Stories from the United Kingdom

Back on the bike after coming off and fracturing my thumb, riding to work. Not that this would put me off from getting back on the iron horse.
Love the ride to work, especially in the nice wea... read more

Topic: My commute by bike

1

I started cycling during lockdown and now ride most days to work, the shops or to see friends! I'm loving it and have started riding in the evenings to enjoy the sunset.

Topic: Biking in the Coronavirus Era

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This might be an unpopular opinion, but for me, lockdown had its beauty. Especially when it comes to cycling. Usually when out on the street, I have to face the anger of "car-people" that cut you o... read more

I like cycling but wanted to be more confident on roads and able to do repairs. So I joined a couple of events and have been learning to repair donated bikes for charity which are given to people t... read more

Topic: Encouraging others to ride

4

On the weekend of 19th & 20th June Ilkeston Cycling club are holding an event Midsummer’s Evie, which is for Evie Hartley, a 13 year old who is currently battling a cancerous brain tumour whic... read more

Topic: Other

1

(Not usually one to steal the limelight but) happy to be quoted to help encourage people to ride (or walk) to for short journeys.

[address removed]

It took me a while to start cycling to work but once I did I gained confidence in cycling and love cycling home when the sun is shining! (Not so much fun in the rain!)

Over the last 9 months I've been training for the Three Peaks Challenge.
I have fibromyalgia which it has caused me great pain for much of my life, but I made a decision a few years ago that I... read more

Topic: Encouraging others to ride

2

Cafe88 on Abbey Street in Accrington are cyclist friendly and have great offers for cyclists plus some freebies too (limited amount) such as puncture repair kits, lights etc... There's also free b... read more

Topic: Other

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I fear that I may have become a lowly fairweather cyclist, choosing my indoor bike as soon as it rains., but.....
When I was a teenager I would get up at 4am every morning to cycle a... read more

Topic: Other

3

It came as something of a shock back in March 2020 to receive the text saying I have to shield and can't go out of my house. Prior to lockdown I'd been commuting to London by bike and train 3 days ... read more

Topic: Biking in the Coronavirus Era

3

Today I Rode My Bike After A Year Of Waiting For This Pandemic To End. I Have Forgotten at First How To Ride A Bike But Now I Have Gotten The Hang of It. Thank You For Listening To My Story And I H... read more

first_541069 last_541069 You never forget how to ride a bike! lol

You never forget how to ride a bike! lol

Wales was out of bounds for English cyclists for many months. Very frustrating for Bristol cyclists, given the enticing sight of the Welsh hills from Bristol and surrounding areas. But understandab... read more

Topic: Biking in the Coronavirus Era

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first_157226 last_157226 sounds a lovely few days,quite envious

sounds a lovely few days,quite envious

Corinium Dobunnorum Loop of the Cotswolds- a step back in time exploring the deserted lanes of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Today's commute took us to Cirencester - the forecast... read more

Topic: Encouraging others to ride

5

Beautiful Britain By Bike - Day Two.
Corinium Dobunnorum Loop of the Cotswolds- a step back in time exploring the deserted lanes of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Today's comm... read more

Topic: A story from the Bike Challenge

3

I know many have had a devastating time recently, there are sad stories all the time on the news, but I have had a wonderful time through it all.

My wife and I gave up alcohol on 31 Dec 19... read more

first_478838 last_478838 Thanks for your encouraging story, David - great stuff!

Thanks for your encouraging story, David - great stuff!

first_547744 last_547744 Beautiful, David! I, too, find being on the bike takes me back to being a kid where times were simpler! And yes, I wish I d... read more

Beautiful, David! I, too, find being on the bike takes me back to being a kid where times were simpler! And yes, I wish I didn't stop either.

Growing up for me was tough I was born 1954, if I wanted things I had to get them my self at 7 years old. I spent a lot of time in scrap yard with grandad old bikes were coming in every day and I h... read more

Topic: A happy riding memory

2

I retired so i decided I don't need a car. I always have had a bike (over 60 years) but now I do all my shopping on bike with a trailer, I do 12 miles round trip for dog food, 45kgs on the six mile... read more

Topic: Other

5

Half way to a Proclaimers song. Lockdown 1 came, working from home and missing my hour daily walk. Out came the old bike. Quiet roads, bliss and beautiful Lincolnshire Countryside. But how fa... read more

Topic: Biking in the Coronavirus Era

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first_415571 last_415571 Great going Lisa

Great going Lisa

My dad is in my bubble. Speaking of 'bubble' - in a year of new vocabulary and small geography, on Easter Monday, I got to spend time with my dad. It was nice to focus on something different. (N... read more

Topic: A happy riding memory

1

8

first_569343 last_569343 Wow sounds fun

Wow sounds fun

A 27km night ride all the way to East London to see my 2 week old little nephew from a distance. Well worth it.

