Free cycling activities in Leicestershire
Welcome to The Big Bike Revival in Leicestershire
This page is your guide to The Big Bike Revival in the Leicestershire area – what it is, how it works and how you can get involved. Whether you’re getting back on a bike, trying cycling for the first time or just want some extra support, you’ll find free, friendly sessions happening near you. No special equipment or experience needed – just come as you are, and we’ll help you get rolling.
Meet your local Cycling Development Officer
Whether you’re new to cycling or looking to build your confidence, your local Cycling Development Officer (CDO) is here to help.
Sharen Ravat works in Leicestershire to support people and communities to get cycling – offering advice, practical support and links to local events and activities. She helps coordinate Big Bike Revival sessions across the area, from bike checks and basic repairs to learn-to-ride sessions and friendly group rides.
If you’re looking for support, want to take part or just have a question about cycling in your area, she’d love to hear from you.
Hello! I’m Sharen, and I love cycling in Leicestershire – it’s a vibrant, diverse city where culture, community and green spaces come together. From parks and towpaths to lively neighbourhoods, there’s always something new to discover by bike.
The Big Bike Revival helps break down the barriers that stop people from cycling – things like stereotypes, financial pressures and a lack of confidence. Free sessions make cycling more accessible and inclusive for everyone.
I’m an active part of the Leicestershire community and involved in a number of local causes, so I know how powerful cycling can be in bringing people together and opening up new opportunities.
These events are welcoming, empowering and a great way to build confidence. You don’t need experience or special gear – just come as you are, and we’ll help you get started.
What’s happening near you
We’re working with friendly local organisations in Leicestershire 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 Leicestershire have benefited from The Big Bike Revival. Here’s one inspiring story of how cycling has made a difference.
Nainal: Rebuilding confidence to cycle again
After years of thinking about getting back on a bike, Leicester resident Nainal Shah finally made it happen thanks to The Big Bike Revival.
Although she’d cycled regularly in India – commuting to school and university – Nainal hadn’t ridden in the UK since moving here. The speed of traffic and narrow cycle lanes had knocked her confidence.
I’ve wanted to start again for years – for my health, to save money and because I missed it – but I just didn’t feel confident cycling alongside fast-moving traffic
When her workplace shared an email about a learn-to-ride session at Leicester Hospital, run by Cycopaths of Bradgate Heights as part of The Big Bike Revival, she saw it as the perfect opportunity.
After attending two sessions, Nainal received one-to-one support from Peter and Kevin at Cycopaths. They helped her build road confidence and even guided her on a trial commute from home to work.
They showed me I already had the skills – I just needed confidence on the road and a better understanding of cycling etiquette
Now, Nainal is planning to cycle to work three to four times a week.
Confidence. That’s the biggest impact. I’m ready to ride on my own now – and I know what I’m doing
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 Sharen Ravat – she will be happy to help you.
You’ll always be welcome, no matter how much or how little you want to be involved!
