Sport Cycling in manchester

IS INDOOR CYCLING AVAILABLE IN MANCHESTER?
Yes! Manchester is home to the world renowned HSBC National Cycling Centre. The Centre was Britain's first indoor Olympic cycling track, and since it opened in 1994, has become one of the World's finest and fastest board tracks. The track is in constant use seven days a week and, thanks to the comprehensive programme of activities for all levels of ability, it is one of the busiest in the world. Regular users of the track include members of the very successful GB track cycling team, such as Jason & Laura Kenny, as well as local schoolchildren and track enthusiasts.

WHAT IS A VELODROME?
In its most common form, a velodrome is an embanked cycling track. The track, most commonly constructed of wood if indoors, often features 45-degree embankments on each end and is 250 meters in circumference. They can vary in distance circumference (between 150 and 500 meters), the degree of the banked ends can fluctuate and there are both indoor and outdoor options.

IS VELODROME TRACK CYCLING AVAILABLE FOR BEGINNERS?
The HSBC National Cycling Centre track in Manchester is in constant use seven days a week and, thanks to the comprehensive programme of activities for all levels of ability, from elite athletes to novices, the track offers sessions to anyone seeking to experience this exciting sport. Novices riders will be coached in stages on how to access the track safely and ride the track amongst other solo riders. Once you've completed a few Tasters, and would love to carry on, you may consider moving through the Centre’s follow up programme known as Accreditation Stage 1 Session, helping you to further develop your skills and techniques. Once passed, you will then be invited to attend Regular Riders and Stage 2 as an Intermediate rider.

If you're interested in signing up to a Taster session, or signed up already and want to know more, the Centre has provided some information for you to read before your first session and also answer any other queries you may have around track cycling. Visit here to find out more.

HOW DO I BOOK? 
For full information on booking, visit the website or contact the centre directly on 0161 223 2244. 

Where can I cycle in Manchester?
If you’re unsure of where to cycle, Komoot have put together a comprehensive list of cycle routes in and around the city. Check it out!

What is Road Cycling? Simply put, road cycling can be defined as anyone choosing to ride their bike on a paved surface  such as a tarmac road or street whether the purpose is for commuting (which we will detail later), exercise, racing, touring or recreating. However firstly, we’re going to focus on the type of road cycling associated with long distance, endurance riding.
Due to the long distances, you’ll need to ensure you come prepared. Essential items include:

• Water bottle – Ideally with frame mounted cage to carry it in and easy access when riding.
• Helmet – To protect the head in case of an accident
• Reflective clothing - To increase your visibility to vehicles on the road (Especially if riding in low light conditions).
• Front and Rear Lights - To increase your visibility to vehicles on the road.
• Bike Lock – If you plan to stop somewhere on your journey and need to secure the bike.

If you’re planning to road cycle regularly, you may also wish to invest in the following gear:

• Cycling Shorts – To reduce chafing and saddle sores
• Cycling Gloves – To reduce blistering and to protect your hands in the instance you fall off the bike
• Cycling Shoes – To reduce cramping, blistering and pain
• Seat Bag – To carry spare items such as inner tube, multi-tools, pumps and personal items.
•  

Moreover, you may want to read up on how to fix common mechanical issues such as punctures and broken chains.

Is road cycling suitable for beginners?
Yes! If you’re considering taking up road cycling, but feeling somewhat intimidated or stuck for how to start, we’re here to help.

Due to the often long travel distances involved with road cycling, the equipment required to get involved differs somewhat from a standard shop-bought bicycle. It is completely understandable why this could be off-putting to those thinking about picking it up, for in needing to be as light as possible, typical road bikes include features such as drop handlebars and skinny tyres, and as a result, a slightly increased price tag compared to typical bikes. However if you’re just starting, any bike will be fine, the minimum requirement is to simply hit the road and begin pedalling! After all, we’re here to help ease you in and provide some useful information and tips you may not know about.

Can I road cycle with friends?
While some cyclists may prefer to go it solo, cycling can also be a very social activity. Therefore if you have friends who are also interested, why not bring them along for the journey? Cycling with others has many benefits, from providing motivation to keep going, to slipstreaming each other to help ease effort whilst increasing speed, to simply offering the chance to catch-up with one another.

Furthermore, you may also be interested in joining a cycling group. Cycle groups can be a great way to meet like-minded individuals, make new friends and find new cycling routes, helping you to squeeze the absolute most out of your newfound hobby!

To find a cycling group near you, visit the Find Activities page on our website.

What about cycling to work?
As mentioned earlier, many people in Manchester are now cycling to work, discovering the immense physical, mental, financial and environmental benefits cycling to work brings. If you’re interested in cycling to work, read on...

