Who is your #BikeHero?

Dad! And Sir Chris Hoy of course…

With just 2% of cyclists having learnt to ride a bike at school, Balanceability urges nurseries and primary schools to play a much-needed role in getting children bike-ready

 A survey of bike-riders by Balanceability revealed that 55% were taught by dad, 13% self-taught, and 11% by mum^*.  Just 2% were taught at school.  As the UK celebrates its biggest annual awareness-raising event for cycling – Bike Week 10-16 June – dads are unquestionably wearing the #BikeHero crown.

When asked who their overall #BikeHero is, respondents to the Balanceability survey placed Sir Chris Hoy, 11-time world champion and a six-time Olympic champion, in first place, followed closely by Sir Bradley Wiggins with Victoria Pendleton, CBE, in third position.

Balanceability, the UK’s only afPE-approved learn-to-cycle programme offering packages for schools, local authorities and leisure sites for children aged 2½ years and upwards, is joining Cycling UK, the not-for-profit charity behind Bike Week, in spotlighting the #BikeHero.  This year’s campaign calls upon cycling enthusiasts to inspire others, with Balanceability urging teachers and teaching assistants at nurseries and primary schools to do the same.

One in five cyclists surveyed by Balanceability said they learnt to ride a bike before school age, with the majority (61%) confirming they learnt to ride when they were primary school age, albeit just 2% or all survey respondents said they learnt at school.

The Department of Transport’s Bikeability Level 1 is for children 6+ years, with other Government cycle programmes aimed at children 10-11-years-old, so Balanceability fits as the precursor. Not only does Balanceability teach children how to ride without stabilisers, but also teaches balance, gross motor skills, core stability and of course, having fun through physical activity.

Samantha Wright, Commercial Manager for Balanceability, part of the TTC Group, explains, “Children learn to crawl before they walk and walk before they run, so why expect a child to progress from riding a bicycle with stabilisers, to riding a bicycle without? The opportunity to master the key aspects of static and dynamic balance is essential, however, for many children, schools provide the most accessible, and sometimes only opportunity for regular, structured play, physical education, physical activity and sports. Cycling should be an integral part of the curriculum, starting at the earliest possible age.”

Balanceability offers a sustainable programme for schools to promote the physical benefits of cycling for children as young as 2½ years old, as well as providing a fun and engaging activity. Schools can purchase a Balanceability Pack which includes all the equipment, resources and training required to deliver the sessions as a sustainable programme. Balanceability can be run by teachers indoors or outdoors as part of the weekly regular PE activity and has been developed to fit into school lesson planning. The programme offers children the ability to become competent cyclists at an early age through the development of balance and control, with 94% of children aged 4 to years 6 years old able to safely ride a pedal bike at the end of the programme.

Olympic Gold-medal winning cyclist and a passionate promoter of cycling across the UK including Balanceability, Chris Boardman, MBE adds, “We need to develop confidence and cycling skills at the earliest stage in our children.  Balanceability is specifically decided to deliver this and is the fundamental starting point for children’s cycling and an excellent opportunity to promote active lifestyles at the earliest possible age.”

The Origins and Purpose of Bike Week

Bike Week began in 1923 in the UK as a way to promote cycling and encourage people to consider bikes as a viable and enjoyable means of transportation. Over the decades, the event has grown in scope and popularity, spreading to other countries and becoming a fixture in the calendars of cycling enthusiasts worldwide. The primary goals of Bike Week are to highlight the social, health, and environmental benefits of cycling, promote safer streets for cyclists, and advocate for better cycling infrastructure.

Key Events and Activities

This year’s Bike Week features an exciting lineup of events designed to celebrate cycling and inspire more people to get on their bikes. Here are some of the highlights:

1. Community Rides: Across cities and towns, community rides will take place, offering cyclists a chance to explore local routes and connect with fellow riders. These rides are often themed and cater to various skill levels, from leisurely family rides to more challenging routes for experienced cyclists.

2. Bike to Work Day: One of the cornerstone events of Bike Week, Bike to Work Day, encourages commuters to swap their cars for bikes. Many cities provide support stations along popular commuting routes, offering free refreshments, bike maintenance services, and safety checks to participants.

