Free cycling activities in West Yorkshire
Welcome to The Big Bike Revival in West Yorkshire
This page is your go-to guide for The Big Bike Revival in West Yorkshire – how it works, what to expect, and how to take part. Whether you’re new to cycling or just need a little boost, there’s something for everyone.
Meet your local Cycling Development Officer
Your local Cycling Development Officer (CDO) is here to help you get started and feel confident on your bike.
Sarah Ibbotson supports people and communities across West Yorkshire to enjoy the benefits of cycling. From free bike checks and basic repairs to learn-to-ride sessions and friendly group rides, Sarah helps coordinate events and connect you with local cycling opportunities.
Got a question or ready to get involved? Sarah is happy to help – just get in touch.
Hello! I’m Sarah, and I love cycling in West Yorkshire – it’s a region full of contrasts and character. From canals winding through mill towns to gritty moorland roads, and from lush parks perfect for learning to ride to the Bradford & Leeds Cycle Superhighway, there’s something here for every type of cyclist.
Cycling is incredibly popular across our region – especially since the 2014 Tour de France Grand Départ sparked a whole new wave of interest and inspired more people to get pedalling.
The Big Bike Revival helps remove the barriers that stop people from cycling – whether that’s not having a bike, worrying about fitness, confidence, or how to fix a puncture.
We fund community organisations working at a grassroots level to support beginners, returners and anyone looking to build up their confidence in a safe, friendly way. Our sessions are inclusive and welcoming – with growing interest from many communities, particularly among South Asian women.
What I love most about running Big Bike Revival events is experiencing the joy that cycling brings – and how it can truly change lives. I get to hear inspiring stories and watch people grow in confidence through all that cycling can offer.
What’s happening near you
We’re working with friendly local organisations in West Yorkshire 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.
Watch The Big Bike Revival in action
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 is it 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.
Who’s running events in your area?
These free adult cycling sessions across West Yorkshire wouldn’t be possible without the brilliant local organisations we partner with to deliver The Big Bike Revival – passionate teams who go the extra mile to help their communities get cycling.
Click on the contact details below to find out when your next session is happening.
Meet Big Bike Revival partner Hop On (Yorkshire)
In this video, we hear from Fozia Naseem at Hop On (Yorkshire) in Bradford – a Big Bike Revival delivery partner working to make cycling more accessible and inclusive for everyone.
Fozia explains how their sessions cater to all abilities, from complete beginners to regular commuters, with a focus on welcoming people from the local South Asian community. But this work goes far beyond bikes – Hop On uses cycling as a way to break down social barriers, foster community integration, and support healthier lifestyles.
Their holistic approach includes education around family nutrition and wellbeing, and importantly, empowers participants to pass on their skills – inspiring a new wave of community leaders who can support others to ride and thrive.
Where are Big Bike Revival events happening in West Yorkshire?
Use the map below to see where activities are taking place across West Yorkshire. Click on a location to view contact details and find out when the next session is happening.
What people say
Since 2015, thousands of people across West Yorkshire have benefited from The Big Bike Revival. Meet Naz and Mostafa—two winners of Cycling UK’s Real Yellow Jersey award, which celebrates people using cycling to overcome challenges and inspire change in their communities.
Mostafa: The Real Yellow Jersey winner who rebuilt his life with a bike
When Mostafa arrived in the UK from Iran in 2024, he faced big challenges—no transport, little English, and few connections. But thanks to a free bike from St. Augustine’s Centre, through The Big Bike Revival, things began to change.
Cycling gave him more than just a way to get to college or the gym. It helped ease anxiety, connect him with his new community, and rediscover a lifelong love of riding. Now, he’s exploring Halifax, improving his health, and rebuilding his life with confidence and joy.
Watch how one bike helped Mostafa find hope, freedom and a fresh start.
Naz: The Real Yellow Jersey winner who used cycling to boost women’s mental health
Just two years ago, Naz Kosar couldn’t ride a bike. Now, she’s a qualified Bikeability instructor leading weekly sessions in Bradford—and inspiring over 30 women to cycle with confidence.
Through the Big Bike Revival and support from Hop On, Naz discovered a passion for cycling that’s helped ease her anxiety and brought joy and purpose to her life. She’s now using that energy to support other women, especially in the South Asian community, to overcome stigma, stay active and find their voice.
Watch how cycling helped Naz transform her life—and her community.
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 Sarah Ibbotson at [email protected] – she will be happy to help you.
Don’t be afraid to give it a go—Big Bike Revival events are a great way to boost your confidence, get active, meet friendly people and enjoy the outdoors. If you’re nervous, just have a chat with the organiser beforehand—they’ll help you feel welcome and supported from the moment you arrive
