Cycle Together is aimed at people who can ride a bike already but would like to increase their confidence when cycling on the road.
Participants of the scheme borrow an electric bike (ebike) for four weeks and attend six hours of guided group rides during the hire period. The loan comes with a lock, lights, helmet, panniers and high vis. The loan and classes are completely free, funded by the National Lottery. You can also take part in the guided group rides using your own ebike.
The scheme launched in May 2021 and has been incredibly popular. We are prioritising people who would like to join the group rides to build confidence cycling on the road. If you would like to take part in the group rides either with your own ebike, or by borrowing one of the Cycle Together ebikes please complete the form below to register your interest.
Taking part in the scheme will support participants to feel more confident, to cycle more often and encourage people to include cycling in their everyday journeys therefore increasing activity levels and general wellbeing, whilst reducing carbon emissions and congestion.
If you are already confident cycling on the road but would like to try out an ebike then we have two hire ebikes available.
FAQs
Do I need to be able to ride a bike already?
Yes! All participants must be able to ride a bike already i.e. start, stop and balance. Participants don’t need to be highly skilled or road confident but learning to ride a bike is not part of this funded scheme.
If you cannot ride a bike but would like to learn then 1:1 lessons can be arranged and paid for independently through a local instructor. Please contact Alex Hooper on 07968 628 700 for more details.
How old do I need to be?
You must be aged 18 years or over to take part in this scheme.
What kind of bike is available for hire?
The bikes available for loan are all Wispa hub drive step through electric bikes.
What is the height and weight range of the hire ebike?
The height range for the ebikes is approximately 5’0” to 6’4”.
The weight limit for the bike including rider and luggage is 21st or 135kg.
Who is responsible for the hire ebike?
The ebike will be your responsibility for the duration of the hire period. It must always be locked to an immovable object and should any damage be sustained to the bike, components or equipment during the hire period, you are responsible for the full replacement cost of the damaged items. Frome Town Council and Paul Vincent are responsible for maintaining and preparing the ebikes before the hire. Please see Terms & Conditions for more information.
Can I take part in the scheme using my own ebike?
Yes. You can take part in the guided Cycle Together rides using your own ebike. You are responsible for ensuring that your ebike is safe and roadworthy ahead of the scheme. It is advisable to arrange a service and safety check of your ebike ahead of the scheme. Please register your interest and we will be in touch.
What personal data will you need from me?
On our booking form, we require you to provide your name, email address, home address and phone number and for security purposes we also require credit or debit card details. We will retain this information in accordance with our privacy policy.
Is there a survey to complete?
All participants who agree to take part in the scheme also agree to complete a survey at the start of the hire period and another at the end of the hire period. The survey is completely anonymous and has been approved by our university partner and received ethical approval. A further follow up survey will be offered to participants who agree to take part in additional follow ups.
The purpose of the surveys is to:
- report to our funders, in this case The National Lottery;
- review and evaluate what is working well and what needs improving in the scheme;
- find out if there are common barriers to cycling which we can then address through future funding bids and projects
- promote the scheme to others
The purpose of the surveys is NOT to report on or to monitor the behaviours of individual participants.
Who’s who?
The bikes are owned by Frome Town Council.
The bikes are maintained by Paul Vincent.
The project is part of our Green and Healthy Futures Programme which is funded by The National Lottery Community Fund.
For more information, contact Project Officer Emma Parker.
