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Above: 2007 - The author's son takes his new Christmas present on a ride at Llandegla; the start of a long term relationship with bikes.

FLAT PACK BIKE? Get it checked by an expert: If you’ve got a new bike via mail order, it’s likely to have arrived 80 percent assembled, leaving you to tackle the last few assembly tasks. If you’ve any doubt about your bike mechanic abilities, we strongly recommend that you take the bike to your local bike shop for a check over. It will cost you a few pounds but could save your life. Here's a handy list of ACT registered bike shops If you’d like to learn more about Bike Maintenance, we can help.

Getting a new bike for Christmas is often the start of a special relationship. For children, a new bike is an escape vehicle – a way to expand your horizons and explore your neighbourhood.

For adults, a new bike for Christmas is often the catalyst to kick start a healthier New Year and unlock a fitter, happier you.. Young or not so young, British Cycling can help you get the best out of your new bike and ensure that your new wheels don’t end up rusting in the shed. Because here at British Cycling, we think that a bike’s for life, not just for Christmas.

So you’ve got a new bike, now what?

	Learn how to look after your bike – beginner, intermediate and advanced workshops
	Get some Cycle Training – nationally recognised Bikeability training for children and adults
	Join a club – we’ve got well over 1000 British Cycling affiliated clubs throughout the country
	Want to ride to work? We’ve got hints, tips and advice on how to get the most out of your commute
	Routes and Rides - Discover Britain by bike – we can help you and your new bike discover our beautiful countryside - on an off-road rides for all abilities.
	Learn local routes and meet new people on our fun, family friendly Sky Ride Local rides. Or try our fun and informal Breeze women-only bike rides.
	Have a go at racing - Go-Ride-Racing for young people – fun racing in safe, traffic free club environments. Go-Race – entry level racing for adults
	Learn more about different types of cycling – there’s a whole world of cycling out there. Find out about road racing, mountain biking, track racing, cyclosportives and more.
	Members get more out of their cycling – insurance, legal advice and great benefits. Become a member and save on bike accessories, cycle insurance and more.

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