We know that cycling (similar to walking) is a really good way of keeping physically active, reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes and many other conditions as well as maintaining a healthy weight. It can also help to improve our mood by reducing anxiety, depression and helping us sleep better. Cycling can also help the environment as the more we cycle, the less likely we are to take public transport or drive, which reduces harmful emissions into the atmosphere.
Don’t forget if you plan to cycle on the roads you should familiarise yourself with the Highway Code; this outlines the rules and useful advice to follow when on a bike.
To learn more about cycling activities, bicycle maintenance and a range of cycling related information for North Ayrshire please visit the Trinity Active Travel Hub.
Further information/virtual rides/home workouts and fun resources for children can be found at British Cycling. As well as visiting Cycling UK whereby you can get loads of great information about how you can get involved in Cycling. Another source of information is Sustrans who have specific information on the work they do in Scotland.
There are many local cycle paths and links to National Networks in the area. Full information can be found on North Ayrshire Council, Cycling and Cycle Paths.
North Ayrshire is a part of the National Cycle Network a UK-wide network of signed paths and routes for walking, cycling, wheeling and exploring outdoors. North Ayrshire is a part of NCN Route 7 and Route 73.
The Trinity Active Travel Hub have routes across Irvine that are accessible for cycling and walking.
If you do not have a bike there are many ways to access one. Some employers offer the Cycle to Work Scheme where you can purchase a bike and accessories tax free, ask your employer for details.
You can purchase a new bike or there are some second hand outlets in Ayrshire, see details below:
If you are new to cycling you can access the new cycle loop in Irvine to build your confidence and skills or attend a led cycle, cycle training and bike maintenance sessions at The Trinity Active Travel Hub.
There are many benefits to cycling and there are a growing variety of bikes that can help people of various backgrounds and abilities to get involved.
All Ability Access - Garnock Connections & North Ayrshire Council
Through this project North Ayrshire Council are providing all ability wheelers and associated storage to address inequalities in access to some of North Ayrshire’s beautiful open spaces and green spaces. Information about the project can be found on Garnock Connections.
The all ability wheelers can be accessed at Eglinton Country Park and can be booked out by contacting the North Ayrshire Council Ranger Service on 01294 551776.
Two additional wheelers can be booked out at Ardrossan Beach via Ardrossan Community Development Hub, who have a temporary office and storage facility situated next to a toilet block that will soon be converted into a fully functioning base for wheeler booking, deckchair hire and other exciting activities.
There is scope to have wheelers available to book on a more permanent basis for use at Saltcoats Beach.
Cycling Without Age Scotland is a national charity that aims to "enhance and enrich lives by giving elderly and disabled people access to the beautiful outdoors through their pioneering trishaw rides, access which is denied to so many people simply because of age or limited mobility." Safety is their priority and all volunteers are fully trained.
Cycling Without Age Scotland has a presence on the Isle of Cumbrae and you can find out more information by going to our Directory.
Their trishaws can take up to two passengers at a time. They also have a wheelchair transporter so that those who are unable to sit upright in a trishaw can enjoy the cycling experience while remaining in their own wheelchair.
The friendly team on the Isle of Cumbrae takes people on various routes and are happy for any competent cyclists to accompany trishaw passengers. Passengers can be collected from their own home or can meet at an agreed location. To book a ride with the Isle of Cumbrae group, please call Eileen McAulay on 07772 075295.
Have a look at the Cycling Without Age Scotland Isle of Cumbrae (Millport) | Facebook for up-to-the-minute photos and videos
Want to volunteer?
The Isle of Cumbrae group is always looking for new riders to join the team. Anyone over 16 years old can apply. The trishaws are electric and are very easy to ride. Volunteers can join in with the fun as co-passengers, and help co-ordinate the rides.
You have nothing to lose and everything to gain – fresh air, good company, loads of chat and beautiful scenery!
For a friendly chat about volunteering with the Isle of Cumbrae group, please call Eileen McAulay on 07772 075295.
For more information about Cycling Without Age Scotland (which operates in over 60 locations across Scotland) please visit: Welcome to Cycling Without Age Scotland, email us at info@cyclingwithoutage.scot or call 01324 467 272.
