BIKE READY – Bike Try Out

Outcomes

• Experience the different bike types to establish the most suitable for their journeys.

• Identify which size is the most appropriate and comfortable.

• Enjoy the added whoomph and benefits an e-bike can offer!

Information

Where possible bikes should come from bike shops, hire fleets or community bike libraries and will include a mix of sizes and types such as folding, hybrids, road bikes, mountain bikes, e-bikes and where possible adapted bikes.

It is also recommended to have ‘experts’ from the shop or fleet hire company on hand to discuss peoples needs and advise on the most appropriate bikes.

It is advisable to clearly mark out/ direct people to the area where they can cycle, to keep pedestrians and cyclists separate and safe. Where possible make a one directional course for people to follow – use cones to make gates, slaloms

Helpful links and boxes to encourage people to experience and practice, steering, braking and stopping the bikes.

Materials needed

• Suitable outdoor space, allowing participants to come along, see, hold and ride a selection of bikes.

• A traffic free space large enough for people to cycle around – park, large car park or school playground for example.

• A range of bikes including where possible e-bikes –look for local hire fleets from community e-bike/bike loan schemes, invite local bike shops & hire shops.

• Helmets for participants to borrow.

• Bike rack or shelter for bikes between use.

Costings

• Venue hire costs £10–£30/hour.

• Fleet hire – price dependant on nature of organisation providing bikes and travel distance.

• Negotiate on costs and highlight the benefit to the organisation of potential future sales or loans.

• Staff hire.

The session

2–4 hours Outdoors Depends on event capacity

Contact local bike shops, bike libraries and other local bike hire organisations for further information. Alternatively contact your local Cycling UK bothy or Rural Connections Development Officer for information.

Cycling UK – Scottish Bothies

Cycling UK – Rural Connections