Cycling is the most energy-efficient mode of transport available to us, by some margin. We believe that getting more people cycling around Shipley would have a hugely beneficial impact on our environment and our health. More people on bikes means less traffic and less pollution, and the effects on people’s mental and physical health of regular bike trips is beyond doubt. In the long term, more people on bikes means opportunities to re-shape our built environment away from car parks and intimidatingly wide roads, and towards a greener, more people-friendly local area.
We run a number of activities designed to make cycling more accessible to anybody – from experienced club riders to those who have never ridden a bike before.
Please note that we do not offer bike sales or repairs: we aim to empower people with the tools and knowledge to maintain and repair their own cycles. If you are looking for professional bike repairs or servicing, try one of the excellent local bike shops featured in our Friends and Partners page.
Adult Cycling Lessons
Free adult cycling lessons are now being run by Capital of Cycling from the Shipley Active Travel Hub. Run by accredited cycling trainers, these sessions are perfect for those completely new to cycling, returning cyclists, and those who wish to gain more confidence with cycling on the roads. There are four levels of cycle lessons:
Level 0 (Learn to Ride)
For complete beginners in a traffic-free environment.
Level 1
For those who can ride a bike but would like to feel more confident riding in a traffic-free environment.
Level 1.5
Riding primarily on cycle paths and Greenways, to get used to shared environments but with minimal interaction with traffic.
Level 2
For those who have completed Level 1 and wish to build more confidence on the roads. Involves short sections shared with motor traffic.
To book a lesson, click here. Make sure that you select a lesson run from the Shipley Active Travel Hub.
For more information, visit Capital of Cycling’s Adult Riding Lessons page or send an email to liz@capitalofcycling.org
Bike Maintenance Classes
Free beginner bike maintenance classes for the general public take place at the Shipley Active Travel Hub on Monday evenings. In the beginner class you’ll learn how to undertake an essential pre-ride safety check whilst familiarising yourself with the key components of your cycle, and then learning how to repair a puncture. Plus there’ll be plenty of opportunities to ask questions if there’s anything else you want to learn! Click here for details of dates and times, and how to sign up.
Improver maintenance classes – that cover repair and adjustment of gear and brake systems – are coming soon, so watch this space.
If you have any questions about the maintenance classes, please contact us.
Bike Kitchen drop-in sessions
This session is open to all; a community bike fix DIY drop-in session where you can come along and use our workshop to repair your own bike. You’ll have access to our tools, our stock of new & used bike parts and we’ll have experienced mechanics on hand to help and advise you should you need it.
No need to register – this is a drop-in session, so you just need to turn up and we’ll be here to help!
The Bike Kitchen is currently running every Monday evening from 5pm-8pm.
Any questions about the Bike Kitchen? Contact us.
Cycling advice and route planning
Want to buy a bike and not sure what you need? Do you have to purchase a replacement part but not sure what would be compatible? Looking for advice on finding a quiet cycling route to work? As keen cyclists ourselves we’re always happy to advise you with any cycling-related questions you might have. Just send an email to adrian@capitalofcycling.org or drop in to one of our Wednesday evening Bike Kitchens.
Dr Bikes
We are often present at local events where we offer simple free repairs in return for donations – keep an eye on our social media or our News & Blog pages for details of the next one. If you’re organising an event and would like a Dr Bike to attend, simply contact us.
Cycling groups
There are a number of friendly, active cycling clubs in the local area that cater to a range of abilities.
If you know about another cycling club in the Shipley/Bradford area that isn’t listed here, please let me know and I’ll add it to the list!
East Bradford CC is a thriving friendly club offering a diverse range of activities, training, events and rides for all abilities and ages from kids to adults including children learning to ride. Their all year round Saturday Bike Club is based at Wyke Community Sports Village (opened 2022) which features a new purpose-built traffic-free cycle circuit.
The Bingley Belles are a women’s-only community cycling group who cycle for pleasure, fitness and wellbeing along canal routes, off-road and some quiet roads. Women of all abilities from Bingley and surrounding areas are welcome. Routes are from 5 to 15 miles, ranging from beginner level to the more challenging routes.
The Queensbury Queens are an all-female cycling club which aims to encourage more women to get out on their bikes. Catch-up chats, coffee and cake figure highly on most of their rides! Rides range from beginners’ Breeze rides along the Spen Valley Greenway to challenging sportives around Brontë Country.