3. Cycling Workshops and Clinics: A variety of workshops and clinics will be available throughout the week, covering topics such as bike maintenance, safety tips, and urban cycling skills. These sessions are perfect for both novice cyclists looking to learn the basics and seasoned riders wanting to hone their skills.

4. Family Fun Days: Designed to engage young cyclists and their families, Family Fun Days include activities like bike decorating contests, obstacle courses, and group rides. These events aim to instill a love for cycling in the next generation and show that biking is a fun and healthy family activity.

5. Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns: Bike Week also serves as a platform for cycling advocacy groups to promote safer streets and better infrastructure. Various campaigns and events will highlight the need for protected bike lanes, improved traffic laws, and increased funding for cycling projects.

The Benefits of Cycling

Bike Week is not just about celebrating cycling; it’s also about highlighting the numerous benefits that come with riding a bike. Here are some key advantages:

• Health and Fitness: Cycling is an excellent form of exercise that improves cardiovascular health, builds muscle, and enhances flexibility. It’s also a low-impact activity, making it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels.

• Environmental Impact: Biking is a green mode of transportation that produces zero emissions. By choosing to cycle instead of drive, individuals can significantly reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to cleaner air and a healthier planet.

• Economic Savings: Cycling is a cost-effective alternative to driving. It reduces expenses related to fuel, parking, and vehicle maintenance. For many people, biking can also reduce the need for a second car, leading to substantial long-term savings.

• Community Building: Cycling fosters a sense of community. Group rides and cycling events bring people together, creating opportunities for social interaction and strengthening community bonds.

How to Get Involved

Getting involved in Bike Week 2024 is easy. Here are a few ways to participate:

• Join a Ride: Check local listings for community rides and sign up for one that suits your interest and fitness level.
• Commute by Bike: Participate in Bike to Work Day and experience the benefits of cycling to work.
• Attend a Workshop: Take advantage of the educational opportunities available during the week to improve your cycling skills and knowledge.
• Support Advocacy Efforts: Get involved with local cycling advocacy groups and support initiatives that promote safer and more bike-friendly communities.

Looking Ahead

As Bike Week 2024 approaches, excitement is building in communities across the country. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, with more participants, activities, and opportunities to celebrate the joy of cycling. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just curious about biking, Bike Week is the perfect time to hop on a bike and discover all that cycling has to offer.

Join the movement, pedal with passion, and be part of a healthier, greener, and more connected world during Bike Week 2024.

www.venson.com

A new survey from Venson Automotive Solutions shows there is overwhelming support for Transport Secretary Mark Harper’s plans to improve transport connectivity through road and rail upgrades, with 80% of motorists surveyed giving it the thumbs up. In addition, 64% of respondents said they will use public transport more for travelling longer distances across the UK if transport connectivity were improved.

However, when asked what they would concentrate on to help improve travel if they were Transport Secretary, their priorities differed somewhat. Top of the ‘to-do’ list is repairing potholes with 34% of motorists saying this is where they would focus their efforts.

Comments Simon Staton, Client Management Director, “A well-planned and integrated transport infrastructure can be a vital ingredient in driving economic growth, which is the main reason behind the Government’s investment. With two-thirds of drivers willing to use trains for longer journeys, it appears plans to upgrade rail network would pay off. Nevertheless, it’s telling that if they were given Mark Harper’s job, the majority of drivers would remain focused on tackling the plague of potholes, which continue to affect drivers so detrimentally in the here and now.”

Almost a fifth of drivers (18%) said they would put the installation of more electric charging points top of their agenda if they were made Transport Secretary. Meanwhile, 16% of respondents said that they would focus on renationalising the train services to help improve UK travel.

As the Government progresses with policies and proposals to reach net zero by 2050, drivers would appear to be lending their support. When asked if they would use aviation as an alternative to driving if there were more regional airports, only 14% responded positively.

Simon Staton concludes, “It is encouraging to see that UK drivers are on board with the concept of a more integrated transport system, one which could make a vast difference to their carbon footprint in the future. The fact that they are concerned about improving the charging network and less keen on using air travel is also positive. Nevertheless, businesses remain under considerable economic pressure, so it is not surprising those drivers would focus on what they think would make the biggest difference right now – fixing their biggest bugbear – potholes.”

