Now that you’re a bit more settled into York, you might be considering buying a bike. If you’re unsure where to start, we’ve got you covered with this blog on all things related to cycling at the University of York!
Buying your bike
When you’re looking for a bike we recommend buying one that is recycled because not only are they generally cheaper, but they also give an unused bike a new home! On campus, Fulford Cycles visit monthly alongside the Bike Doctor to see their recycled bikes at a discounted price, which is more than ideal for those of us living on Campus. However, if you are looking to buy a bike before their visit, you can visit them in-store, which is only a 30 minute walk from the YUSU offices on Campus West. But don’t cycle without protective gear! From the Bike Doctor/Fulford Cycles you will also be able to get the right safety gear for your bike, including helmets, lights, locks and chains.
Another way to buy recycled bikes in York is to keep an eye for them on the Facebook market page. Some of these bikes might need a bit of repair, but the cost is suitable enough if you have a tight budget. Once you’ve bought your bike, there are plenty of bike sheds and rails located across both Campus East and Campus West for you to store your bike, just make sure you have a trustworthy lock!
Alternatively, you can hire a bike for free by taking part in the University’s Cycle Pool Scheme. There are bikes available for hire for 48-hours at a time from the Ron Cooke Hub, Halifax College, and James College. This is all available with only the cost of a £10 refundable deposit once you return the bike. To join the Cycle Pool Scheme, you must first complete this booking form.
Servicing your bike
Once that you’ve got your bike, if it is ever in need of a fix you can bring it to one of the monthly free Bike Doctor sessions on campus. Leave it in their hands to be checked over, and if there is anything that needs a part replacement, they’ll do so at a discounted price! The upcoming Bike Doctor dates for this term are:
12th October, 10am - 4pm, Ron Cooke Hub (Campus East)
26th October, 10am - 4pm, Ron Cooke Hub (Campus East)
23rd November, 10am - 4pm, Vanbrugh Wall (near Berrick Saul)
14th December, 10am - 4pm, Ron Cooke Hub (Campus East)
Please note that due to the COVID-19 situation, all sessions will require a prearranged drop off and collection slot to be booked (via Eventbrite), and the sessions may be changed in order to comply to COVID-19 guidelines.
If you’re looking to put some air back into your tires, there are many cycle pumps situated around the University that are free to use. On Campus East the two cycle pumps are located outside the Goodricke Nucleus building and the Ron Cooke Hub entrance door.
Why cycle? The benefits of cycling
It goes without saying that one of the greatest benefits of cycling is that it is good for your health, as well as providing you the opportunity for earning some money! The University themselves pay you £10 for completing their 90-minute training session, which is targeted to make you feel more confident about cycling on roads and around the city. You can find out more about this training scheme here.
Another way to earn money by cycling is through Deliveroo and other delivery services. Becoming a rider for Deliveroo means that you can work to your own availability, and there is a high demand at the moment for riders in light of the COVID-19 situation. Find out more about cycling for Deliveroo here.
Not only can you earn money by cycling, but you can also raise money for charity through the Charity Miles app. This app allows you to choose the charity you wish to donate to and is a great motivator to get you cycling. All you need to do is download the free app on your phone, choose your charity, and then let the app donate money for every mile you cycle! Learn more about how Charity Miles works here.
Commentaires