CYCLING TO WORK
 
Why cycle to work?
One of the most common justifications for not exercising is that of ‘lack of time’. If you, like many people, work in a sedentary office job, finding time to squeeze in some exercise can be often difficult. Therefore being able to incorporate exercise into your commute will allow you to burn calories, become healthier and improve your overall fitness whilst travelling to your place of work. A 15 minute commute to work each way via bicycle ensures you meet the recommended guidelines for 150 minutes a week of exercise without ever having to lace up your pair or running shoes or fill your gym bag. By cycling to work, your free time is then yours to do as you please.

Furthermore, cycling to work can also dramatically reduce your carbon footprint on both a local and global level, for cycling to your place of work will help contribute to cleaner, better air where you live and consequently reduce the level of pollution impacting the climate globally. Studies have shown that if all commutes in England under five miles were completed by bike instead of car, it would save a collective 44,000 tonnes of CO2 every week, the equivalent of heating 17,000 houses. Moreover, It is important to note that for the same amount of materials and energy required to make a car, it requires roughly five percent of that to manufacture a bike. Therefore cycling regularly, both to work or recreationally both has a positive impact both to you, and the wider local and global community.

Finally, it is important to express the financial benefits of choosing to cycle to work, as opposed to driving or taking public transport. Other than the purchase of the bicycle itself, cycling costs little to no further money. If you own a car, Cycling to work the amount of fuel you need to buy will decrease or stop, you’ll save on car tax, insurance, parking fees and an array of other expenses relating to owning and using a motor vehicle. If you take public transport to work, you will of course no longer have to pay for tickets, wait for arrival or squeeze onto busy trains, trams and buses during rush hour.
 
How do I start?
In an effort to increase and incentivise the number of cyclists on Britain’s roads, the government announced it’s ‘Cycle to Work Scheme’ for employers in 2019. The cycle to work scheme makes up part of the Governments ‘Green Transport Plan’, a plan aiming to cut congestion on the roads, improve the health of the nation and have a positive impact on the environment.

Who can apply?
The cycle to work scheme is known as a 'salary sacrifice arrangement', meaning to partake in the scheme you must:

• Be aged 16 or over
• Earn at least minimum wage after the salary sacrifice has been taken from your pay
• Be paid and taxed via Pay As You Earn (PAYE) system

What is it?
The scheme enables you to get a significant discount on cycling gear via your employer whatever your requirements are, whilst also spreading the cost. For example, on top of discounts for the bikes themselves, you can also be discounted for:

• Safety accessories (helmets, bike lights, reflectors, mirrors, bells, locks...)
• Essential accessories (clothing and shoes, mudguards, panniers, backpacks, child safety seats…)
• Components and parts (pumps, puncture repair kits, cycle tool kits, tyre sealant, wheels…)

The money is then paid back gradually via a deduction from your wage.

For full information about the government scheme, click here.
 
How do I find cycle routes in my area?
For more information on cycle lanes and routes, the excellent Journey Planner on the Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) website contains route planners, to find your way from anywhere in Manchester, as well as downloadable timetables.

Mountain Biking (MTB)

Can I go Mountain Biking in Manchester?
Yes! There are plenty of spots to cycle in and around Manchester! Why not check out the activity finder below or visit the MCRactive Find Places page here to find out what's avilable in your local area. Alternatively, Komoot have put together a fantastic and comprehensive list of cycle routes in and around the city. Make sure to check it out!

What is Mountain Biking? Mountain biking, also known as MTB, commonly refers to act of riding a bicycle off-road. As opposed to road cycling, mountain biking often involves rough and uneven terrain, obstacles and steep winding trails. Mountain Biking offers you escape from the real world, thrusting you into the wonderful natural landscape of parks, woodlands and forests. Types of MTB can include traditional trail riding, downhill biking and trials biking.


Is it suitable for beginners? Yes! There are multiple disciplines of mountain biking appropriate for a vast array of skill levels. Whether you are a complete novice or an experienced biker, there are an abundance of fantastic bike trails to match your ability. The more comfortable you become riding off-road the more tricky the routes you can take!
 
Will I need to bring anything with me? Due to the long distances, you’ll need to ensure you come prepared. Essential items include:

• Water bottle – Ideally with frame mounted cage to carry it in and easy access when riding.
• Helmet – To protect the head in case of an accident
• Reflective clothing - To increase visibility to pedestrians and other cyclists (Especially in low light conditions).
• Bike Lock – If you plan to stop somewhere on your journey and need to secure the bike.

If you’re planning to mountain bike regularly, you may also wish to invest in the following gear:

• Cycling Shorts – To reduce chafing and saddle sores
• Cycling Gloves – To reduce blistering and to protect your hands in the instance you fall off the bike
• Cycling Shoes – Waterproof shoes with good grips to reduce cramping, blistering and pain
• Seat Bag – To carry spare items such as inner tube, multi-tools, pumps and personal items.
•  

Moreover, you may want to read up on how to fix common mechanical issues such as punctures and broken chains.

