National Standard for Cycle Training

Purrfect Pedalling cycle training is based on the new National Standard for Cycle Training which covers cycle training for people with a wide range of needs, from complete beginners through to people who wish to cycle more confidently on busy roads. However, our training courses are one-to-one and tailored to your individual needs. We will discuss your requirements and plan a course of training that best meets your objectives. For example you may just want to learn the basics of riding a bike so you can ride off-road, or perhaps you want help with a particular on-road journey which you intend to ride regularly. We will work with you to ensure that you obtain the maximum benefit from your time with us.

The National Standard (branded when taught in schools as 'Bikeability') is split into three levels of training. Depending on your requirements and how much training you have we will select elements of training from one of more levels

Level 1: Basic Skills

There are many reasons why someone misses out on learning to ride a bike but the great thing is that you are never to old to learn! Some beginners have previously had bad experiences whilst trying to learn that has left them feeling fearful about falling and without any confidence in their ability to learn the skill of cycling.

The basic skills include balancing, steering, starting and stopping, use of gears. simple manoeuvres and obstacle avoidance, checking your bike and using off-road paths and cycle facilities. These basic skills are taught off public roads, and give the less confident cyclist a chance to practise in a traffic free environment. These sessions are mainly aimed at people who consider themselves non-cyclists, new to cycling or have never learnt how to use all the equipment, like brakes and gears, effectively.

Level 2: Introduction to On- Road Cycling

This level is for those who have completed the basic skills course or are comfortable with bike riding, but want to start using roads and cycle networks. This level covers the theory of on-road cycling, stopping and starting, use of gears, cycling one handed and signalling, looking behind, turning right, left and overtaking parked vehicles and using cycling facilities on and off road. Apart from an off-road introductory session, Level 2 training is on quiet roads.

Level 3: Advanced On-Road Skills

This training is for those who have completed the basic skills and intermediate levels, or those who have been cycling regularly but still lack confidence in busier and more complex traffic conditions. Alongside the teaching of more advanced manoeuvres you will also have an opportunity to review and polish techniques taught in earlier sessions. The purpose of this training is somewhat different from earlier stages which concentrate on cycling skills. This level may focus on a particular journey you want to make so you can set out with confidence. This level covers the theory of on-road cycling (as Level 2 with the additional theory required to support the more advanced road work being undertaken), the cycle as a vehicle, positioning & observation, complex turns, roads and junctions; roundabouts and signal controlled junctions and filtering.

Supplementary information relevant to you will also be included at points during the course including cycle security, cycling at night, load carrying, cycle organisations and forums, and using your bicycle with public transport.

Based on information about the National Standard at www.ctc.org.uk

Please contact us for more information or to book a lesson.

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Need help with bike maintenance?

Purrfect Pedalling's Happy Bike service can either teach you basic maintenance skills at your home or undertake basic repairs and adjustments for you. Email happybike or call 07896 885726.