Hackney’s winter cycling extravaganza
As the clocks go back and the nights draw in, cyclists can get their winter fix of bike maintenance in a series of pit stops starting this week.
Hackney Council’s popular cycle pit stops are back this winter to help cyclists prepare for winter and ride through until spring with a free bike check and a free set of lights.
The first pit stop takes place this week at the junction of Pitfield Street and Hoxton Street.
In another boon for both the borough’s cyclists and residents who want to take up cycling, Hackney’s Try a Bike scheme is also being relaunched. The scheme offers residents the chance to try a bike for a month as well as lights, panniers, a helmet, lock and bike seat, for just £10.
After four weeks, the bike can simply be returned, and the Try a Bike team will help residents find a discount at a local bike shop, source a reconditioned bike, or help with using dockless or Santander bikes across the borough. More information about Hackney Try a Bike can be found at www.hackneytryabike.com.
As we go into winter, residents should take advantage of the drop-ins we’re holding every month and the expert advice on offer at our cycle pit stops, not to mention the great freebies. It’s so easy to cycle in Hackney all year round, and we’re currently making it even easier by closing streets to traffic at Darnley Road and implementing segregated cycle lanes at Wick Road among lots of other schemes. Our new Try a Bike scheme will also give residents the chance to try a bike for £10 so they can enjoy the health and economic benefits that cycling brings.
Pit stop times and locations
Each pit stop runs from 4pm until 7pm:
- Monday 30 October, Pitfield Street/Hoxton Street
- Sunday 26 November, Hackney Town Hall
- Thursday 14 December, Martello Street
- Thursday 11 January, Mare Street Narrow Way
- Wednesday 14 February, Butterfield Green
- Thursday 15 March, Powerscroft Road
Top tips for cycling in winter
- Lights – white at the front and red at the back. Make sure they can be seen by others.
- Reflectors – required by law on all bikes built since 1990.
- Reflective clothing – wear something with reflective strips after dark, and bright clothing during the day.
- Be confident – Be aware of your road position, stay away from the kerb and ride far enough away from parked cars to avoid opening doors.
- Cycle considerately – Remember that pedestrians have priority in shared spaces with cyclists, in particular parks and canal towpaths.
- Tyres – Replace your tyres if they look worn and watch out for slippery leaves on the road.