Bikeability

Started in 2007, and run by a charitable trust, Bikeability’s core mission is to deliver cycling proficiency training for the 21st Century. It aims to give children and adults the skills and confidence needed to cycle on roads with other road users. It covers everything from learning to ride a bike for the first time, control skills (Level 1), single lane roads (Level 2) to cycling in heavy traffic (Level 3). Nationwide, Bikeability has provided cycle training to over 4 million children.

“Learn to ride: It’s never too late to learn! Adults and children of all ages and abilities can learn. All you need is a bike and some determination.”

Local Bikeability champion, Mike Bray,

Level 1: This covers the control skills which should be mastered before riding on the road. It takes place in a traffic free environment and covers a simple bike check, steering, braking, gears, looking behind and being able to signal. Anyone of any age who can ride a bike can start to learn the Level 1 skills.

Level 2: This teaches how to negotiate simple junctions and typically would start on very quiet roads, building up to a moderate flow of traffic. It covers understanding priorities, where to ride on the road and how to communicate with other road users. Typically, this would be suitable for anyone aged 10 and above although there can be exceptions.

Level 3: This covers town centre riding and would typically include route planning, roundabouts, traffic lights, lane changes and dealing with large vehicles. This is suitable for anyone who has completed Level 2 and is 11 Years+.

Bikeability Levels 1 & 2 are available at all Primary schools in the Lewes area for Years 5/6. There is limited availability at Lewes Priory for Level 3 for Year 7 and above.

Further details about Bikeability can be found at www.bikeability.org.uk

Private tuition is available locally from Mike Bray (mike@onyerbikemike.co.uk).