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Bike Week 2014 will get Britain back in the saddle

Free bike maintenance to be offered across the country

New research¹ has been released in advance of Bike Week that shows 71% of adults in the UK are keen to get out on their bikes this summer The main barrier for entry though, is the fact that their bikes are not in top notch condition.

41% admitted that their bikes would need fixing before they ride them with 23% of people not using their bikes as they don’t know how to repair them.

With Bike Week 2014 just around the corner (14-22 June), efforts are being made to address this situation in order to revive unused bikes which have been neglected during the winter months. The bike experts will also be on hand to offer maintenance tips and advice. Expert led rides will also be on offer to help encourage those back on the road who at present might be too nervous or scared.

Phillip Darnton, Executive Director of the Bicycle Association says:

“We know that 77% of people in the UK own a bike, but only 14% use them regularly, and a major barrier to people getting back on two wheels is often something as simple to fix as a dodgy brake or puncture. We want anyone with a bike, who wants to get it roadworthy, to check out www.bikeweek.org.uk and find out details of their nearest event.”.

Bike Week 2014 launches at the Dutch Embassy on Wednesday 11 June with The Transport Minister Robert Goodwill MP and the Dutch Ambassador and a 3 mile cycle ride to the Houses of Parliament where representatives from the three main parties will outline their visions for cycling.

Bike Week is the UK’s biggest mass participation cycling event, taking place between 14 – 22 June 2014 across the country. Visit www.bikeweek.org.uk to find an event nearby.

Below is a snapshot of Bike Week events around the country, for full listings visit: www.bikeweek.org.uk