With gas prices as high as they are, many Canadians are looking into alternate modes of transportation.

In Okotoks, it looks like residents have been turning to cycling.

Manager at Classic Cycling, Brennan Krett, says the store has seen a bump in demand tied to gas prices.

"The e-bikes have been picking up pretty quick here for commuting and whatnot, we've sold through a fair bit already.... right when that big jump in prices came around. It probably doubled the demand."

Demand for bicycles also rose over the last two years due to the pandemic.

Local vendors are used to this by now and as such, Krett has some advice for those considering getting a bike of their own.

"The only thing is, the supply is pretty short right now. Once we're sold out with what's in stock here we're kind of done for the season. There's really not any reorders again this year."

They face a similar situation last year when demand was high but supply was hampered by shipping costs, though it's not nearly as bad this time around.

The uptick in demand didn't come as a surprise to Krett, given Okotoks' size and pathway system, which makes it a very cycling-friendly town.

"I know a lot of people are buying grocery baskets and stuff so they're using their bikes to go and get groceries. Everything is in a relatively close distance so it's not a crazy ride to go on, plus the e-bike helps to climb hills and whatnot."

For locals who are making the switch, it's a good idea to brush up on the rules for cyclists.

For instance, the Traffic Safety Act requires riders under the age of 18 to wear a helmet.

While some municipalities have bylaws requiring bikes to be fitted with bells, municipal enforcement manager Peter Stapley says a bell isn't necessarily required, but signalling when you pass someone is.

"If you are riding your bike on the pathways in the Town of Okotoks and you are going to overtake or pass somebody, you have to signal your intent, and that is signalled audibly either with a bell or by advising them with your own voice."

Cyclists should also be aware of the rules of the road, just like any other road vehicle.

"A cyclist still has to stop at all the stop signs, they have to yield to pedestrians. In addition to all that, they have to ride on the right side of the road, furthest to the right as possible, so that other traffic is able to go past them if need be. We always want to stress that cyclists, people in vehicles, everyone wants to be safe out there, so make sure to share the road, and if you are passing cyclists, do it slowly."

The Town of Okotoks has a page dedicated to cycling safety on its website.