February 21, 2025

Travel Actively Barrow kicked off half term in style for 27 eager cyclists as they took part in Bike Confidence sessions. From budding balance bikers to aerodynamic adults, there was something for everyone available at Furness Academy. Whilst our fleet of E-bikes always impress, it was our new Brompton bikes that stole the show. The adults were treated to a chance to see these seemingly ordinary bikes fold into the size of a small suitcase! Expert cycle leaders Helen and Freddie from Stage 1 cycles supported the team to deliver 4 sessions throughout the day offering a chance for all abilities to participate.

Starting at 9am a very eager cohort of young cyclists arrived to get to grips with balance bikes, a lively and interactive session followed seeing 8 young riders gain confidence in balancing on their bikes. This is an important stage in learning to ride to eliminate wobbles before bringing pedalling into the mix. For those without their own bike Travel Actively provided bikes to try out throughout the day’s session, ensuring all were welcome and able to participate.

Up next the Learn to Pedal session and 8 kids arrived bike in hand ready to take part. As somewhat nervous faces looked on Helen and Freddie robustly removed the stabilisers from each bike something, they believe, is crucial to learning to ride properly. As the children lined up and took their turn to travel from one side of the room to the other, the parents looked on in awe whilst they gained heaps of independence in just 45 minutes.

4 advanced riders skilfully navigated obstacle courses and took part in challenges led by Helen. A very fun and productive session was had by all and we are sure they will take those skills out into riding their bikes in the real world. Providing independence through active travel is a key aim of the Travel Actively program and this was clear to see in this session.

The afternoon session gave the opportunity for 7 adult riders to upskill and a chance to try out the electric bikes. The riders quickly got to grips with navigating the electric bikes, choosing between low assistance ranging up to high depending on the ride they are facing. After warming up on the court, they took to the roads of Barrow supported by volunteers and Stage 1 Cycles. 30 minutes later, smiles significantly widened, the group returned with stories of a great ride.

Whilst the adult cyclists were gone Travel Actively staff and volunteer mechanic Sten were on a mission to become masters of the Brompton bikes, repeatedly folding and reassembling each one until they got to grips with it. Travel Actively have recently acquired 4, soon to be 5, folding Brompton Bikes which will be available for the public to try out at various events. This nifty piece of kit enables the user to have a state-of-the-art bike whilst overcoming storage issues, the bikes fold down small enough to easily fit under a desk at the office or be placed in a luggage compartment on a packed train for example. However, the fold is not the only impressive feature, models include gravel and e-bikes too! Keep an eye on the Get Involved page on our website and Eventbrite to secure your chance to see the bikes in person.