Free Inclusive Winter Cycling Sessions in York

Remember that brilliant feeling of freedom when you first learned to ride a bike? The wind in your hair, the world whizzing by, it’s a bit of magic. But for some people, getting on a standard two-wheeler just isn’t an option. Whether it’s due to a disability, a health condition, or just needing a bit more support, that feeling of cycling freedom can seem out of reach.

But what if it didn’t have to be? A fantastic local organisation in York is on a mission to change that, offering a chance for everyone to get pedalling, whatever their age or ability. And the best bit? It’s completely free.

So what’s this about free cycling sessions in York?

Right now, and running all the way until 10th March 2026, a series of free indoor cycling sessions are happening in York. These aren't your typical spin classes; they're something much more special. They are being run by Get Cycling CIC, a local not-for-profit group, inside the warm and welcoming Burnholme Sports Hall. The sessions are part of a wider initiative called the Pathways to Pedals programme, which is all about breaking down barriers and making cycling accessible for absolutely everyone in the community.

The idea is simple: provide a safe, supportive space where people can try out different types of bikes and discover a way of cycling that works for them. These weekly sessions, which take place on Tuesday afternoons, are the perfect opportunity for anyone who has ever thought, "I wish I could ride a bike." Now, they can. The team at Get Cycling CIC has a huge amount of experience in helping people find their pedalling feet, making these sessions a brilliant way to explore the world of inclusive cycling.

But what is ‘inclusive cycling’ anyway?

That’s a great question. When you think of a bike, you probably picture the standard two-wheeled version. But there's a whole world of different cycles out there designed for all sorts of needs. Inclusive cycling is all about using these amazing machines to make sure nobody is left out. The team has a massive demo range of what they call inclusive cycles, and attendees at the Burnholme Sports Hall sessions can try them all.

So what kind of bikes are on offer?

• Adapted trikes: These are brilliant for anyone who needs a bit more stability than a two-wheeler can offer. They are sturdy, comfortable, and give the rider loads of confidence.

• Tandems: Not just for cheesy rom-coms! A tandem bike allows two people to ride together, which is perfect for someone with a visual impairment to ride with a guide, or for a parent and child to team up.

• Other specialist cycles: There are bikes you can pedal with your hands, recumbent cycles where you can recline as you ride, and many others designed to support people with a wide range of disabilities or additional needs.

These specialist cycles are the key to unlocking independence for so many. It’s not about what a person can't do; it's about finding the right bit of kit to help them do what they want to do. And that’s what these inclusive cycling sessions are all about.

A warm welcome and a helping hand

Walking into a new place can sometimes be a bit nerve-wracking, especially if you’re trying something for the first time. The team at Get Cycling CIC totally gets that. They’ve made sure the atmosphere at the Burnholme Sports Hall is calm, welcoming, and completely focused on having fun. There’s no pressure and no competition, just friendly faces and plenty of encouragement.

An experienced team is always on hand to chat with each person, figure out what they need, and match them with the perfect cycle. They'll help everyone get comfortable and build their confidence at their own pace. Because the sessions are indoors, nobody has to worry about the unpredictable British weather or navigating busy roads. It’s a completely safe and accessible space to just give it a go. For families, it’s a chance to see a loved one experience the joy of cycling, perhaps for the very first time. The focus is purely on enjoyment and discovering a new sense of freedom.

More than just a bike ride

These sessions offer so much more than just a bit of exercise. For the people who take part, the impact can be huge. It’s about building self-esteem, gaining more independence, and improving overall wellbeing. The project has already seen some fantastic results, having welcomed groups from brilliant local organisations like Parkinson’s UK and Applefields School.

For someone living with Parkinson's, for example, the motion of cycling can be incredibly beneficial for their mobility and coordination. For the students from Applefields School, it’s a chance to build physical skills, gain independence, and have a brilliant time with their classmates. These collaborations show just how powerful inclusive cycling can be. It helps people connect with others, feel part of a community, and achieve things they might not have thought possible. It really proves that with the right support and the right equipment, cycling can be a truly life-changing activity.

Who are Get Cycling CIC?

Get Cycling CIC isn’t your average bike shop. It's what’s known as a Community Interest Company, or CIC for short. This means it’s a social enterprise, a type of business that’s set up to do good in the community rather than just make money for shareholders. It's even registered with the Community Interest Company Regulator, so it's the real deal. Any profit it makes is reinvested back into its social mission: making cycling accessible for all.

So, on top of running amazing free events like the indoor cycling sessions, the organisation also offers a whole range of services. This includes inclusive cycle hire, long-term loans of specialist cycles, and sales of new and refurbished bikes. They even handle repairs to keep everyone’s wheels turning. They’ve built up a fantastic community and even have a newsletter called Ride & Thrive for people who want to stay connected. By supporting Get Cycling CIC, people are supporting a social enterprise that makes a real difference in York.

How to get involved

Getting involved couldn't be easier. The free indoor sessions are open to everyone, whether they're completely new to cycling or are looking to get back on a bike after a long break. While booking isn't essential, the team encourages anyone with specific questions or needs to get in touch beforehand so they can be ready to help.

Here are the key details at a glance:

• What Free indoor inclusive cycling sessions with a wide range of adapted cycles.

• When Tuesday afternoons from January until 10th March 2026.

• Where Burnholme Sports Hall, Mossdale Avenue, York, YO31 0HA.

This is a brilliant opportunity to discover the joy of cycling in a friendly, supportive, and fun environment. It’s a chance to build confidence, gain independence, and find a new passion.