Hull City Council is set to host a series of free training and guided ride sessions.
It is aimed to help people learn the necessary skills, boost their confidence and encourage people to get out cycling more. The series, called City Explorer, will be delivered by qualified instructors from First Step Cycle.
Two trial events will be held on West Park as part of Bike Week, which runs from Monday, June 9, until Sunday, June 15. These two sessions will take place this weekend, on Saturday, June 14 and 15.
Councillor Mark Ieronimo, cabinet portfolio holder for transport and infrastructure at Hull City Council, said: “The council is delighted to be working in partnership with First Step Cycle to deliver the City Explorer series over the summer and that we can trial these during Bike Week – the UK’s biggest celebration of cycling.
“Those attending these initial sessions will help us shape the kind of experience that people will find most useful in supporting them to choose cycling, whether it be for leisure, to run local errands or for their daily commute.”
Louis Kirk, business development director at First Step Sports Group, said: “Our beginner off-road cycle training is the perfect first step for any less confident cyclist. It builds the core skills and confidence they need in a fun, safe environment – so when it’s time to explore the city, they’re more than ready.”
Each day will feature two sessions, which are as follows:
Become City Explorer Ready: Beginner Off-Road Cycle Training
From 9:30-10:45am
This session builds on essential cycling skills and aims to help people gain confidence as well as control before tackling city routes. They are aimed at adults 18+, and will help with:
- teaching fundamental bike handling skills in a fun, supportive setting
- improving balance, braking, steering and basic gear use
- introducing riders to off-road terrain, including parks and light trails
- building confidence for more advanced cycling sessions
- encouraging a love for outdoor activity and physical confidence.
Each session includes:
- safety checks: helmets, bikes and personal readiness
- warm-up games to build confidence on the bike
- skills training: stopping, starting, cornering and riding over varied terrain
- fun, trail-based challenges and mini adventure rides
- a debrief and encouragement for next steps in cycling progression.
Participants must bring a roadworthy bike and helmet (or use provided equipment) as well as wear comfortable clothing, suitable for outdoor activity.
(Image: Hull City Council)
City Explorer
From 11am – 12:30pm
This sessions aims to help build confidence while navigating real road environments. It combines safe travel habits and independent cycling by:
- developing practical road cycling skills in real city environments
- promoting awareness of cycling infrastructure (cycle lanes, crossings, signage)
- encouraging active travel as a healthy, sustainable mode of transport
- supporting teamwork, independence and confidence.
Each session will include:
- a safety briefing and route overview
- a group ride through planned city routes
- practical road skills: signalling, navigating junctions, and group cycling etiquette.
Participants must bring a roadworthy bike and helmet (or equipment can be provided, on request). High-visibility vests are provided during the session.
To book a place on the session of your choice, visit: https://booking.firststep-sports.co.uk/project/5925
If you require a cycle or equipment for one of the sessions, call (01482) 249066 or email: Gabriel@firststep-sports.co.uk
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