Free Bike Training

[Pope]

Apologies if this has been done before but I came across the below link on my local council's (Kirklees) cycling webpage:
http://www.wygocycling.com/free_training/

They offer free one-to-one classes on bike riding and basic maintenance classes. I applied for the maintenance class, as I'm pretty clueless at the moment of when it comes to that side of things. A bloke rang me back and it has been arranged for Saturday afternoon. I think it's a great idea and brilliant for people like me who are just getting into it (see my post on Cannondale Lady's "Firsts" thread. Also, anything that is helpful and free is a bonus. The fact that it is a person, rather than watching a youtube video is a plus for me too, as you can ask a person questions and they can actually show you how to do things on your own bike.

Apparently, a lot of local councils offer these sort of classes, so I thought I'd share this information for people like me, who are just starting out.

 

[HelsBells Cambs]

I've signed up for a one-day bike maintenance class in early October, as I'm totally clueless when it comes to the mechanics of the bike. It did say "for beginners" so hope they're right
I looked but couldn't find any free courses near me but this one, for a full day, was a very reasonable £60

 

[Berk on a Bike]

I live in Kirklees and had no idea about this! Nice find.

 

[GuyBoden]

Free Cycle training seems to be available in a few UK areas:

Manchester, Midlands, Merseyside and Newcastle are listed.
See Link below:
http://www.bikeright.co.uk/for_cyclists/national_standards_cycle_training/freewheeling/

 

[Batgirl]

Could use this in my area... started trying to teach my 16 year old today.. didn't go well.

 

[Pope]

Following on from this...

....I and another bloke (Keith) went to Bernie's house and were there for 2 and a half hours. Initially, Bernie was looking at Keith's bike, because there was a problem with the gears. He showed us what to do if the brake and gear cable stretch, how to replace a punctured inner tube, how to stop the brake pads rubbing on the wheel and generally answered all our queries.

Turns out Bernie is 75 years old and rides 250 miles a week! Completely puts me to shame.

 

[Batgirl]

That is so great! My motorbike instructor when I was in my early 20's was in his 80's such a great source of knowledge and made me chuckle about his disapproving GP who had to annually review him as fit to drive / ride.. always turning his nose up at him turning up in full leathers. lol

Gotta hope i'm fit enough when I'm older to make people amazed or stare!

 

[Aspiringcyclist]

In my area Transport for Greater Manchester do lots. I've enrolled on a 'learn to ride' two hour lesson as I haven't ridden in years and once I get my bike I will book on a cycle maintenance course. no charge. These courses have helped motivate me, knowing that there is help out there