Ends

If you were the Transport Secretary, what would you concentrate on to help improve travel?

 Notes to Editor

With over 30 years’ experience, Venson Automotive Solutions is a leading independent fleet management specialist. Working with organisations across all sectors, Venson offers a complete range of services to suit all its customers’ needs, including:

• Fleet Policy Advice
• Funding
• Vehicle Acquisition
• Vehicle Disposal
• Transition to alternative fuels
• Service, Maintenance and Repair
• Vehicle Rental
• Accident Management
• Duty of Care
• Workshop Management
• Vehicle Conversion Services

Venson has a proven track record in reducing costs and increasing vehicle availability in businesses across the private, public, not-for-profit and emergency services sectors.

For further press information please contact Justine Hoadley, Cecile Stearn or Kate Bailey Telephone: 020 8977 9132. Email: venson@harrisonsadler.com

*Independent survey of 300 motorists via Maru Hub 8^th January 2024

But road safety expert TTC calls upon local authorities and fleet managers to offer training programmes to boost rider confidence

• More than 50% of consumers would consider riding an e-scooter for leisure or business use if training were on offer
• 89% of would-be riders called for a rider assessment to be put in place – similar to the cycling proficiency
• Sustainability and environmental benefits are the key drivers behind growing consumer appetite, followed by avoiding traffic and saving time

With over 30 local authorities across the UK weighing up the opportunity to extend and scale-up their electric scooter trials following an announcement by the Department of Transport, new research from TTC, the trusted training and compliance expert, suggests that consumer appetite for riding e-scooters for personal and business use is on the rise.[i]  Over 50% of those surveyed said they would consider an e-scooter as an alternative mode of local transport.

Sustainability and environmental benefits were the main reasons respondents would like to use e-scooters, with one in three placing this as the most important factor in the decision. Avoiding traffic was the second most common reason, followed by saving time.

Alongside announcing new regulations that enable local authorities to request changes to the geography and fleet size of their e-scooter trials, the government also issued guidance on purchasing, charging and using e-scooters. However, TTC’s survey suggests that not enough emphasis is being placed on ensuring riders of rental scooters have the right skills and road safety knowledge to benefit from their availability.

One in two consumers expressed skills and safety concerns and one in four respondents said they would only consider using an e-scooter locally if they received road safety training. Furthermore, 19% would only scoot if they could use dedicated lanes – like cycle lanes.  Most respondents (89%) felt e-scooter riders should be required to complete an assessment similar to the cycling proficiency test before being able to rent a scooter to ride on the road.

Jim Kirkwood, CEO of TTC commented, “E-scooters provide a great way to get around towns and cities without relying on crowded public transport or polluting cars. However, many people are put off from taking advantage of rental schemes because they do not feel ready or safe to scoot on the road. With interest growing, a lack of experience and knowledge is a simple roadblock to remove via dedicated training that boosts rider confidence.

“Courses are readily available to support individuals in gaining the skills and knowledge required to ride safely and confidently on the road. Local authorities and businesses can offer these courses to increase the use of zero emissions mobility for local journeys without putting personal and business use riders at risk. While local authority trials continue across the UK, we hope to see consideration given to implementing an e-scooter proficiency test or mandatory training course for new e-scooter riders. This could boost take-up by giving riders confidence, whilst keeping all road users safe.”

Electric bikes, also known as e-bikes, have become increasingly popular in recent years. With the rising trend of eco-friendly transportation, e-bikes offer an alternative to traditional bikes by providing pedaling assistance and allowing riders to travel further and faster with less effort. However, before purchasing an e-bike, there are a few important factors to consider to ensure you make the right choice. Here are some things to be aware of when buying an e-bike:

1. Riding Range and Battery Life: One of the most important aspects to consider when purchasing an e-bike is the riding range and battery life. Different e-bikes have varying battery capacities, which determine how far you can travel on a single charge. It is crucial to determine your commuting needs and choose a bike with a battery that can support your travel demands. Keep in mind that factors such as terrain, rider weight, and assist levels also influence battery life. It is recommended to select a bike with a battery that provides a range slightly higher than your daily riding needs to ensure you are not left stranded on longer trips.

