think of the Campbell House's name when I went by so I was silent on that... I guess there's no fooling a Torontonian though! It's absolutely beautiful after sun-down when they have the lights on it too. Great history and thanks for sharing!

[@christyo5505]

Fun ride. Enjoyed it as always..... And if you gave that person driving that black car the middle finger, he or she totally deserved it.... That was careless driving in action..... But thanks for the fun rides and I love the last water scene..

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks Christy! Yes, I absolutely gave them the finger and I made sure they saw me haha... I'm not sure why they pulled out then slowed down, then turned into the centre lane. They get a 0 out of 10 for doing just about everything wrong.

[@pamrosina]

Side note, if you need to get a drink of water please do so. You are talking and staying hydrated is very important especially at these high temperatures. 💖

[@JohnnyStrides]

I often do at red lights :)

[@xxgg]

Sorry, what shops are illegal? If I remember correctly,, those lines along avenue road was to create gap from vehicle lane to sidewalk as side walks there are small/narrow. But because of that vehicle lanes are greatly reduced and more than 50% drivers fail to stay in their lane anytime road is curved. What path do you take to go back up north? So much fun to ride south as mostly flat or descending but going back home is... )@#*($)(@

[@JohnnyStrides]

I was referring to the Cannabis shops that aren't licensed by the province who operate in that legal grey zone. I didn't know that was why those gaps were there, it makes sense, thanks for sharing. As for going back home, I usually tough it out and tackle the hill on Avenue Road if I'm closer to that side or take Yonge to St Clair (smaller, much easier hill but more of a steady climb overall). I think that's where having a single speed really pays off, large hills don't phase me much anymore although I'm still not looking forward to a ride I'm planning that will go up the big ass one on Yonge through Hogg's Hollow.

[@shon0369]

Give em shit Johnny and get back into character , love it . Back in the day I use to literally bark at the wankers .. Another nice vid , thanks again.

[@JohnnyStrides]

You're welcome! Sometimes it's just impossible to bite your lip lol

[@shon0369]

@@JohnnyStrides Sometimes you've got to be careful , I had a few words with someone that cut me off on my bike last year . Almost got physical , I was very rattled .

[@liamliam7191]

Glad you’re getting comfortable with your narrated walks and rides but I’m always amazed on your knowledge of the city. Do you do research beforehand?

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks! As for research, not really. I might google something on my way to doing one of these (if it's walking) or quickly look up a few things before I head out on the bike (I remembered I was going by some private schools and was curious about their tuition for some reason so I looked that up) but otherwise I just kinda play it by ear. If I miss things I look forward to seeing others point it out in the comments.

[@MaxKing10]

People above/near Steeles Ave and Bathurst St always ride their bikes on the sidewalk. Almost never on the road. On Centre and Bathurst they built a bike lane and the bike lane kinda just ends off after Highway 7 and it looks like they are trying to make it so you ride on the road. Anyways a lot of people ride their bikes on the sidewalk here and while I don't mind it people should start riding on the road

[@JohnnyStrides]

They need to do a better job of building out the biking infrastructure, there's a lot of areas where its confusing. I agree with the sentiments, adults should be riding on the roads and if they don't feel safe doing so then find a quieter side street! Cheers !

[@noemilopez9834]

Pure exercise. 👍

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks~

[@schnuurtchke]

Do a bike ride on Islington avenue

[@JohnnyStrides]

One day I'll get there!

[@canman5060]

Once upon a time Highway 401 is a two lane 'low' way !

[@Christina24life]

I thought about making a channel like this. Would be fun and great exercise as well.

[@JohnnyStrides]

Go for it! Are you in Edmonton?

[@Christina24life]

Johnny Strides I used to be, I’m in Hamilton now.

[@JohnnyStrides]

It would be neat to see some vids from Hamilton!

[@canadianperson4830]

You are a great bicyclist. You follow the rules well. I ebiked for a couple of years through the city. Bicyclists can be very ignorant. Thank you for allowing us to enjoy the ride with you.

[@pamrosina]

Great ride

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thank you!

[@shyamm98]

Made me nervous just watching on you Avenue!

[@JohnnyStrides]

That's one of the reasons I chose that route :)

[@good_to_be_gold8]

Wow, that was an idiot driver. OMG you could've got badly hurt.

[@JohnnyStrides]

Yup, welcome to Toronto streets...

