Would you describe yourself as a Rusty Rider?
Or more specifically somebody who used to ride a bike, but has fallen out of love with two wheels .
You are not alone. There are a lot of reasons for people to leave the bikes in the shed.
There is no doubt that we are still a very car centric nation,certain pockets of the country are evolving such as London but in places like Marlow, the car is still definitely King.
A car that has morphed into truck like proportions and roads that have become peppered with potholes.
So our roads and a hostile environment for cyclists definitely play a big part in peoples decision to retire from two wheels.
Other reasons include a fear of theft and of course, the great British weather.
As valid as any of these reasons are, the reality is the longer somebody has abstained the more difficult it is to get back in the saddle .
Very often I have noticed that when people get in their 50s they decide that that’s it for them, and would I please buy their bikes? The kids have grown up, we don't need the clutter.
I generally refuse the offer, because I have seen how cycling benefits people in this critical age group right until the 80s or even 90s. The Fittest people in old age are those still riding their bikes. Not necessarily completing hundreds of miles but just using their bike for journeys in town rather than using their car
Turning your back on the bike is like surrendering your body to decline.
It is well reported that cycling reduces the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease by 45%, boosts mental health and provides low impact muscle strength workout.
Not only that, but it’s cost-effective, environmentally friendly and faster than using your car town. We meet people when riding and we have conversations with those in our community.
So the question is, can you afford not to cycle?
Very often the fears that people have become amplified and the risks they perceive exaggerated.
We want to help you dip your toe back into cycling.
Our Rusty Riders bike rides are designed to get you riding again with a group of like-minded people for a short pootle around town, followed by a coffee and a chat at the Ark cafe .
This is hosted by Claire, Sian and Olwen, local ladies who use their bike every day for trips into town.
There is no charge for this, and even the coffee is free .
If you have your own bike that you want to use, bring it along and we can check it out, if you want to borrow a bike you can, or if you’d like to try an electric bike for the trip that’s no problem.
We have four dates starting on the 25th of March going through into May.
Simply book at the link below and we look forward to seeing you at the shop
