It's nearly Christmas and we're rapidly approaching the end of 2009, so with that in mind we've brought you some Top 5 lists looking back over the achievements of the past year and forward to an exciting 2010. We've also got some top winter cycling tips and ideas for Christmas presents too.
If you haven't already seen it, why new check out our new online journey planner and plot a nice cycle ride to work off that Christmas lunch?
Don't forget to forward this e-mail on to friends, family or colleagues that you think might want to make the pledge to cycle more and get one other person to do the same.
Thanks and Merry Christmas from the Cycle Exeter Team
Highlights:
Look what we've achievedTips for winter cycling
Presents to get you pedalling
And next year...
Top 5 achievements in 2009
- More sections of the Exe Estuary cycle trail open and new routes in Exeter
- 10,000+ people came to watch the Tour Series city centre cycle event
- 1,700 more children received Bikeability and nearly 100 instructors were trained
- The Freedom of Your City campaign was launched - over 1,000 pledges so far and an improved, new look website
- New signage went up at the University of Exeter to encourage even more cycling on campus
Top 5 winter cycling tips
- Make your own assessment of cycling conditions before starting your journey and allow extra time
- Brighten Up - use lights. Bright clothing and reflective strips may make you more visible
- Cycle at a sensible speed as it could be icy, wet and slippery and be aware that most roads and paths are not gritted
- Ensure your bike is in good working order - especially check brakes and consider using different tyres for different conditions
- Cycling soon gets you warm but make sure you are wearing suitable clothing to prevent getting cold and wet
Top 5 Christmas present ideas
- Cycle to your Heart's Content adult cycling course, which is only £20 for 8 week course and includes bike hire. Our courses are ideal for someone who wishes to start cycling or isn't confident on a bike - go to our cycle training pages for a booking form
- Child seat, pull-along or bike trailer - get some colour in your cheeks and discover the joys of family cycling along Exeter's traffic free cycle paths
- Gloves - keep those hands warm so you can brake and change gears easily
- Reflective rucksack cover - FREE from Cycle Exeter!
- A bike. You can never have too many! You don't have to spend a lot but leave the supermarket for food shopping and ask your friendly, local bike shop for advice instead.
Top 5 events for 2010
- The Tour Series is coming back to Exeter on 31st May!
- More children across Devon will receive Bikeability training
- Another section of the Exe Estuary cycle trail between Exton and Lympstone will open
- The launch of a Cycle Friendly Employer competition
- Even more traffic free cycle paths!
