Wee Jaunt could be start of a big love of cycling

KIDS and bikes and parks – a match made in heaven.

In addition to their annual Classic Challenge and Big Belter cycles, Scotland’s biggest bike event, Pedal for Scotland, are holding several‘wee’ rides across the country, which are perfect for riders of every experience level.

The first Wee Jaunt will take place on May 7, starting at the Lagoon in Helix Park, and following a 7.5-mile circular loop, which will take an average of one to two hours to complete.

If you haven’t got tickets for the event there’s no reason you can’t experience the fun afterwards when Helix Park reopens.

Hopefully this will inspire you to sign up for the next Wee Jaunt in Edinburgh on September 10.

This fantastic, traffic free cycle starts in Linlithgow and joins the final 10 mile stage of the Classic Challenge and Big Belter events on the same day.

The Classic Challenge, a 45-mile Glasgow to Edinburgh ride is Pedal for Scotland’s most popular ride, attracting 6500 participants in 2016.

The Big Belter is a Sportive ride of 110 miles from Glasgow to Edinburgh

It uses the same start and finish points as the Classic Challenge ride, but takes a completely separate route through the Scottish Borders, meaning you get the buzz of Scotland’s biggest bike event on a quieter route designed for serious road cyclists.

Younger riders taking part in the Wee Jaunt will love the festival atmosphere

And they’ll also get the buzz of crossing the finish line at the Royal Highland Centre with thousands of other riders.

This distance is short enough for the smallest of legs to pedal but long enough for accompanying grown-ups to enjoy.

Family-friendly events like this remind parents that there’s nothing like fresh air, fun, and exercise to tire out youngsters.

And with the summer holidays on the horizon now is a good time to get kids fitted out for fun on their bikes

Organised cycle events have never been more popular in Scotland. These well planned mass participation routes can be a stepping stone to more activity.

Not only are they great fun, but the feel-good factor from these shared endeavors is addictive and will have you signing up for more.

For more cycling related activities in your area contact Recyke a Bike, Alloa Road, Stirling FK9 5LN, 01786 447559 or Dawson Bike Club in Falkirk. http://dawsonbikeclub. weebly.com www.recyke-a-bike.co.uk www.stirlingcyclehub.org