The Canadian Cyclists of World War I, Reconnaissance and Resilience on Two Wheels

Remembering the Canadian Corps Cyclist Battalion

On Remembrance Day, November 11, we pause to honor all the men and women who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. This year, we’d like to shine a light on a unique and often overlooked unit: the Canadian Corps Cyclist Battalion, whose courage and dedication played a vital role in World War I.

Formation and Early Role

The Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF) initially formed individual divisional cyclist companies — the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Canadian Divisional Cyclist Companies. In May 1916, these units merged to create the Canadian Corps Cyclist Battalion, giving the Canadian Corps a dedicated mounted unit capable of reconnaissance, traffic control, trench guiding, and dispatch riding — often under dangerous conditions.

Training and Equipment

Cyclists trained rigorously in musketry, bombing, bayonet combat, and the operation of the Lewis machine gun. Their bicycles, primarily supplied by Canada Cycle & Motor Co. Ltd. (CCM), were equipped like horses, with bed rolls at the front and rifles slung to the side. Fully loaded, these bikes weighed over 40 kg, yet soldiers routinely covered 60+ km of rough terrain and deep mud in a single day, demonstrating extraordinary stamina and skill.

Bicycles offered a quiet, low-maintenance alternative to horses — allowing soldiers to move swiftly, gather intelligence, and stay mobile on the front lines. 

Combat Engagements

The battalion participated in key battles, including Ypres, Vimy Ridge, and Passchendaele. At the Battle of Amiens in August 1918, their reconnaissance and communications work proved critical to the success of the offensive. During the Hundred Days Offensive, they served as scouts, dispatch riders, intelligence gatherers, and even engaged in direct combat, showcasing both versatility and courage.

Casualties and Legacy

Of the 1,138 men who served, 261 were killed or wounded, a casualty rate of roughly 23%. Despite their vital contributions, the battalion was disbanded on November 15, 1920, without formal battle honours. Efforts are ongoing to have the battalion formally recognized by the Canadian Battle Honours Committee.

Modern Commemorations

The Canadian Intelligence Corps (C Int C) traces its lineage to the Cyclist Battalion. In November 2022, C Int C inaugurated a national tradition to honor the battalion’s contributions at the Battle of Amiens, marking the anniversary with ceremonies across Canada.

Below are pictures of some of the insignia for the Corps.  The first is the cap badge for the battalion and the second is the collar badge. Note that the collar badge is topped with a beaver. 

 

This Remembrance Day, we invite you to reflect on the courage, resilience, and ingenuity of these soldiers. Their dedication ensured freedom and security for future generations — a legacy that endures.

We sincerely hope you take the time this November 11 to remember all those who served and gave their lives for our country.

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