2. Motor Power and Performance: The motor is at the heart of every e-bike, and understanding its power and performance is essential when making a purchase. E-bikes typically come with motors ranging from 250 watts to 750 watts. The motor power determines how much assist the bike can provide, especially when climbing hills and riding against strong headwinds. For urban commuting, a motor power of 250-500 watts is generally sufficient, while off-road or mountain biking may require more power in the 500-750 watt range. It is important to choose a motor power that suits your intended usage and provides the necessary boost for your cycling needs.

3. Bike Frame and Weight: E-bikes come in various frame styles, including step-through, mountain, hybrid, and folding, catering to different preferences and riding styles. It is essential to choose a frame design that complements your body type and offers a comfortable riding experience. Additionally, consider the overall weight of the bike, including the battery. E-bikes tend to be heavier than traditional bikes due to the extra components, so it is crucial to select a weight that you feel comfortable handling. A lighter bike may provide better control and maneuverability, especially for those who plan to transport or store their e-bikes frequently.

4. Brakes and Suspension: Another aspect to be aware of when purchasing an e-bike is the braking system and suspension. E-bikes generally have two types of brakes, either rim brakes or disc brakes. Disc brakes provide superior stopping power and are more reliable, especially in wet conditions. Suspension is also an important consideration, particularly if you plan to ride on uneven terrain or off-road. Suspension systems can absorb shocks and vibrations, enhancing rider comfort and control. Depending on your riding preferences and intended usage, ensure that the e-bike you choose is equipped with appropriate braking and suspension systems.

5. Price and Warranty: Lastly, when buying an e-bike, it is essential to consider the price and warranty offered. E-bikes can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the brand, features, and quality. It is advisable to determine your budget and research different options within that range. Additionally, check for warranties offered by manufacturers, which can vary in terms of duration and coverage. A reliable warranty is crucial, as it provides peace of mind in case of any manufacturing defects or issues with the e-bike.

In conclusion, buying an e-bike requires careful consideration and research. Analyzing factors such as riding range and battery life, motor power and performance, bike frame and weight, brakes and suspension, as well as price and warranty, will help you make an informed decision. It is also beneficial to test ride different e-bike models before making a purchase to ensure that you find the perfect fit for your needs and preferences. With the right e-bike, you can enjoy the benefits of assisted cycling and contribute to a greener future of transportation.

The initiative is designed to increase healthy living amongst older people in the local area as part of the wider Peoplehood project, which was started in Buckie in 2021 by specialist housing and care provider, Blackwood Homes and Care.

The launch event will take place at the Buckie High School grounds, where a new bike storage facility will also be unveiled.

The bike storage facility is dedicated to the memory of Anita Milne, who recently passed away. Anita was instrumental in setting up the Buckie Active Travel Group and was an active member the Buckie community.

At the event, all attendees, who can sign up for the Peoplehood project for free, will have the opportunity to try out a range of bikes, including e-bikes for people with low mobility, adaptive bikes for people with disabilities, manual pedal bikes for adults, and there will also be bikes available for younger people.

Everybody in the Buckie community is encouraged to attend and join in the fun.

The Buckie Bike Club is just the start of the project’s cycling programme, which will be officially launched later in the year.

The programme will also include community-led bike rides, confidence-building cycling sessions, cycle group leader training, and a bike lending scheme.

Peoplehood’s Sustaining Physical Activity Lead Vivienne McNiven says the Buckie Bike Club will be a fun way for local people to keep fit and have fun.

Vivienne said: “We believe that cycling is a fantastic way to stay healthy, explore the local area, and meet new people.

“We are committed to providing accessible and inclusive cycling opportunities for all members of the community, and we look forward to seeing as many people as possible at the Buckie Bike Club launch event.”

Hethel, UK – 8 March 2023
Lotus has announced its golden collaboration with British Cycling will continue, with the development of a new track bike for Team GB riders to use at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. The division of the business which delivers this and other consultancy work is Lotus Engineering, internationally recognised for its long-standing contribution to ground-breaking design, collaborative advanced engineering and innovative product development for OEMs, suppliers and other businesses.

