Let’s Get Doncaster Cycling!
Hello there
Did you know that cycling is one of the most popular activities in the UK? In fact, the popularity of cycling for both fun and getting around is on the rise. Last year, the number of miles cycled on British streets rose by a massive 46%!
Doncaster is one of many towns across the country investing in new and improved infrastructure so that more people can enjoy the benefits of getting on a bike. With its beautiful parks and countryside trails, Doncaster offers lots of scenic routes for getting out and exploring on two wheels, or for getting from A to B.
As part of our campaign to Get Doncaster Moving, we’ve been speaking to residents in Doncaster about the difference that riding a bike has made to their lives. Below, you can read about how cycling has helped to improve Vivian’s health and wellbeing, and how Julian is supporting other people in Doncaster to get cycling by offering bikes and repairs through local charity, the Yorkshire Bike Shack.
You will also find information on the support available to help you get cycling, and/or get your bike repaired.
Together, let’s enjoy the benefits of getting on a bike – and let’s Get Doncaster Moving!
Julian’s story: Helping others to get cycling
Julian Pike has always been a keen cyclist, but when the first lockdown began last year, he decided to take his passion to a new level. Together with his wife he set up Yorkshire Bike Shack, a social enterprise that repairs bikes and passes them on to those in need across Doncaster. The enterprise helps to provide transportation and get people out and about and active.
“I like to keep busy and want to do my bit to help people,” says Julian, 53. “So I bought a couple of bikes to do up and sell or donate to people who need them.
“After a while I found myself with spare bikes. My wife and I are foster carers so we put the word out with the fostering community and started to find homes for bikes I’d done up – and it went on from there.”
Julian says there are so many benefits to cycling, and believes Doncaster is a great place to get on a bike. “Cycling is a really good way to keep fit and to get around. You don’t need any fuel and it doesn’t create pollution.
“There are some great places around here, you’re never very far from somewhere green and a bike is the ideal way to explore.”
Find out more about the Bike Shack: Yorkshire Bike Shack CIC - Home | Facebook
 Is your bike in need of repair?
There are a number of local bike shops that offer private cycle repairs across Doncaster.
Employers may also be interested in the council’s funded ‘Bicycle Buddy’ scheme. The scheme offers any organisation across Doncaster access to free cycle services and repairs for their employees.
How you can discover cycling in Doncaster
Why not try cycle training with Pedal Ready? This is something fellow Doncaster resident, Vivian Ngum did to help her get started and she’s glad she did.
She explains: “I love cycling because it clears my mind. In Cameroon, I didn’t have the opportunity to start cycling, however a local charity donated a bike to me and I started taking lessons. I now cycle around Sandall Park and feel really blessed being around nature.”
Vivian is building up her confidence on the bike, while also using it to get around and meet up with friends: “I’m still a bit nervous on the roads but I’m getting better and finding some good trails,” she adds. “My friend is getting a bike so we are planning some outings. She’s my sports buddy!”
Pedal Ready offer free Learn to Ride and Cycling Confidence courses in Doncaster at Woodfield Park and Sandall Park. You can even borrow a bike for the duration of the session. Booking is essential, visit the website for details. Calendar (pedalready.uk)
There are also lots of clubs and cycling groups across Doncaster that offer cycling training, tips and fun opportunities to get together with others on a regular basis throughout Doncaster.
More information about cycling in Doncaster please visit:
We want to hear your story
Help to Get Doncaster Moving by sharing your story of how walking or being active has made a positive difference in your life, using the hashtag #GetDoncasterMoving on social media
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