[@erikt454]

I hate riding through that Union Station tunnel, cars are always charging up my ass in there.

[@JohnnyStrides]

Yeah, it's a good practice to flip your rear light on and take the middle of the lane and just get through it safe. The pavement is pretty bad under all of the overpasses that connect Front to the the southcore.

[@jcsdesign]

Thanks for taking us a long! I'm a cyclist in Toronto and have never come across anyone on KZbin that shares fascinating facts about our City. Keep it it! What kind of bike are you riding and are you using an external mic for audio? Btw, you're brave to be riding on Avenue Rd. like that. I would be afraid of dangerous drivers taking me out. I don't blame cyclist for using the sidewalk for safety.

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks Jeff! I'm riding a KHS Urban Soul (single speed) I bought about 6 years ago. As for the mic, I've been playing around with various setups but heavy winds seems to be the one thing they cannot overcome. But I finally found a mic that can handle it so on my latest ride (which should be uploaded for Saturday). It sounds a lot more crisp than the camera's internal mic (which is what you hear on this one). Since the camera is right in front of me the built-in mic does a decent job but I've been wanting something better. As for these cycling videos, check out CJ Hoyle's channel, he also does some neat narrated rides through Toronto that are more informative and I just discovered he did this same route a few months before I did! Thanks for watching!

[@thetsoehtike]

looks like fun...i wish i had the guts to ride this. I don't trust the cars. lol

[@JohnnyStrides]

You get used to them but not for a second can you let your guard down!

[@2Lord_Lucifer8]

My sister also lives in Toronto, I hope I can come too.

[@JohnnyStrides]

👍

[@jordanlebow9105]

Looks like a Toronto driver finally broke you!

[@JohnnyStrides]

Ha, that was just the first time on camera ;)

[@johnnyrod11]

Yes Strides. Holy Shit that was a close call with that idiot driver turning out and slowing down in front of you.

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thank you sir and indeed it was. I had started to brake with enough time to come to a stop but when it looked like he'd make it through I let up, then the idiot just stopped...

[@alejandrokirkispapa1986]

Please bike down the beltline and narrorate it Keep up the great work

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks Benjamin, that's something I'll look into for sure!

[@sharinglungs3226]

As much as you call people idiots for riding on the sidewalk it’s just far safer than on the roads. Especially if you don’t ride fast and the sidewalk is fairly empty.

[@JohnnyStrides]

I have to disagree.. in the city of Toronto at least. It's against the law for people over 14 to ride their bikes on the sidewalk and they have absolutely no businesses being there. It's dangerous and extremely inconsiderate to pedestrians, especially those such as the elderly, parents with children etc who should not be dealing with having to dodge bikes. This is akin to a motorycle riding in the bicycle lane...

[@raullazo3228]

24:04 come on!! WTF!!

[@JohnnyStrides]

haha I don't even have to click the link to know where that goes...

[@sharinglungs3226]

Should have scrolled through the comments to find where. He mentioned it on his Dupont bike ride and came here to see the incident. I had to fast scroll to find it. It’s typical where drivers only look for other vehicles.

[@MinhPhan-dw4vz]

Great !!!!!

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thank you!!! 👍

[@BGRANT777X]

Why the fuck is it always an Audi? Every time something like this happens to me its an Audi driver and its not like I'm only remembering the Audis and forgetting all the Hondas and Fords that almost kill me... They also ruined a fun downhill bit for you.

[@JohnnyStrides]

lol if it's not an Audi there's a 90% chance it's German.

[@sagargoswami4859]

nice.

[@JohnnyStrides]

Thanks! 👍

[@afsanarahmanshipra1802]

My relatives lives in Toronto, feel like to visit, In shaa Allah.

[@JohnnyStrides]

Great 👍

[@samataromar4643]

Loved it. But I wanna see the bad area of Toronto... the hoods, the poorest, the immigrant areas...

[@JohnnyStrides]

I've been around the east side of downtown a lot and have even biked through Jane and Finch (which isn't that bad). I'm not sure what bad areas there are...

[@weetikissa]

It's Canada, not America.

[@mohamedelsaid6183]

🖒🖒

[@JohnnyStrides]

👍

[@klarissaclairiton9010]

Boring.

[@rensol6806]

The little bot is at it again. 😂😂😂

[@JohnnyStrides]

👍👍👍