Bicester residents are being encouraged to straddle the saddle and take part in one of two organised cycle rides to promote an improved bike loan initiative in the town.
Cherwell District Council’s Eco-Bicester team has joined Oxfordshire County Council and sustainability charity Bicester Green to organise a five kilometre cycle ride in June and a ten kilometre route in July.
The events have been organised as part of the Bicester Bike Loan venture which offers residents the chance to hire bicycles for commuting or pleasure purposes.
Cllr Nigel Morris, lead member for clean and green, said: “The Bicester Bike Loan initiative has been in operation for a couple of years, having previously been run by Oxfordshire County Council. However just recently Bicester Green has taken over the running of the project as their presence in the town gives them greater access to our residents and in return, greater flexibility in meeting customers’ needs.
“As such, we have organised these two bike rides to not only promote the improved service but to give people the chance to come along, take part in an organised event and give them the confidence and inspiration to do more bike riding in the future.”
Residents are able to hire various types of bikes including Raleigh and ‘folding’ Bromptons, as well as accessories including trailers and children’s seats. They can be hired for as little as £5 for a weekend, £10 for a week or £15 for a month. Subscriptions are also available for those who would like to arrange long-term hire.
The first bike ride will be a five kilometre route around Bicester on Tuesday, 3 June meeting at Bicester Green, Station Approach, Bicester at 6:30pm For those looking for a bigger challenge, a ten kilometre ride will be held on Tuesday, 15 July also at Bicester Green at 6:30pm. Entry to each event cost £5 per person and will include the opportunity to learn basic bike maintenance.
For more information on the Bicester Bike Loan or the cycle rides email info@bicestergreen.org.uk or call 01869 388 564. Alternatively visit the workshop on Station Approach between 10am and 5pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.