Can I Mountain Bike with friends? While some cyclists may prefer to go it solo, cycling can also be a very social activity. Therefore if you have friends who are also interested, why not bring them along for the journey? Cycling with others has many benefits, from providing motivation to keep going to slipstreaming each other to help ease the effort whilst increasing your overall speed.

Furthermore, you may want to join a mountain biking club/group. Groups can be a great way to meet like-minded individuals, make new friends and find new off-road trails, helping you to squeeze the absolute most out of your newfound hobby.

If you’re interested in going Mountain Biking and want to get involved, or wish to find a mountain biking group near you, visit the Find Activities page on our website.

Where can I go Downhill Mountain Biking in Manchester?
If you’re interested in Trials Biking, and want to get involved, why not check out the activity finder below or visit the MCRactive Find Places page here. Alternatively, Komoot have put together a fantastic and comprehensive list of cycle routes in and around the city. Make sure to check it out!

What is it?
Downhill MTB is a discipline of high speed mountain biking practiced on steep, off-road terrain commonly featuring a multitude of jumps, drops, rocks and obstacles.

Is it suitable for beginners?
More in common with a rally car, Downhill Bikes often come equipped with huge frames, pro suspensions and hydraulic brakes to cope with the intense speeds and difficult terrain. Despite requiring its riders to possess incredible skill, knowledge and confidence, Downhill MTB is a fantastic experience and while the dangers involved may understandably put some people off, its perfect for those of you in the hunt for a new adrenaline rush. Beginners therefore are course always welcome, but make sure you are prepared for both the time, dangers and expenses required to get involved.

Do I need anything else?
For Downhill Mountain Biking, the dangers of the sport necessitate a number of extra pieces of equipment if you’re thinking of getting involved. Essential items include:

• Full Face Helmet – To protect the head in case of a high speed accident on rough and uneven terrain.
• Goggles – To provide eye protection from loose earth, rocks and mud that may flick up into your face.
• Cycling Gloves – To reduce blistering and to protect your hands in the instance you fall off the bike
• Cycling Shoes – Waterproof shoes with good grips to reduce cramping, blistering and pain
• Cycling Shorts – To reduce chafing and saddle sores
• Knee and Elbow Pads/Armour – To protect you in case of a fall (particularly necessary if you’re a beginner)

Moreover, you may want to read up on how to fix common mechanical issues such as punctures and broken chains.

Where can I go Trials Biking in Manchester?
If you’re interested in Trials Biking, and want to get involved, why not check out the activity finder below or visit the MCRactive Find Places page here.

What isTrials Biking/MTB Trials?
Mountain Bike Trials, sometimes referred to as observed trials, is an MTB discipline where the aim of the rider is to navigate a tricky obstacle course, both natural and artificial, without setting foot to ground.

Is it suitable for beginners?
Offering an extreme test to an individual’s control over their bike, Trials requires a great deal of practice and knowledge of the sport and is therefore more tailored to individuals with more experience of MTB. Moreover, the equipment involved is very bespoke and expensive. Trial bikes commonly require thick tires, robust brakes, low gears, wide handlebars, lightweight frames and characteristic frame geometry with no recognisable seat. Therefore whilst the sport is of course open to accepting beginners, be prepared for both the time and expenses required to get involved.
 
Do I need anything else?
For Trials biking, the dangers of the sport necessitate a number of extra pieces of equipment if you’re thinking of getting involved. Essential items include:

• Full Face Helmet – To protect the head in case of a high speed accident on rough and uneven terrain.
• Goggles – To provide eye protection from loose earth, rocks and mud that may flick up into your face.
• Cycling Gloves – To reduce blistering and to protect your hands in the instance you fall off the bike
• Cycling Shoes – Waterproof shoes with good grips to reduce cramping, blistering and pain
• Cycling Shorts – To reduce chafing and saddle sores
• Knee and Elbow Pads/Armour – To protect you in case of a fall (particularly necessary if you’re a beginner)

Moreover, you may want to read up on how to fix common mechanical issues such as punctures and broken chains.

BMX (Indoor and Outdoor)

Is there anywhere to ride BMX in Manchester?
Yes! Manchester has a plethora of spots to ride BMX, if you’ve got your bike and need somewhere to go ride, why not check out the activity finder below or visit the MCRactive Find Places page here

, containing a comprehensive list of BMX parks in your local area across Manchester. 

What is it? 
BMX, short for Bicycle Motocross, is a form of off-road cycling usually involving stunt riding and racing. Whilst Freestyle BMX focuses on stunts either in skateparks, street or dirt, BMX Racing often incorporates a combination of both stunts and racing and takes place on indoor and outdoor tracks.
 