Hi, having recently parted ways with my Boardman hybrid comp I acquired a Voodoo Hoodoo off my Son.
Whilst I had an old 2000's 26" MTB, the Voodoo is amazing and has lifted my spirits when it c... read more

Topic: My Bicycle Romance

5

Yesterday we were officially allowed to meet up with one other household outdoors, so we jumped on our tandem (Child 1 on crossbar seat in front of me and Child 2 pedalling at the back) for a 10 mi... read more

Topic: Biking in the Coronavirus Era

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While riding my bicycle recently, my pedals were wobbling from side to side indicating to me that the bottom bracket bearing had worn out. I told my husband and he said ‘I’ll change it, how hard c... read more

Topic: Other

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first_541069 last_541069 What a great story, I'm glad it's not just me that is frustrated by inanimate objects! 10/10 for persistence.

What a great story, I'm glad it's not just me that is frustrated by inanimate objects! 10/10 for persistence.

At the end of the workday, down to the valley to tackle the climb back over the top of the hill. Almost got up it in time for the sunset.
#RideFree

Topic: Other

2

There’s’ nothing like the freedom of being on two wheels and enjoying the outdoors with others

Topic: Encouraging others to ride

2

First ride out probably since before the pandemic last weekend and it was lush! I got out of the habit of cycling to work a while back and forgot how glorious it can be getting out in the countrysi... read more

Hi there good morning,
My name is Simon Millard and I'm fairly new to cycling.
Started slowly and bulit it up I'm lucky enough to live in Salisbury so lots of nice routes to get to work ea... read more

Topic: My commute by bike

Been commuting by motorbike for a good 7 years. It was the easiest way to get to work and park for free. I started watching mountain bike videos on youtube, just because it looked fun. I didn't kno... read more

Topic: My commute by bike

2

my first bike1959 had three wheels one gear and a bread bin on the back at 5 years old I love it I rode to school on the path its was old but it was mine , my second bike was built by me at 7 years... read more

Topic: My first time on a bike in years

I ventured into cycling and kept on changing bikes - starting out carefully with a foldable bike tucked up in the corner of the office hoping that I would be allowed to visit clients soon. I swappe... read more

I think I did to much the 106 miles was hard but I want to prove I still can at 67 took me all day started at 6am stopped every two hours until 3:40pm. I will not be doing it again

Topic: A story from the Bike Challenge

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first_83106 last_83106 i bet you will..... well done!

i bet you will..... well done!

first_558369 last_558369 Now a 50 miler will be easy!!

Now a 50 miler will be easy!!

first_154760 last_154760 Well done, impressive 👏👏👏

Well done, impressive 👏👏👏

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So, I hear of all those people who have taken up riding a bike since C19 swept in.... That is great! More people cycling is a good thing. Here's the thing though.... how many have actually cycle... read more

Topic: Biking in the Coronavirus Era

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first_214275 last_214275 As my main cycling activity was my daily commute and since March 2021 I've worked from home I've definitely cycled less sin... read more

As my main cycling activity was my daily commute and since March 2021 I've worked from home I've definitely cycled less since Covid came along.

When I retired I expected less work but things changed first I got rid of diesel van got a hybrid bike. Now I pick up medication do shopping for a few people that find it hard to get out but I like... read more

Topic: Other

Couldn't decide where to ride on a weekend last month, when my mate suggested Helvellyn I jumped at the chance, we've done it before but not on a day as clear as it was this time.. it's long pedal ... read more

Topic: A happy riding memory

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first_84100 last_84100 Hell, I've just walked it this bank holiday weekend and that was hard enough - good effort!

Hell, I've just walked it this bank holiday weekend and that was hard enough - good effort!

First time cycling in the Lake District - I will be back

Topic: My Bicycle Romance

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first_480358 last_480358 Gorgeous bike!

Gorgeous bike!

As I got older I I decided to change bike bike from road bike to hybrid, first thing i did was replace tires 700c 25mm for low roll resistance, then I changed the cassette from the 11 -34 to 11-42 ... read more

Topic: Other

Beautiful Britain By Bike - Day Three.
A historic tour of Somerset & Dorset.

Today's commute took us to Somerton, Ancient Royal Town of Wessex. Our adventure began under blue skie... read more

Topic: Encouraging others to ride

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A historic tour of Somerset & Dorset.

Today's commute took us to Somerton, Ancient Royal Town of Wessex. Our adventure began under blue skies as we set off towards the old Roman town o... read more

Topic: Encouraging others to ride

2

The North Wessex Downs.
I'm on annual leave so am taking the opportunity to explore a few new places. After a 75 minute commute to Pangbourne, we set off to explore the quiet country lanes of W... read more

Topic: Biking in the Coronavirus Era

3

now i have lots of time I go riding sunday morning I put it on facebook and tell the new riders it's short easy ride and I carry tools for minor repairs. lot are interested but only a odd one turns... read more

Topic: Encouraging others to ride

1

I got my second Covid jab when on bike in full cycling gear, you would think by the looks of people sit there cycling wear was not aloud

Topic: Biking in the Coronavirus Era

2

One evening around 4pm minding my own business cycling home from work, mid-October but still warm sunny.

