The Isle of Man Government’s Bike 4 Life scheme restarted today (Friday 31 July) and looks to improve the confidence in people of all cycling abilities and encourage them to choose cycling as a viable option for commuting to work, school or other journeys.
The sessions will run each Friday throughout the summer period from 31 July to 4 September, excluding the bank holiday on 28 August, at the following times:
Open Session (all ages): 10am - 12 noon
Disability Cycling Session (children): 1:30 to 2:30pm
Cycling for confidence (children): 1:30 to 2:30pm
Sessions will teach bike skills in a safe, traffic free environment with qualified instructors providing guidance and expertise. The scheme is ideal for those looking to improve their activity levels and gain confidence to cycle on open roads or dedicated cycle paths. They are also designed for anyone with a disability or who might be recovering from an illness. Bicycles and helmets can be provided on request.
Minister for Education, Sport and Culture Dr Alex Allinson MHK said:
‘For some, a barrier to take up cycling for commuting can be the confidence to use bikes on public roads. Together, the Department, Manx Sport and Recreation and the Isle of Man Constabulary Road Safety Team have put together a scheme that can help build the skill level and confidence in a controlled and safe manner that is inclusive of all ability levels.’
‘The best way to increase physical activity is by making it easy for people to be active within their daily routine. Using non-motorised means of getting from A to B is a great way to work light exercise around a busy work and home life.’
Minister for Infrastructure Tim Baker MHK added:
‘The Bike 4 Life scheme aligns perfectly with the ethos and values of the active travel strategy as we seek to create an island where cycling and walking are normal and realistic transport choices. Giving people the necessary bike skills will increase the use of our new dedicated cycling paths and provide them with the confidence to share our highways with other vehicles.
‘By actively travelling you not only gain the health benefits and cost savings but you also contribute to reducing congestion and lowering carbon emissions.’
To book a Bike 4 Life session visit https://msr.gov.im/nsc/online or ask at the main reception at the NSC. Each session costs £3.60, or £1.80 if you are in receipt of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), and are held at the NSC Raceway.
For further information on the Bike 4 Life scheme contact Zoe Crowe on +44 1624 688575 or email Zoe.Crowe@gov.im for the open session and email Gareth Lloyd Gareth.Lloyd@gov.im for the children’s sessions.