Is it suitable for beginners? 
Yes absolutely! Freestyle BMX is especially suitable for beginners as all it requires is a bike and somewhere to go ride. BMX bikes can be bought from most bike stores and are relatively inexpensive too, especially if you’re new to the sport and simply just want to practice and improve your skills.

Do I need anything else? 
For BMX, the dangers of the sport necessitate a number of extra pieces of equipment if you’re thinking of getting involved. Essential items include:

• Helmet – To protect the head in case of a high speed accident.
• Cycling Gloves – To reduce blistering and to protect your hands in the instance you fall off the bike
• Cycling Shoes – Waterproof shoes with good grips to reduce cramping, blistering and pain
• Knee and Elbow Pads/Armour – To protect you in case of a fall (particularly necessary if you’re a beginner)

Moreover, you may want to read up on how to fix common mechanical issues such as punctures and broken chains.

Para-Cycling

Is Para-Cycling cycling available in Manchester to beginners?
Yes! The HSBC National Cycling Centre track in Manchester is in constant use seven days a week and, thanks to the comprehensive programme of activities for all levels of ability, from elite athletes to novices, the track offers sessions to anyone seeking to experience this exciting sport including the SIMTECH Fuelling Disability Cycling sessions. See more information about the session here.

What is it? 
Para-cycling is a category of cycling specifically modified for cyclists with disabilities. The competitions comprise four groups of handicaps (handcycling, people with cerebral palsy, blind and visually impaired riders and locomotor disabilities) and a total of 14 functional categories for men and women in all the age categories defined by the governing body for Para-Cycling known as Union Cycliste Internationale or ‘UCI’. Depending on their functional abilities, each rider is then allocated to a suitable category. Para-Cycling takes place both on the track and on the road for a total of seven events. See list below:

• Road Events - Road race, Individual time trial, Handcycling team relay
• Track Events - Tandem sprint, Team sprint, 500m time trial or kilometre time trial, Individual pursuit, Scratch race

What equipment is used? 
Road cyclists compete on handcycles, trikes, tandem bikes or bikes depending on their condition. On the track, cyclists compete on either tandem bikes or bikes.

• C1-C5 - For athletes with cerebral palsy, amputees and other conditions who can ride a bike.
•  
• T1-T2 (Trike) - For athletes with cerebral palsy, neurological conditions or other athletes who are unable to ride a bike.
•  
• B - For visually impaired cyclists who compete on tandem bikes with a pilot.
•  
• H1-H5 (Handcycle) - For riders with impairments affecting either both legs or a combination of the upper and lower limbs (amputees, paraplegics and tetraplegics)

Where can I cycle?
For Para-Cycling on a track, among the leading velodromes in Great Britain is the National Cycling Centre in Manchester, the home of the Great Britain Cycling Team where the para-cycling squad do most of their training. Road cycling can take place on roads up and down the country and there are also a number of dedicated closed-road circuits in operation in the UK. The Centre was Britain's first indoor Olympic cycling track, and since it opened in 1994, has become one of the World's finest and fastest board tracks. The track is in constant use seven days a week and, thanks to the comprehensive programme of activities for all levels of ability, it is one of the busiest in the world. From elite athletes to novices, the track offers sessions to anyone seeking to experience this exciting sport. Regular users of the track include members of the very successful GB track cycling team, such as Jason & Laura Kenny, as well as local schoolchildren and track enthusiasts.

Is there a skills progression pathway?
Yes, please see the Accreditation page on the National Cycling Centre website here for more information

NATIONAL CYCLING CENTRE

Manchester is the home of British Cycling and The National Cycling Centre (NCC). Almost all cycling disciplines can be accessed within the city itself – which is amazing! Take a look at the many opportunities the National Cycling Centre has to offer: http://www.nationalcyclingcentre.com/

We have two BMX tracks in the city, an indoor track within the National Cycling Centre as well as an outdoor track in Platt Fields Park which is located in Fallowfield, South Manchester. More information can be found: http://www.nationalcyclingcentre.com/bmx/

For more information on the Track cycling offer in the velodrome: http://www.nationalcyclingcentre.com/track/  

For information about Clayton Vale Mountain Bikes Trails & Philips Park Mountain Bike Skills zone: http://www.nationalcyclingcentre.com/mtb/the-mtb-trails-skills-zone/

Paracycling/Disabled Riders opportunities: http://www.nationalcyclingcentre.com/track/disabled-riders-paracycling/


BRITISH CYCLING

British Cycling have an offer called Go-Ride young people to be involved in clubs: https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/go-ride

MCRactive support our cycling clubs in the city – assisting with club development and funding opportunities.

For more information about different events/races from British Cycling: https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/events?keywords=&postcode=manchester&distance=
 

RECREATIONAL CYCLING

We have many other recreational cycling ideas across the city, we'll be revealing this soon so stay tuned!