With the UK departure of the Tour de France and the likes of Sir Bradley Wiggins taking to the track for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow starting this weekend, cycling fever is gripping the nation.

Cycling is certainly on the up with Sustrans’ recent report showing a 7% increase in usage of the National Cycle Network between 2012 and 2014.

As more people head out to cycle in the summer sun, we’ve come up with a few top tips for cycling in the summer heat.

l Wear sun cream. Cycling can be a sweaty business so best to put it on well in advance of setting off to let it soak in. Once a day sun creams can work well, but always take some out for top ups.

l Drinks lots. Most bikes have a water bottle mount and getting a cage and bottle means less to carry in your rucksack. You can buy cycling water bottles in up to 1litre sizes, which are handy for long days out.

l Plan stops. If you’re planning a longer ride, make sure you know where you can resupply on route, particularly with water. Most cafés will happily fill up your water bottle if you buy a cake.

l Wear glasses. Roaming through the country-side means you’ll also encounter its wildlife. There are lots of flies and insects around at this time of year, so wear glasses to protect your eyes.

l Fingerless gloves. Gloves protect your hands if you have an accident, so fingerless gloves will help keep you cooler whilst protecting your hands.

l Report overgrown vegetation. Cycle paths can easily get invaded with overgrown plants at this time of year, so report this to Swindon Borough Council online at www.swindon.gov.uk If you’re looking for an outing this summer why not get involved in a cycling event. To celebrate the end of le Tour de France, we are holding a fantastic, free family fun day. Come along to Coate Water Park 11am-2pm and join in with all of our free cycling activities on Sunday.

With free face painting, crafts, self-led ride, Dr Bike maintenance and a smoothie maker, there’s plenty to keep your family entertained. We’ll also have lots of free information and bike security marking, to help you keep cycling safely. For more information contact swindon@sustrans.org.uk

 

  • For more information on any of Sustrans’ local work, email swindon@sustrans.org.uk. Sustrans is a leading UK charity enabling people to travel by foot, bike or public transport for more of the journeys we make every day.