Britain is in the midst of Bike Week, a celebration of all things cycle related. Running from the 15th to the 23rd June 2013, organised by the CTC, the cycling charity it aims to encourage ‘everyday cycling for everyone’.
Bike Week has run annually since 1923, with this year seeing more events than ever happening up and down the country. From social rides and bike breakfasts to festivals, talks and film screenings, there’s something for everyone.
‘Get Britain Cycling’ is the theme this year, so whether you are young, old, a beginner, returner, or expert, and whether you cycle for business or pleasure, what better time to get back on your bike than now?
What’s On?
Barclays bike clinics – If you are London based, and your bike needs some TLC, then take advantage of this free service. Trained mechanics will give your steed a safety check, ensuring your it’s good to go for the weekend. Three new locations have been added at Islington, Hackney and Westminster in addition to the 5 already established.
Dr Bike Sessions – Trained mechanics will run free bike health checks at various locations throughout the UK. From adjusting gears and replacing brake blocks to ensuring your tyres are fully inflated, these are well worth looking out for.
The Big Breeze Ride – Breeze is one of the biggest ever initiatives to boost women’s cycling. Friendly Breeze Champions will be organising fun, easy social rides so there has never been a better time to get on your bike.
Want to know what’s on near you?
We’ve picked out a selection of events that are coming up around the country to help you choose.
Northern Ireland
What: Family MTB skills training
When: 19th June, 7pm to 8.30pm
Where: Barnett Demesne Mountain Bike Trails and Jump Park, Belfast
What: MTB Skills training with Far and Wild
When: 19th June, 6pm to 10pm
Where: Davagh Forest, nr Cookstown
Manchester
What: Bike auction at Bespoke cycle shop, which sells refurbished bikes and is not-for-profit.
When: 22nd June, 10am to 1pm
Where: Bespoke, Harper Road, Manchester
Leeds
What: Confidence building bike ride for women over 50
When: 19th June, 12.30pm to 1.45pm
Where: Crossgates Manston Park, Leeds
Nottingham
What: Cycle Live – cycle fair with events, races and rides
When: 21st to the 23rd June, 1pm to 6pm
Where: Victoria Embankment, Nottingham
Brighton
What: Bike’n’Fun family ride in the South Downs
When: 23rd June, 10.30am to 1.00pm
Where: From Hassocks Station, West Sussex
Norwich
What: Dr Bike cycle maintenance
When: 22nd June, 11.00am to 2.00pm
Where: George White Junior School, Norwich
Cardiff
What: Free adult cycle skills training
When: 22nd June, 9am to 3pm
Where: Cardiff University Main Building, Cardiff
What: Bike Building with Rob Penn (TV presenter, cyclist and author) Bike building competition, maintenance advice and Q&A
When: 24th June, 6pm to 8pm
Where: The Crofts Pub, Cardiff
London
What: Bikeminded Film Festival; ‘Janapar’
When: Thursday 20th June, 7pm to 9.30pm
Where: Notting Hill Coronet Cinema, Notting Hill, London
What: Big Breeze Ride Richmond Park – Women only social ride
When: 22nd June, 11am to 12.30pm
Where: Richmond Park, London
What: Forty Plus Cycling Club – Sights of London Ride. Relaxed social 25 mile ride
When: 21st July, 10am to 4pm
Where: Victoria Park, Bethnal Green, London
There are even more events, activities and rides online! Visit the Bike Week event planner to find out what’s coming up near you.