Minister sets the wheels in motion for National Bike Week

MINISTER for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross, has launched National Bike Week, a Government funded series of events to encourage the nation to do more cycling.

National Bike Week will take place from June 10-18, marking the 200th anniversary of the invention of the bicycle. Speaking at the launch, Minister Ross said that National Bike Week will remind us of the fun and freedom that cycling provides and the health and wellness benefits that accrue. 

“We have seen significant increases in the numbers cycling for leisure and for commuting purposes over the past few years and we need to see that continue,” he said. “Bike Week plays an important role in reminding those who don’t currently cycle just what they’re missing out on.”

Minister Ross added: “The variety of events organised by the local authorities and cycling groups around the country shows huge imagination and creativity. I would encourage people to give cycling a go during Bike Week, particularly those who have a short journey to school or work, it can often be as quick to cycle as it is to drive in our cities.”

 Cities, towns and villages throughout the island of Ireland will be hosting hundreds of cycling and bike-themed events in an effort to promote the health, cost saving and environmental benefits of cycling.

Dublin’s Custom House Quays will see the arrival of Ireland’s first ever street velodrome on Sunday, June 11, with ancillary events in Smithfield and then Dun Laoghaire later in the week. 

The week will also include family fun cycles throughout the country, historic bike tours, tandem cycles for those with sensory disabilities, midsummer’s night cycles, family cargo bike cycles and a host of other bike-themed events aimed at all ages, abilities and interests.

Cycle safety skills and activities for children and adults and free bike repair workshops are also among the events lined up this year. National Bike Week seeks to promote cycling throughout Ireland, particularly for journeys of 5km or less in urban areas.

Last month, a report revealed how cycling can increase longevity and can cut almost in half the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, when all other variables are taken into account.

Event information for this year’s National Bike Week can be found on www.bikeweek.ie