September. Otherwise known as the month of the bicycle. Or at least it is for those of us taking part in Cycle September...
This UK-wide initiative, organised by Love to Ride, encourages individuals and organisations to get on a bike – or indeed, back in the saddle – cycling as much as possible throughout the month. It’s for everyone: from keen cyclists who ride their bike daily, to those who are trying to become more active or reduce their carbon footprint by commuting on two wheels, to those who occasionally enjoy a weekend countryside cycle (in the direction of a pub serving roasts).
The best part about taking part in Cycle September, besides the myriad benefits of riding a bike, is that you can win some awesome PRIZES, like a brand new bike or a beautiful upcycled bag through Love to Ride’s prize draws. All you need to do is sign up and log your ride(s). Of course, the more you cycle, the more opportunity there is to win. You’ll also be rewarded for encouraging others to get involved, so be sure to spread the cycling love.
And even f you don’t own a bike, there are plenty of bike share schemes across the UK that’ll get you up and cycling. In Brighton & Hove, we’re very lucky to have BTN BikeShare to fulfil our cycling needs. The Fugu team are huge fans of the scheme, and because of it many of us now cycle to and from the office regularly. Cycle September has encouraged us to use BTN BikeShare even more than usual.
Need more inspiration to get involved? Here are some of the team’s cycling-related thoughts:
‘I haven’t owned a bike since I was a teenager but started cycling again when a bike share rack appeared at the bottom of my road. It shaves 15 minutes off my journey to work and means I can drop my son off at school and still get to the office in time. Beyond convenience there’s a great feeling of freedom and it helps me switch off. Three months into cycling and I’ve gotten over my fear of riding on roads. Most drivers in Brighton are considerate and I find bus drivers are particularly good at being aware and giving you space.’ – Vicky
‘Before BTN BikeShare came to town, I never cycled – and I really didn’t understand people’s enjoyment of bike rides. And now, you ask… now I’m on a bike as often as possible! It’s fun and easy, it gets me where I need to be quicker than any other mode of transport in this city at peak hours and it’s good for my body. I LOVE Cycle September. I could win a trip to the Grand Canyon for logging my bike rides, which takes all of seven seconds. What’s more, I like feeling like I’m part of a city-wide challenge to live better.’ – Mila
‘I’ve lived in Brighton on and off for the past ten years but have never even thought of using a bike to get around. Last year my boyfriend decided we were going on a cycling holiday in France. With bicycle purchased, lessons received (AKA me hurtling around The Level yelping while he looked on in despair) and panniers at the ready, I set off on a cycling adventure. In France, I discovered the joy and freedom of being on two wheels. Back in Brighton, I’ve been able to maintain that joy thanks to BTN BikeShare, but without any of the maintenance hassle or fear of my bike being stolen. Taking part in Cycle September has only encouraged me further. Here’s to getting more people feeling confident on a bike – if I can do it, anyone can!’ – Liz
Fred Ellis, project manager for Cycle September in Brighton & Hove also shared his cycling thoughts:
‘I was reading an NHS article this week about the benefits of cycling. All the usual stuff – it’s a low-impact type of exercise, so it’s easier on your joints than running or other high-impact aerobic activities. But it still helps you get into shape. The article got me thinking that for me exercise has just been a by-product of my cycling. It is one of the easiest ways to fit exercise into your daily routine because it’s also a form of transport. I’ve always cycled – to school, college and to work. For these journeys it was cheaper and faster and just made sense. I also love the outdoors and like seeing the changing of the seasons. Particularly this time of year, I take in the changing colours of the trees and nature seems to be a bit calmer after the busyness of summer’
To join Cycle September and other Love to Ride challenges throughout the year, visit: www.lovetoride.net/brighton