Thousands in Scotland set to get pedalling thanks to Cycling UK repair scheme

A new repair scheme aims to help get people on their bikes by fixing up old and neglected cycles. Cycling UK is working with bike shops across Scotland to provide free repair and maintenance, funded by the Scottish Government. 

The Scotland Cycle Repair Scheme will encourage people to get old bikes out of storage and back in use, as well as keeping well-used bikes pedalling smoothly and safely. 

The coronavirus crisis has had a huge impact, so it can be difficult for many people to pay for essential bike repairs right now. For people needing a helping hand to get their bike into shape, the scheme provides free repair and maintenance up to the value of £50.

Almost 100 bike shops, from Shetland to Dumfries, are already signed up to the scheme, with many more expected to join in the coming days. Accessing the scheme is simple – just contact your nearest participating bike shop or mechanic and get your repair booked in.

This scheme will help to fix the nation’s flat tyres, loose brakes and clunky gears to get people across Scotland on their bikes.

Suzanne Forup

Inclusivity and accessibility are at the heart of the scheme. All cycles are welcome, including adults’ and children’s bikes, e-bikes and non-standard cycles such as tandems, tricycles, handcycles and side-by-side cycles. People who use manual wheelchairs are also eligible to access free repairs.

Suzanne Forup, Cycling UK’s head of development for Scotland, said: 

“This scheme will help to fix the nation’s flat tyres, loose brakes and clunky gears to get people across Scotland on their bikes. We know that the coronavirus crisis has hit many people hard, so if you’d struggle to afford the repairs you need right now, this scheme has got you covered. 

“Encouraging people to cycle – whether that’s to get to work, pop to the shops or enjoy our beautiful countryside – helps their health, wellbeing and their pockets. During lockdown many people have discovered cycling again, or for the first time, and this scheme will help to keep that momentum going.

“We’ve had a great response from Scotland’s fantastic and friendly bike shops, so we’d encourage anyone who needs that extra bit of help to get involved and get cycling.” 

The cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity, Michael Matheson, said: 

“The Scotland Cycle Repair Scheme is a critical part of our Covid-19 response and a key element in our wider green recovery. This step will help encourage older bikes back onto our roads and onto the new temporary infrastructure local authorities have delivered through the Spaces for People initiative. 

“At the same time, this will keep the many people who have rediscovered cycling during the lockdown period on their bikes through the winter. I’m pleased to see the increases in cycling and I’m confident active travel will play a big part in helping to manage demand on our public transport network. 

“By choosing to walk, wheel or cycle you are leaving space on public transport for those that need it most. At the same time, active travel improves our air quality, protects our climate and brings profound benefits to our physical and mental health. Through this and future initiatives we will continue to support people in making greener travel choices as we work to build an Active Nation.”