Bike Week returns for its 100th anniversary in 2023!
Bike Week 100 is all about encouraging cycling to and from the workplace and supporting staff to ride during the week. Organised by Cycling UK the annual event aims to promote the power of active travel for business. You can find out more about the event and how to join in here. However, cycling doesn’t have to only be for the commute though. Leisurely weekend rides with the family are also a great opportunity to explore the local area and enjoy some sunshine!
As part of Bike Week, Halfords will be located in the NGP Community Centre car park from 10am – 4pm on Saturday 10th June 2023 to provide free basic cycle checks and advice on general maintenance plus e-bike trials. If you have your own bicycle helmet, please do bring that along for the e-bike trials.
Cycle check spaces are limited, reserve yours online for free, by clicking here.
In 2021, the average person in England made only 2% of their trips by cycling. But what benefits are these 2% of people receiving?
Physical and mental health benefits
Riding a bike is a healthy, fun and low-impact form of exercise that can easily be incorporated into your daily routine, whether this be cycling to work or to the local shops. By cycling regularly your heart, blood vessels and lungs all get a good workout which in turn will increase your cardiovascular fitness. Cycling regularly can also decrease stress levels and reduce anxiety and depression.
Save money
Compared to the cost of car travel, cycling is significantly less expensive. You don’t even need to purchase a top of the range bike with many bicycles available second-hand. Research shows that cycling to work saves commuters nearly £1,400 per year when compared to driving. Think of all the wonderful things you could spend that £1,400 on instead! Find out how much money you could save by cycling on the Cycling UK website.
Good for the economy
Studies show that cycling is better for the local and national economy when compared to motorists. Those travelling by bike are more likely to stop and shop which provides great benefits to local retailers.
Reduce your carbon footprint
An obvious benefit to a cycle commute, no carbon emissions! Cycling also reduces noise pollution too, creating a much healthier environment. Cycling has a carbon footprint of about 21g of CO2 per kilometre. That’s a tenth less than the emissions from driving!
Explore your local area
If you’re travelling by public transport, it’s hard to stop and get off to explore. The same when travelling by car, routine takes over and you’re likely to just go between A and B. By cycling you have more opportunity to explore different routes.
Save time
Travelling into a heavily congested area? More often than not, cycling would be a quicker option in comparison to the car. Plan a route online for free through the CycleStreets website: cyclestreets.net