Freewheeling fun for everyone
On yer bike! Well it is National Bike Week from June 10-18, a chance to get on that saddle and pushing those pedals
‘BIKE Week is the UK’s best excuse for a party on a bike,” says Cycling UK’s Chief Executive, Paul Tuohy, “and that’s why our theme this year is ‘Fun & Freedom’.
“We want to help millions more people to rediscover – or find out for the first time – just how much fun you can have cycling, whether you’re out with friends or planning a family get together.”
Cycling, he adds, can help you keep fit, both mentally and physically, as well as just being fun!
Halfords is partnering Cycling UK this year for Bike Week and people can get a free bike check to make sure they stay safe wherever they are taking to two wheels.
And Cycling UK has put together lots of information to make sure you get the most out of one of the country’s favourite pastimes.
“Can you remember the first bike you had when you were a child? More importantly, can you remember that huge sense of fun you had riding it?” they ask. “So many of us have fond memories of long summer days, exploring the world with friends, away from the school timetable and excited by the freedom to head out to wherever you please.
“If you’re that little bit older these days, and you’ve had the chance to pass on that ‘first bike’ feeling to your own children, there’s no better excuse than Bike Week to get out and have some fun in the saddle together.
“If you are just about to, here are some tips…”
CYCLING TREASURE HUNT
IT requires a little work but gives the chance for the whole family to rediscover their local area and work together to reach the final destination. Time will fly by, particularly if you have a fiendish route-setter and clue-giver!
GO ON A FMILY PICNIC
WHAT better way to spend time together than to go on a family picnic? Pack a selection of tasty treats and drinks, cycle off to find a quiet, picturesque spot off the beaten track, spread out your blanket and enjoy the outdoors.
PUT ON A CYCLING SKILLS SESSION
PLAY simple games on a bike to boost confidence and skills. You could set out a series of cones to slalom around, which will improve balance, or see who can freewheel the furthest down a hill (without pedalling).
TIP: Pick a safe, traffic-free location such as a park, playing field or playground.
GO ON A WILDLIFE-SPOTTING RIDE
TAKE your family out into the local woods or nature site. You’ll be amazed how much wildlife you’ll see, from cows and horses to birds and crazy-looking insects.
VISIT the Bike Week website – www.bikeweek.org.uk – to find loads more advice and information - including your local event. If there’s not one near you, why not put on your own with your friends and family.