As the Tour de France rolls on, summer 2024 promises to be an exciting season for cycling enthusiasts. While top athletes compete for gold (and the maillot jaune) in Europe, there are countless opportunities for everyone here at home to revel in the joy of cycling. Kettle Chips is proudly supporting British Cycling – the national governing body for cycling in Great Britain – this summer, providing a full lineup of events, clubs, and community initiatives to engage cyclists of all ages and skill levels. Curious to know how to get started? Here are 12 suggestions to hit the road.
1 Start them young
Teaching young children to cycle can seem overwhelming. What if you give poor guidance? Lose your cool? Discourage them from exercising for life? Fortunately, British Cycling’s Summer of Cycling offers children free opportunities to participate in a variety of pedal-powered events across England. Keep an eye out for club taster sessions in your community, traffic-free group rides, coaching, and beginner racing for all bikes and abilities.
2 Plan your route
Even if the whole family feels comfortable on bikes, finding rides that cater to everyone’s abilities can be tricky (and you’d prefer to avoid busy roads and dark alleys). British Cycling’s Let’s Ride routes website hosts details and maps for over 1,000 free, downloadable routes throughout the UK. Simply enter your postcode to discover the best options available.
3 Join a cycling club
Many dedicated cyclists began as casual commuters or weekend riders who eventually caught the cycling bug and joined a club. Surrounded by passionate peers and a variety of events – both competitive and social – you might find yourself surprised at how far (and how fast) you can go. Use British Cycling’s Club Finder tool to locate a club that suits your needs.
4 Break down barriers
Cyclists of all skill levels can feel welcome in a supportive community where they can forge new friendships, learn new skills, and face new challenges. British Cycling’s Limitless program is aimed at breaking down barriers, providing individuals with disabilities the chance to experience the joy and liberation cycling offers. This initiative is changing lives by assisting clubs, groups, and events across the nation.
5 Overcome obstacles
Despite the prevalence of inspirational female professional cyclists, there remains a significant gender gap in the cycling community. According to British Cycling, men are three times more likely than women to cycle for enjoyment. Addressing this disparity by promoting confidence, comfort, and accessibility for women cyclists is central to British Cycling’s Breeze program. Founded by women for women, the Breeze community has supported over 350,000 women in getting on their bikes since 2011.
#PedalWithKettle this Summer of Cycling
• Kettle Chips is thrilled to be the official supporter of British Cycling and will be motivating snack lovers nationwide to #PedalWithKettle through guided rides this summer – featuring free local rides led by trained ride leaders, offering a chance for participants to socialize and build their riding confidence.
• This partnership aims to inspire families across Britain to engage in the Summer of Cycling and enjoy grassroots sports before settling in to support Britain’s top cycling professionals.
• Kettle Chips is dedicated to uniting people through their passion for sport (and, of course, cycling), fueling adrenaline on the roadside and through broadcasts featuring plenty of Kettle’s Gourmet Krunch this summer – keep an eye out for the Kettle Chip team amidst the sporting action.
6 Discover an urban hub
Addressing gender imbalances isn’t the only hurdle to cycling participation; ethnically diverse communities represent only 5% of British Cycling’s membership. The City Academies initiative aims to empower youth from underrepresented urban areas to become engaged in the sport. Local coaches are recruited to tailor programs that meet the interests and needs of their respective communities, creating accessible opportunities and events.
7 Follow a guide
Want to explore new routes or take on fresh challenges? Guided Rides offer a great opportunity to venture out under the direction of a local volunteer leader, who will help you discover stunning views, green spaces, and historical sites. Signing up for sessions is easy; just show up ready to explore!
8 Shift gears
For keen young cyclists looking to take the next step, British Cycling’s Development Centres provide group training sessions and drills that emulate high-level racing and competition. Those who excel will be considered for regional and national pathways, potentially leading to Great Britain Cycling Team academy programs. Who knows where this journey might lead!
9 Keep learning
Despite cycling being a tradition that spans over 200 years, there’s still so much new knowledge emerging. From tips on cycling fitness and race recovery to setting realistic goals and managing stomach issues while riding, British Cycling’s training resources will assist in enhancing your skills and making you a smarter cyclist.
10 Get involved in maintenance
Regardless of the advancements in cycling technology, bikes are still fundamentally simple machines that anyone with a bit of knowledge can repair. Across the UK, you’ll find mechanics, cycle shops, and local council initiatives offering accessible (or even complimentary) bike maintenance courses, ensuring your cycling adventures remain uninterrupted.
11 Volunteer your skills
All these activities rely on countless volunteers across the nation who generously offer their time to help others cultivate a passion for cycling. British Cycling offers a variety of volunteering opportunities – including direct coaching and mentoring, as well as event administration. It’s an excellent way to meet new people and contribute positively.
12 Kick back and enjoy
After achieving your goals, logging your miles, and alleviating saddle soreness, it’s time to take a break and witness someone else putting in the hard work. If you can’t make it to Paris this summer to witness the excitement, there are nine fanzones across the country (from Battersea Power Station in London to the Bullring in Birmingham) showcasing numerous events – from road racing to BMX and mountain biking – on large screens. Additionally, fans interested in local sports can check British Cycling’s event pages for details about happenings nationwide, making it straightforward to show your support.
KETTLE® Chips is backing the Summer of Cycling, offering hundreds of free ways to partake in cycling this summer. From local guided rides to cheering on British medal contenders, there’s something for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or location. Get involved at britishcycling.org.uk
