Get Into Cycling - Beginners

Want to start riding a bike but don't know where to start? You've come to the right place

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Today is the best time to start cycling - with bike ownership dwarfing car ownership, congestion, health and environmental issues at the fore of minds in Westminster - reasons to start enjoying life on two wheels have never been so compelling.

With expert advice at every turn, it is easy to overcomplicate getting in to cycling for the first time while forgetting the greatest advantages of cycling - for pleasure and necessity.

Essentially, starting with any road worthy bike and a sense of direction is enough to start being a cyclist, although a few precautionary checks are advisable before you get going.

We've got advice on getting your old bike back into shape or, if you're in the market for a new one, essential advice on choosing the right bike for your needs. We've also got advice on what kit you need (and what you don't), plus information on where to ride and where to get quality cycle training if your skills are as rusty as your chain!

After your first few rides, you might want to take part in a Skyride or Skyride Local. These are events organised by British Cycling and Sky throughout the year and give a great chance to enjoy riding with other local cyclists in a safe environment, coordinated by experienced ride leaders.

If you're looking to try out different types of cycling - like commuting, mountain biking, road riding or BMX - then be sure to check out the specialist ‘get in to' sections. You'll find further bike buying, maintenance and riding tips, as well as where to get your cycling fix.

Other things to try

Get into Cycle Sport: A guide to the 6 main racing discipines of cycling, each with a helpful video and useful links.

Go-Ride Racing: British Cycling's programme of racing for young people new to the sport is an easy way to try cycle sport under the watchful eye of helpful coaches.

Go-Ride Holiday Sessions: These organised coaching session are for young people and are an ideal place to learn new skills from quality coaches in the school holidays.

Coaching: from coaching elite riders, though to club coaching, working with children and ride leadership.

Find a Club: Hook up with your local cyclists - search our 1000 plus affiliated clubs

Where to Ride: Ride guides to inspire and guide you