Stevenage Cycling Hub is a community gem that has been fostering a love for cycling since its inception. Let’s dive into the story of this vibrant hub, its activities, and its impact on the community.
The Beginnings of Stevenage Cycling Hub
Stevenage Cycling Hub began its journey in 2018, initially functioning as a satellite of Watford Cycle Hub Ltd. Founded by Stevenage Borough Council (SBC) and Watford Cycle Hub, it aimed to promote cycling in the local area. However, by 2020, SBC decided to change providers. This led to the creation of Stevenage Cycling Hub CIC, spearheaded by passionate local cyclists Tina Walker, Bev Graham, and Paul Boielle, with initial assistance from Bill Hayes and Gary Spicer.
Starting during the partial lockdown of 2020 was no small feat. The challenges were immense, ranging from supply chain issues to the simple task of opening a business bank account. Despite these obstacles, the new company inherited a wealth of resources from the previous hub, including sales stock, hire cycle fleet, and donated cycles. SBC also provided grants to purchase essential tools, IT equipment, marketing materials, and even installed a mezzanine floor, internal door, and a much-needed toilet in the building.
Charitable Involvement and Affiliations
Stevenage Cycling Hub isn’t just about promoting cycling; it’s about giving back to the community. Tina Walker, one of the founders, chairs Cycling UK Stevenage, the local group of the Cycling UK Charity. While the hub itself isn’t a charity, it collaborates closely with various groups to support charitable work. This includes reducing the cost of training and refurbished cycles for local residents, making cycling accessible to more people.
The People Behind the Hub
Unlike many organisations, Stevenage Cycling Hub doesn’t operate on a membership basis. Instead, it has a dedicated team comprising three directors, one employee, and several cycle instructors who are paid hourly. Additionally, there are two volunteer coaches for the Go-Ride children’s club and a volunteer who manages the website. This team is the backbone of the hub, ensuring smooth operations and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Getting Involved with Stevenage Cycling Hub
So, how can you get involved with Stevenage Cycling Hub? The hub is your go-to place for all things cycling. They provide information on cycling routes, including commuting paths, maps, and organised rides suitable for various skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cyclist, there’s something for you.
The hub offers workshop services such as puncture repairs, and servicing and repairing bicycles (excluding hydraulics or electric bikes). They also accept and refurbish donated bikes, selling them back to the community at affordable prices. You can find these refurbished bikes on their website under the Shop tab.
In their small shop, you’ll find basic cycling supplies like inner tubes, repair kits, tyres, locks, lights, and lubricants. They also sell a selection of donated items, including clothes and bags.
For those looking to improve their cycling skills, the hub provides a wide range of training courses. These are available for all ages, starting from three years old with no upper age limit. Courses include Beginner Biking, Fun Skills, Roadside Repairs, and all Bikeability levels for children. Adults can benefit from group lessons and Roadside Repairs, with a limited number of one-to-one lessons or Bike Buddy sessions available based on staff availability.
The hub also has a limited fleet of hire cycles, including The Cargonaut, their e-cargo bike. These bikes are available for hire, but pre-booking is recommended to ensure availability, especially for the e-cargo bike, which needs charging before use.
The Best Part of the Hub
The best part of Stevenage Cycling Hub is undoubtedly its fantastic team. The instructors, along with mechanic/admin Andy, form a cohesive unit whose skills and personalities complement each other perfectly. This harmony is what makes the hub a welcoming and efficient place for all cyclists.
Supporting the Hub and the Community
The Stevenage community can support the hub in various ways. Simply popping in to see what the hub offers is a great start. Located in the beautiful Fairlands Valley Park, the hub is in the old boathouse by the smaller Millennium lake. It’s worth noting that the building might look closed even when it’s open, so don’t hesitate to check the opening hours, which are typically 9:30 am to 4 pm. During term time, the hub is open on Saturdays, and during school holidays, it’s usually open from Tuesday to Saturday.
The Future of Stevenage Cycling Hub
Looking ahead, Stevenage Cycling Hub aims to encourage the community to embrace active travel through cycling. The hub’s knowledge and skills will be crucial in achieving this goal. The team is well-equipped to coach and advise new commuters on making the most of their cycling trips, from carrying essentials like children or work items to coping with different weather conditions and navigating traffic.
The hub also aims to inspire both leisure and commuter cyclists to explore Stevenage’s extensive cycle network. They can help you discover hidden green spaces, interesting artworks, historic lanes, and architectural gems that you might miss when driving.
By connecting cyclists with local clubs and groups, Stevenage Cycling Hub helps individuals find like-minded people to share their cycling journeys. This sense of community and shared purpose is at the heart of the hub’s mission.
Conclusion
Stevenage Cycling Hub is more than just a place to get your bike fixed or buy cycling gear. It’s a community hub that promotes cycling as a way of life, encourages active travel, and supports local residents in their cycling endeavours. With a dedicated team, a range of services, and a strong community spirit, Stevenage Cycling Hub is making a significant impact on the local cycling scene. So, why not pop in and see what they have to offer? Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, there’s something for everyone at Stevenage Cycling Hub.
https://www.stevenagecyclinghub.co.uk
https://www.facebook.com/StevenageCyclingHub
