14 September – Win prizes for Cycle to Work day

Cycle to Work Day is a national event, which aims to encourage everyone to take to two wheels and cycle to work for just one day. It’s on 14th September this year, and you can pledge your miles by visiting www.CycleToWorkDay.org.

There’s the chance to win some fantastic prizes too:

• Pledge now to ride on the day at www.CycletoWorkDay.org and be automatically entered to win one of three Merida bikes and other bike goodies.
• Enter the 12 Day Prize Countdown. It starts on the 2nd of September, just follow Cycle to Work Day on Facebook and Twitter to take part.
• Last but not least, you can enter another exclusive draw to win a bike by sharing a photo you on your bike on 14th September using the #CycleToWorkDay hashtag.

Don’t forget, cycling to work is great for your health, saves you money on travel and is a great way to de-stress at the end of a long day! If you don’t normally cycle, why not hit the streets on September 14th feeling safe in the knowledge that you’ll be one of thousands experimenting with 2 wheels and riding to work that day!

If you haven’t been on your bike for a while, help is at hand!

Free Bike Health Checks are available between 1st – 14th September. Hundreds of local bike shops across the UK are offering the check to celebrate Cycle to Work Day – think of it as a MOT for your bike. A trained professional will assess your trusty steed and give it a simple rating of either Green, Amber or Red. As you might expect, Green indicates your bike is in tip-top condition, Amber or Red means it is advisable to book your bike in for a service before you tackle your commute – safety is paramount!

Find a local participating retailer here: www.cycletoworkday.org/retailer-finder

If you are interested in fixing your own bike, take it to the Colchester Bike Kitchen and use their tools and advice to get any problems sorted.

If you need a bike before you’ll be ready to roll, check out Cyclescheme  If your organisation is signed up to the scheme, you’ll be able to save at least 25% on a bike and any gear you need or contact local charity Re-Cycle as they sell a selection of good value, refurbished, pre-loved bikes.

If you are unsure of a route visit Cycle Colchester for route maps.

If you are lacking confidence to cycle and the 14th is too soon. Consider going on a Bikeability course to introduce you to on road riding. The next set of courses will be held in the October half term, find out more on the Colchester Travel Plan Club website.

Happy cycling!