Are you thinking of starting to ride a bike for fitness, leisure, or for a cheaper and more reliable way to get to work?
If so, the Borrow A Bike scheme is a great way to boost your confidence and discover if cycling is for you before take the next step of riding more regularly.
Benefits of cycling
Overall, cycling is a great way to improve your health and fitness. It is a low-impact exercise that is fun and enjoyable to do. Here are some more of the benefits:
- Improves cardiovascular health. Cycling is a great way to get your heart rate up and improve your cardiovascular health. It can help to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.
- Strengthens muscles. Cycling builds muscle in your legs, back, and core. This can help to improve your strength and flexibility.
- Reduces stress. Cycling is a great way to relieve stress and anxiety. It can help to improve your mood and reduce feelings of tension.
- Improves balance and coordination. Cycling helps you to improve your balance and coordination. This can help to reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
- Helps to lose weight. Cycling is a great way to burn calories and lose weight. It can also help to improve your overall fitness level.
- Is a low-impact exercise. Cycling is a low-impact exercise, meaning that it is easy on your joints. This makes it a good option for people with arthritis or other joint problems.
- Is a fun and enjoyable activity. Cycling can be a fun and enjoyable way to get exercise. It can also be a great way to explore your surroundings and get some fresh air.
- Is a sustainable form of transportation. Cycling is a sustainable form of transportation that does not produce emissions or pollute the environment. It can also help to reduce traffic congestion.
Step by step guide
A few simple steps to a free bike loan.
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Step 1. Fill out the online application form below
Make sure you choose the right local authority so we can partner you up with our local provider
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Step 2. Select a suitable bike
We have a range of sizes and types of bike for you to borrow. All have been recently serviced and we provide the gear you’ll need to get started
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Step 3. We'll email you within a couple of weeks to arrange a good time for you to collect your bike
We have several pick-up locations across the region, which are open Monday – Friday. Bristol location is Create Centre, The Create Centre Smeaton Road Spike Island, Bristol BS1 6XN
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Step 4. Pay a deposit
A deposit is required to ensure the bike is returned in good condition. Prices vary depending on bike type (typically £250 for e-bike-£100 other). This can be paid by card or by cheque. The deposit is fully refunded on return.
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Step 5. During busy periods, there may be a short wait
When the demand is high, we sometimes have up to 6 weeks to wait, but we’ll contact you when we have bikes back in stock
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Step 6. End of bike loan: Follow up survey
Complete a simple survey at the end of your loan period to tell us how it went and if you are cycling more regularly
Types of bikes
Includes
Lock
Storage
Lights
Bell
Regular bike
Suitable for all road conditions. We offer both regular and low-step frames. Bikes are regularly serviced and come with panniers for storage, bike lock and lights.
Includes
Lock
Storage
Lights
Bell
Folding bike
Suitable for people with limited storage at home, work and for commuters taking onboard a train or bus. The bike easily folds down into a compact size for easy carrying. Bikes are regularly serviced and come with lock and lights.
Includes
Lock
Storage
Lights
Bell
Battery charger
Electric bike
Suitable for people who want extra assistance for travelling further distances and for getting up steep hills. Bikes are regularly serviced and come with panniers for storage, bike lock and lights.
Includes
Lock
Storage
Lights
Bell
Battery charger
E-bike conversion kits
The new ‘Revos’ e-bike adaption kit allows you to experience this new technology giving you extra oomph to travel further, or ride up any steep hills. Bikes are regularly serviced and come with panniers for storage, bike lock and lights. Note: The e-bike conversion kit is pre-installed on our regular bike.
Book online
Simply select the area below in which you live, study, or work.
Watch the video
Terms & conditions
- Available to people living, working or studying in the Bristol City, Bath & NE Somerset, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset Council local authority areas only.
- Terms and conditions vary slightly by local authority area.
- A deposit is sometimes required and repaid on the return of bike and accessories.
- Due to high demand, the correct sized bike may not always be available at the time you want it. If so, we will contact you as soon as a suitable bike is available.
- More info will be provided on receipt of your application.
Case studies
Jon
Bristol resident
Priyesh
Self employed
Aurelie
Purchased bike through Cycle to Work scheme
Caroline
Bristol