Free cycling activities in the Black Country
Welcome to The Big Bike Revival in the Black Country
This page is your starting point for all things Big Bike Revival in the Black Country. Whether you want to fix up an old bike, build your road confidence or just enjoy a relaxed ride with others, there are free sessions running across the region – including in Dudley, Wolverhampton and Walsall. You don’t need special kit or experience – just a willingness to give it a go.
Meet your local Cycling Development Officer
Michelle Smith is your local Cycling Development Officer (CDO), working across the Black Country to support people and communities to get cycling.
Michelle coordinates Big Bike Revival sessions throughout the region – from basic bike repairs and learn-to-ride sessions to led rides and road-confidence training. She’s well connected with local organisations and can help signpost you to events happening in your area.
Whether you’re completely new to cycling, getting back in the saddle or just have a few questions – Michelle’s here to help.
Hello! I’m Michelle, and I love cycling in the Black Country – it’s full of friendly, down-to-earth people who care about their community and support one another.
From canal paths in Walsall to parks in Dudley and Wolverhampton, there are so many great places to ride – and always someone ready to cheer you on.
One of the biggest barriers people face here is simply not owning a bike. That’s where The Big Bike Revival makes a real difference. Local groups are given access to bikes and helmets so that everyone has the chance to give cycling a go – no equipment needed. Many women I meet also tell me they never learned to ride as children. The sessions we run, often with women-only groups and supportive female instructors, are changing that every day.
I’ll never forget one woman who was visually impaired and came to an event to try a trike. She was able to ride, join in socially and experience the freedom and joy that cycling brings – all with a big smile on her face.
These events are about so much more than riding a bike. They build confidence, spark new friendships and help people feel more connected to nature and their community. If you come along, you’ll be met with warmth, encouragement and the chance to rediscover what cycling can do for you – whatever your starting point.
What’s happening near you
We’re working with friendly local organisations in the Black Country to offer:
Basic bike repair sessions
- Get a quick repair, puncture fix or safety check by an experienced mechanic – free of charge. Perfect if your bike needs a little TLC.
- Learn what to expect at a free basic bike repair session.
Learn basic bike maintenance
- Want to learn how to fix a puncture or adjust your brakes? Our friendly basic bike maintenance sessions give you the hands-on skills to keep your bike running smoothly.
- Learn what to expect at a learn basic bike maintenance session.
Learn-to-ride sessions
- Whether you’ve never cycled before or want to brush up your skills after time away, we’ll help you build confidence at your own pace.
- Learn what to expect at a learn-to-ride session.
Join a local group ride
- Explore local parks, cycle paths and quiet roads with experienced ride leaders. Go at your own pace, meet friendly people and build confidence on the move.
- Learn what to expect at a local group ride session.
This video gives you a quick taster of what to expect at a Big Bike Revival session. For more details, just click the links above.
Who it’s for
These sessions are open to adults aged 18+, especially if:
- You’re new to cycling
- Haven’t ridden in years
- Don’t feel confident cycling alone
- Your bike needs a check-up or fix
- You want to cycle more for health, fun or everyday journeys
No special clothes, experience or equipment needed – just turn up and we’ll support you.
What people say
Since 2015, thousands of people across the Black Country have benefited from The Big Bike Revival. Here are inspiring stories of how cycling has made a difference.
Jason: Finding confidence and community
Jason, a photographer from Wolverhampton, joined the Pendeford Community Bike Hub in 2023 to improve his fitness and explore his local area. Run by Pendeford Seventh Day Adventist Church, the hub offers more than just cycling – it’s a welcoming space promoting health, sustainability and connection.
After years of on-and-off cycling, Jason found renewed motivation through the hub’s Big Bike Revival sessions. With support from hub lead Calvin – who provided bike lights, a bag and protective glasses – Jason began cycling more regularly and confidently.
I gained more confidence every time I went to the bike hub … Over time, I overcame that fear and found myself enjoying the freedom cycling gave me
Despite living with rods in his back, Jason uses cycling to support his fitness and mental wellbeing. Funding from The Big Bike Revival enabled the hub to expand its activities and offer more support to people like Jason.
Now, Jason hopes to share his journey through film to inspire others to give cycling a go – showing just how transformative The Big Bike Revival can be.
Joan: Getting back in the saddle at 87
Joan Reynolds, of Walsall, hadn’t cycled since her teenage years – until The Big Bike Revival inspired her to give it another go.
With support and advice from her local Big Bike Revival sessions, Joan found the confidence to try cycling again – starting with help choosing the right bike and learning how to maintain it safely.
Thanks to the programme, Joan now has a bike that fits her properly and is kept ready for her whenever she joins in.
I was a bit wobbly at first, but I got the hang of it. I thoroughly enjoyed it – I’m chuffed to bits
Joan says the sessions have been about more than cycling.
I’d recommend older people give it a try. You’ll be surprised the difference it makes. If you don’t try, you won’t do it
Ready to take part?
Browse free sessions, meet your local cycling group and discover how The Big Bike Revival can help you get pedalling again – with confidence.
Have questions? Contact Michelle Smith – she will be happy to help you.
Feeling nervous? Bring a friend for support and make it a fun activity to do together. Coming on your own? Don’t worry – we were all new once, and these events are designed to be beginner friendly and welcoming to everyone
