New sessions to encourage people to get on their bikes
News release 10743, published on 18 Mar 2026
Free sessions to help people living in Popley in Basingstoke to build their confidence when cycling will start this summer.
Beginners’ training, confidence building and guided cycle rides are among the sessions that will be on offer in the Ready to Ride pilot project that Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council will launch in the coming months.
The initiative aims to help more people to choose cycling for everyday journeys by giving them the skills, confidence and equipment they need. The training sessions will be led by Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, which specialises in community cycling support.
To make taking part easier, bikes from the Community Furniture Project and cycling equipment will be available for participants who don’t already have them. All ages are welcome, though under 16s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
There will also be pop-up maintenance hubs to carry out free cycle safety checks and simple repairs for any resident who wants help to get their bike road ready, whether they are taking part in a session or not.
Following the sessions in Popley, the council plans to extend its Ready to Ride programme to more areas later this year.
The Cabinet member responsible for the new cycling sessions Cllr Andy Konieczko said: “This is all about giving people and their families the option to leave the car at home and travel by bike to get around and explore the borough in a way that is fun, better for their health and wellbeing and helps keep our local air cleaner.
“We know some people don’t feel entirely confident on a bike and so we’re arranging these sessions to break down some of those barriers. From helping beginners to get comfortable balancing and steering to building confidence on the roads and teaching simple bike-check skills, the trainers will support people at every stage.
“Whether you’re a complete beginner or would just like to feel a bit more confident on two wheels, these sessions with professional, friendly trainers are a fantastic place to start and I’d love to see residents of all ages get involved.”
The programme is funded by the government’s Active Travel Fund. Money was initially allocated to Hampshire County Council, which then awarded a portion to the borough council following a successful funding bid.
Ahead of the sign-up form for the sessions going live, Popley residents can register their interest now by emailing GreenTeam@basingstoke.gov.uk. More information is available at www.basingstoke.gov.uk/ready-to-ride