Cycling can be a fun, quick and cheap way to travel around Leeds, and it’s also good for your health.
Leeds has a network of cycle routes linking different neighbourhoods to the city centre.
Many of the main roads in and out of Leeds city centre have cycle lanes or paths to help make cycling safer. They usually have a symbol of a bike painted on them.
More information about cycling in Leeds is on the Leeds City Council website, including maps:
City Connect is a project which aims to encourage people to travel by bike. It has a useful cycle map to help you plan cycling journeys in Leeds and across West Yorkshire:
Staying safe on a bicycle
Traffic can get busy in Leeds, and although many people choose to cycle, you should be prepared and take care to make sure you stay safe. Here are some tips:
- Read the Highway Code for rules and advice cyclists should follow: Rules for Cyclists
- Cycle training courses are a good idea to help you practice, become confident and learn how to be safe. Find out more about training for children and adults: Cycle Leeds
- Use cycle lanes and paths wherever possible
- Don’t ride through red traffic lights and don’t cycle on the pavement unless it’s a cycle path
- Wear a helmet and hi-visibility or reflective clothing to help you be seen
- Use lights in bad weather or at night
- Look after your bike – keep it clean, make sure tyres are well inflated and have a good tread. There are lots of bike shops in Leeds that can service your bike for you.
Getting a cheap bicycle
Leeds Bike Mill are a not-for-profit organization who provide affordable second hand bicycles and deliver a range of training courses in bike maintenance.
Fixing your bike
The Pedallers Arms Bike Co-op will help you to learn how to repair your bike for free at one of their drop-ins. (They ask for a donation but will let you off if you’ve genuinely not got any money).
