Sky Ride Local cycles are back fun rides come to Southampton

Sky Ride Local rides are coming, so if you’re keen to get out on your bike a bit more this summer, but don’t know where to start, this new series of free bike rides in Southampton could be the answer. In partnership with British Cycling and Sky, Southampton City Council have scheduled an exciting series of guided bike rides for 2016. As part of a campaign to get more people cycling for fun and fitness, Sky Ride Local rides are guided by British Cycling trained Ride Leaders and cover a range of fantastic routes, giving you the opportunity to see your area by bike like never before. What’s more, the rides are pitched at three different levels, so there’s something for everyone. David Bourque, British Cycling’s Director of Recreation and Partnerships, said: ‘There’s no better way to get outdoors, get some exercise and explore your local area with family and friends than on a bike ride. Join the fun and register for a Sky Ride Local bike ride taking place in Southampton this summer. ‘The rides begin on Sunday 29 May, so there’s no better time to get on your bike. Whether you’re building your confidence or looking to challenge yourself, there’s a Sky Ride Local for you in Southampton.’ Dawn Baxendale, Southampton City Council’s Chief Executive, said: ‘The first of this year’s Sky Ride Local events heralds the start of another year of fantastic guided cycle rides. These events have been exceptionally well received by all who have signed up to them and have inspired individuals and families to regularly get out and about on their bikes.’ Even more cycling opportunities are available in Southampton this year with Breeze and Ride Social too. Breeze is the biggest national programme designed to inspire and support more women to ride their bikes. Breeze is led by women, for women. The programme is supported by a network of trained volunteers called Breeze champions who organise local guided rides on a weekly basis. Meanwhile, discover more with Ride Social, Britain’s biggest social cycling community. Cycling is more fun when you do it with others and Ride Social allows cyclists to meet up, form groups and start riding together. British Cycling, Sky and Southampton City Council are committed to inspiring more people to cycle more often in Southampton. It’s hoped that, using routes discovered through Sky Ride Local, Ride Social, Breeze and the big Sky Ride Local event (12 June), people will consider cycling as an alternative to jumping in their cars – reducing congestion in the city and improving general health and wellbeing of residents too. To register for a free guided bike ride and find out more about getting into cycling, visit: goskyride.com/Southampton.