Thousands to get on their bike for city ride
THOUSANDS of cyclists are expected to take over Manchester city centre for a huge organised ride on Sunday – and they won’t have to battle traffic.
The free HSBC City Ride will see cyclists of all ages and abilities enjoy a safe ride through the streets on a specially-marshalled, traffic-free course. Starting at Albert Square, riders will travel 11km through the heart of the city, along Deansgate and Chester Road heading out towards Old Trafford.
The event – formerly known as Manchester Sky Ride – will also take in MediaCityUK before looping back into the city centre and finishing back at the start line.
Paralympic champion Sophie Thornhill, who grew up in Manchester and lives and trains in the city, said: “Everyone knows how much of a sporting city Manchester is, and I’m sure that thousands of people will take the opportunity to join in the fun at the HSBC UK City Ride.”
A number of road closures will be in place, including major routes such as Deansgate, Chester Road, Bridgewater Way, Wharfside Way and Trafford Wharf Road.
The event begins at 11am, but roads will be closed from 5am until around 6pm. The event, one of 14 similar free events, has been organised by British Cycling, based at the Manchester Velodrome – the training base for the country’s Olympic and Paralympic stars, dubbed the ‘medal factory’ due to their success at recent games.
This year it is also being supported by Mobike, the firm behind Manchester’s new bike-sharing scheme. Bosses will be waving charges to help encourage more people to get out and take part in the event.
Mobike UK general manager Steve Pyer said: “We’re looking forward to building on the enthusiasm shown by the people of Manchester for the scheme by offering Mobikers an opportunity to get together for a day of free cycling.”
A virtual reality cycling experience will also be available to try, as well as a street velodrome and an off-road BMX-style course.
The Sir Chris Hoy Challenge will also give riders a chance to challenge the legend’s Olympic goldmedal winning sprint time.
Visit letsride.co.uk or enter on the day.