Bike

Cycling is a healthy, affordable and sustainable way to access nature in local communities and across the Avalon Marshes – but for many local people, there can be barriers to cycling, such as limited ability to repair a bike, lack of confidence, or no access at all to a bike.
 

That’s why Step Ride Thrive has invested in practical support for cyclists of all ages, by offering free community “Dr Bike” repair sessions and school workshops. A facilitated group cycle ride with the use of free hybrid and e-bikes was also held at the Avalon Marshes in September 2026, and future sessions are planned.

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The Dr Bike sessions have been delivered by Somerset charity On Your Bike, which refurbishes donated bicycles, sells affordable bikes, and delivers training and maintenance workshops. The full cost of an engaging community bike repair event (£250 per day) is covered by the project. These friendly drop-in sessions are run by qualified mechanics, who provide a free bike check-up, make basic repairs on the spot, and offer advice on how to keep it in good working order. All ages and bike types are welcome. 

The school sessions have been tailored for year 5-6 pupils, with each workshop costing £400 (covered by Step Ride Thrive). The sessions have been designed to complement Bikeability and can be scheduled either before or after those sessions. Activities include learning how to perform a safety check on a bike, identifying the parts of a bike, participating in a puncture race, and completing a quiz. The sessions aim to promote safer cycling practices while enhancing the skills taught in Bikeability.

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Through this initiative we have aimed to make it easier for everyone to enjoy the benefits of cycling and explore the landscape on two wheels. By summer 2026 a total of 19 community bike repair and school education sessions had been delivered across the Avalon and Poldens area.

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