The new bike’s development is the focus of the final chapter of the Lotus Engineering: The Innovators series, which turns the spotlight on the fourth of its core portfolio pillars – the Technical Services it offers to clients. These include intelligent design, product concept, attribute development and advanced materials, all of which are integral to the British Cycling project.

Mark Stringer, Commercial Director, Lotus Engineering, explained: “Technical Services is about what we can supply throughout the entire product development process. We take the core principals we have gained from automotive development, where we have a global pedigree, to develop solutions across the wider mass transportation and personal mobility sectors.”

The three other pillars covered previously in this series are Platforms, Control Systems and Dynamics.

The partnership with British Cycling is just one example of Lotus Engineering’s collaborations, most of which remain confidential at clients’ request. The consultancy’s involvement with two-wheelers has already included co-development of the track bike for the Tokyo Olympics 2020, which eventually took place in 2021 due to Covid-19. However, it stretches back to the early Nineties and the Lotus Type 108 – the LotusSport Pursuit Bicycle – a revolutionary concept that showcased a ground-breaking monocoque design, advanced carbon composite construction, and, with its aerofoil cross-section, a pioneering approach to aerodynamics.

Just like cars, bikes can benefit from the application of mechanical efficiency and the Type 108 helped British rider Chris Boardman rewrite the track cycling history books and win gold at the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona. Its success sparked the genesis of the Lotus Type 110, a time trial bike boasting many of the same innovations. Again, the cycling world had seen nothing like it and Boardman won the Prologue time trial in the 1994 Tour de France.

Then, as now, development work is focused on core Lotus values – a pioneering approach to light-weighting, advanced materials and optimised aerodynamics. So what has changed in the three decades since the Type 108? Certainly not the physics, but the understanding of the science had moved on. As Richard Hill, Chief Aerodynamicist for Lotus, commented: “Back then, it was simply about developing an aerodynamic bike that would go fast. But really there are two separate elements – the bike and the rider – which come together as one to move through the air. That was the approach we took with the Tokyo bike and is continuing for Paris 2024.”

Beyond the technical, Lotus Engineering regularly calls on the Lotus Design team as an integral part of its service offering. The latter – based at Hethel, Norfolk, since it was established in 1985 – has developed several other two-wheeled projects including motorcycles and scooters.

Barney Hatt, Head of Advance and Consultancy Design, who has previously worked on client programmes such as the Tesla Roadster, commented: “Our objective is to design compelling and commercially successful world-class products that are beautiful, visually innovative and that reflect the client’s core values, meet the budget targets and satisfy the end user’s functional requirements.”

During more than three decades of work, Russell Carr, Director of Design at Lotus, has been involved in numerous consultancy projects: He added: “We’re able to apply the experience we have gained in automotive to other forms of mobility. Whilst aesthetics is crucial to the success of a product, we are co-located with our renowned engineering team, meaning we work hand-in-glove to strike the perfect balance of form and function which is integral to product design with engineering integrity.”

The design studio at Hethel is a contemporary and purpose-built facility which, like other areas on site, has received considerable investment in recent years. The Virtual Reality/Augmented Reality (VR/AR) suite and 3D printing equipment is state-of-the-art, as is the milling studio, which has been upgraded to a 12-metre bed plate, plus 2 x five-axis milling capability with Kolb Studioline M masts and bespoke extraction system. Photometric scanning fully supports the design process with large format and portable optical scanners.

Hethel is also home to three secure studios with integrated surface plates and workspace for designers, digital modellers and studio engineers. A secure presentation room with a four-metre screen is also part of the facilities.

Russell explained: “The implementation of these upgrades at Hethel has fundamentally changed how we work and how we communicate with clients. The VR/AR suite and online data reviews give us an increased global reach, offering the client the opportunity to review 3D digital models from anywhere in the world, either on screen or through immersive headsets.”

While the artisan skill of manually sculpting designs in clay is still very much within Lotus Design’s capability and process, it is enhanced by the automated milling of models and 3D printing of components using the very same data that is reviewed in the virtual world.

“This seamless interaction of multiple mediums allows for more iterations and more life-like representations, which gives greater reassurance to the client and ultimately facilitates the best possible outcome.”