In the bus lane going past a long que of traffic through Cambridge feeling pleased... read more

Topic: Other

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first_497798 last_497798 I too have been knocked off by cyclist but I was lucky and didn't get injured. It's frustrating that it happens though.... read more

I too have been knocked off by cyclist but I was lucky and didn't get injured. It's frustrating that it happens though. Keep up the good work!

first_549506 last_549506 thats why all of us should have insurance

thats why all of us should have insurance

first_518232 last_518232 I too was in a bus lane when a van decides to turn across my path 5 broken ribs shattered collarbone and shoulder socket f... read more

I too was in a bus lane when a van decides to turn across my path 5 broken ribs shattered collarbone and shoulder socket fractured in two places allowing the arm to dangle. Exactly two years tomorrow 13 May 2019 and only settled has been agreed last week. Anyway back on the bike now.

first_551741 last_551741 glad your back riding!!!!

glad your back riding!!!!

first_479982 last_479982 I had someone step onto a zebra crossing with a red man as I came down a main road in Birmingham, swerved behind them and c... read more

I had someone step onto a zebra crossing with a red man as I came down a main road in Birmingham, swerved behind them and clipped my front wheel on their heel, over the bars I went and snapped my collarbone, they just walked off like nothing happened

Show 3 more comments

Love that the rule of 6 allows me to see some of my favourite people.
My cousin and I did the sites of London. In 35km, we rode alongside the Thames, saw St Pauls, spotted the Shard and Tate M... read more

Topic: A happy riding memory

7

After 30 years I've taking up bike riding again
and finding it enjoyable
riding a few miles a day between 2-5 miles and hopefully do a lot more in the very near future
if you want to r... read more

first_407269 last_407269 Well done Alan, like you I had a 30 year break between cycling periods. I took it up again at age 70 and am doing about 250... read more

Well done Alan, like you I had a 30 year break between cycling periods. I took it up again at age 70 and am doing about 2500 km a year.

first_480358 last_480358 I'm in the same situation, at the moment I'm a fairweather cyclist, using my spin bike in the winter, but I'm determined to... read more

I'm in the same situation, at the moment I'm a fairweather cyclist, using my spin bike in the winter, but I'm determined to get back to the tough cyclist I used to be!

I did not think I was competitive, but now realise I am a bit. 3 older brothers, youngest and only girl. Completing the March challenge during lockdown, with an aging body and bike (30 years ol... read more

Topic: A story from the Bike Challenge

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first_497798 last_497798 Well done! Keep going and catch them up☺️

Well done! Keep going and catch them up☺️

first_549506 last_549506 girls are just as good as the lads just the lad often have the best bike that makes them look better

girls are just as good as the lads just the lad often have the best bike that makes them look better

I was reading about riding safety in the dark, and lots of people said that we are very good a recognising and seeing faces, so I thought I would combine this idea with reflective details.
Wi... read more

Topic: Encouraging others to ride

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first_213759 last_213759 what a great idea :)

what a great idea :)

#RideFree | First time in the office this year and delighted that it was also my first time on the hilly 25km ride that I was commuting together with my youngest, now at school in Sheffield too for... read more

Topic: My commute by bike

6

There once was a cyclist who liked to "Ride Free",
Always stopped halfway for cake and coffee.
He was always seen
on his "freedom Machine",
and that cyclist that loved to ride, was ... read more

Topic: Biking in the Coronavirus Era

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first_378733 last_378733 I'd pack your bags 😎

I'd pack your bags 😎

first_380994 last_380994 Panniers packed a long time ago!

Panniers packed a long time ago!

Hi There,
I'd like to share this circular route, as lots of people in Manchester and Stockport will love it. It takes in part of the Trans-Pennine Trail, Fallowfield loop and Peak Forest Canal,... read more

Topic: My favourite place/route to ride

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first_259697 last_259697 Hello, any chance you can send me the website link? Thanks

Hello, any chance you can send me the website link? Thanks

first_348877 last_348877 Hi Luke I didn't find it on a web site, but put it together by looking at maps. It may be tricky to see some of the joining... read more

Hi Luke I didn't find it on a web site, but put it together by looking at maps. It may be tricky to see some of the joining lefts and rights between the main three parts. Give me a shout if you have any questions. Happy riding!

first_521319 last_521319 Unfortunately i dont seem to be able to expand the map big enough to read it on my pc. I dont suppose you have it as a GPX ... read more

Unfortunately i dont seem to be able to expand the map big enough to read it on my pc. I dont suppose you have it as a GPX file do you Anthony?

first_348877 last_348877 Hi Martin! Yes I do. How can I get it to you? BW Tony

Hi Martin! Yes I do. How can I get it to you? BW Tony

Show 2 more comments