 Young people riding bikes
If you or someone you know is going to be riding to school or college this new term, some of our free resources might be just what is needed to keep wheels rolling smoothly.
Read more about both in this newsletter!
 People riding tricycles in a park in Coventry
In the last edition, we announced 3 more dates for Midland Mencap's Parkride events. Now we can confirm the times and venues.
The full remaining programme now takes place as follows:
- 30 August – Longford Park (11am - 2pm)
- 3 September – Longford Park (11am - 2pm)
- 6 September – War Memorial Park (11am - 2pm)
- 10 September – Gosford Park (1pm - 4pm)
- 17 September – Shultern Lane (11.30am - 2.30pm)
Parkride is an event where anyone can try riding inclusive and accessible cycles in the calm setting of one of Coventry's lovely parks or open spaces.
Booking is not required, but contact the organisers if you have a specific need.
 Poster advertising the Learn to Fix sessions
Baffled by brakes? Gears driving you crazy?
Why not join one of our free Learn to Fix sessions where you can master the art of basic cycle maintenance.
Sessions cover:
- tyres and punctures
- brakes
- chains and gears
- bike kitchen – general maintenance and winter servicing
Training is available to anyone aged 16 or over, so ideal if you or someone in your family is going to be cycling to college this new term.
These sessions will be popular so book now to guarantee your spot.
 A young woman on a West Midlands Cycle Hire bike
The West Midlands Cycle Hire scheme recently reached a milestone of its one-millionth ride.
Fear of missing out? Then why not give the scheme a go? You may even be eligible for free minutes.
 A pair of West Midlands Cycle Hire bikes
Whether you're just getting started, or a seasoned rider, you could be eligible for free minutes to use the West Midlands Cycle Hire scheme.
The Go Cycle promotion is offering up to 600 free pedal bike minutes (or 300 free minutes for e-bikes and e-scooters) to people with the following eligibility:
- Someone earning less than £30,000 per year
- A full time student
- Someone not in education, employment or training who is attending an organisation for support
But hurry, this offer is closing soon.
 Police officers and a council officer pose with seized illegal electric bikes
Police and Council enforcement officers seized counterfeit items, illegal e-bikes and recovered drugs as part of efforts to drive down crime and make communities safer in Coventry.
Dozens of officers took part in a citywide operation yesterday, starting with dawn raids on suspects and running into the night with armed patrols targeting people linked to gangs and serious and organised crime.
The operation tackled a wide range of the crimes and nuisance anti-social behaviour issues that impact communities the most, working with partners from the City’s Community Safety Partnership and including Network Rail, Business Improvement District staff and more – resulting in arrests.
A targeted operation in the city centre focused on the illegal use of ebikes which has been a concern for people. Specialist police motor cyclists on off road bikes assisted local police officers, community safety wardens and neighbourhood enforcement officers resulting in nine ebikes being seized. This enforcement has followed ongoing engagement with ebikers to explain the law and impact of dangerous cycling. Positive feedback from shoppers and businesses was overwhelming.
Some of the e-bikes seized taken off the streets are capable of 60mph speeds.
 Four photos of people enjoying cycling
The “Love to Ride” annual Cycle September challenge returns again this year. Every time you log your ride or encourage someone else to take part during the month, you get a chance to win a prize. There is an extra motivation for anyone who works in Warwickshire, as employers based in the county are competing to see who can ride the most during the month. Find out more on the Love to Ride website and if you work in Warwickshire, encourage your colleagues and managers to check it out as well.
 Route diagram of the 2025 Sikh Helpline cycle ride
Sunday 7 September sees this year’s edition of the now-annual Sikh Helpline Family Charity Ride.
Registration is from 8am, start at 9am and finish by 1pm.
The 12-mile route starts and finishes at Ramgarhia Gurdwara, CV6 6EP and takes in all seven Gurdwaras in Coventry and Exhall:
- Shri Guru Ravidass Gurdwara
- Nanaksar Gurdwara Gursikh Temple
- Gurdwara Guru Nanak Parkash
- Guru Harogobind Sahib Ji Gurdwara
- Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha
- Gurdwara Dukh Nirwarn Sahib
Money raised helps support the Sikh Helpline charity. You can contact the Sikh Helpline on 030 0030 0063 or 079990 04363.
Retro-looking illustration of an old fashioned bicycle
Did you know that Coventry is the birthplace of the modern bicycle? The Starley family were pioneers in the city's cycle manufacturing industry, and the Starley Sportive is an annual charity ride to celebrate their legacy.
This year's event takes place on Sunday 21 September with multiple routes available, including a short route specifically for under-16s.
 A bike mechanic is learning over to inspect a wheel
I don't know about you, but just reading about these rides is making me tired! Make sure your wheels won't let you down by taking your cycle along to one of our free drop-in Doctor Bike sessions. Our mechanic will check your bike and replace brake cables and gear cables free of charge as well as make minor adjustments to things like seat posts and panniers.
But hurry! There are not many dates left before this summer's programme finishes.
- 31 August – Nauls Mill Park (part of Bands in the Park 2025)
- 2 September – UHCW Clinical Sciences Building
- 10 September – UHCW Clinical Sciences Building
- 12 September – St Francis Employability
- 14 September – Caludon Castle Park (part of Bands in the Park 2025)
- 26 September – Canley Community Centre
No booking is required – just turn up! Exclusions apply.
 A man riding a bike at night with a bright front light
As the nights draw in, make sure you know the law on lights when cycling. Cycling UK has put together some helpful advice to help you understand what you need to do to stay safe and within the law.
If you need new lights, why not visit your local bike shop?
A limited number of reflective vests are also available free to charities, schools and employers based in the city. To enquire, please email cyclecoventry@coventry.gov.uk
For information on learning to ride, routes, bike shops visit www.coventry.gov.uk/cycling
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