Cycling
Cycling is a brilliant mode of transport that is accessible for all; it’s sustainable, healthy, and quicker than most forms of transport for short journeys. In fact, it’s three times faster than walking and a great way to maintain a healthy lifestyle, as well as visiting local sites and amenities within your area. Within a short 13-minute cycle, you can reach the heart of Sudbury town centre and train station.
Did you know 36% of Dutch people list travelling with their bicycle as their most frequent way of getting around? In fact, the Dutch have saved over £250 million in health care and reduced air pollution from their relationship with bicycles.
Looking for a fun activity?
There is a combination of on road cycle lanes and traffic free cycle lanes close to Maidenfields, so perhaps you could take a family trip out on the bicycles?
National Cycle route 13 is specifically for guiding cyclists, connecting London all the way to Dereham in Norfolk! The route runs along the west side of Sudbury; it’s accessible through the beginning of The Gainsborough Trail, on the south side of Sudbury. Here you can head south towards Colchester, or north towards Bury St Edmunds.
If you’re looking for a fun weekend activity, travelling just 5 miles north on the cycle route will bring you to Melford Hall, a National Trust protected estate which has a fascinating history, nature walks and fun activities for children.
Download your free cycling route map here.
Did you know the National cycle route 1 is part of a longer route called EuroVelo 12 which connects to Norway and Holland? EuroVelo is a network of 15 fantastic long-distance cycle routes which connect the whole European continent. These cycling trails are a cycle tourist’s dream: epic journeys which take in some of the best landscapes and places of cultural interest in Europe.
Are you up for the challenge?
Do it yourself…
It’s always useful to be able to do basic bike servicing so you can maintain the health of your bike. This will ensure a safer, easier ride with no technical difficulties!
If you’re unsure where to start, this short video runs over the top tips when doing it yourself:
Or, let someone else do it…
If you’re not feeling confident enough for DIY, or just don’t have the time, here are some local bike shops that can help you out:
Cycling on Road
Cycling on the road can be daunting. We understand while many people might want to cycle more, they lack the confidence to do so. Therefore, here are some links that could help you build your confidence on the road!
Free Cycle Training
The Suffolk Road Safe Team are now delivering sessions for families who want to cycle more regularly, whether to keep fit, to commute to work or school, or to go and visit friends!
The session will be about 3 hours long and free of charge. They will come to you, chat about what you are trying to achieve, and then work on your route or specific challenges that you have.
Some of the things you’ll learn include:
- how to ride with your children so that you can help them gain confidence;
- a simple system for remembering how to deal with different road scenarios;
- how to improve your safety at any junctions you use;
- how you can use your road position to control other road users and enhance your safety.
Find out more here.
Useful Apps & Websites
Cycle Scheme
An employee benefit that saves you 26%-40% on a bike and accessories. You pay nothing upfront and the payments are taken tax efficiently from your salary by your employer. You can also request a cycle to work package of more than £1,000, allowing you the freedom to save on e-bikes, cargo bikes and specialist adapted cycles.
E-bikes
E-Bikes
Make commuting easier! Compared to traditional cycling an E-bike can provide the confidence you may need. Great for extra assistance with pesky hills and a boost for longer journeys.
Not sure if you want to commit to one yet? Visit Halfords for a free 6 hour trial on an e-bike to see if this is the way forward for you!