Liverpool cyclists can get their bikes checked for free as a series of Dr Bike sessions takes place across the city over the coming weeks.
Liverpool City Council is working with Cycling UK to deliver the free drop-in sessions as part of efforts to improve road safety and encourage more people to choose active travel.
The programme begins at Garston Market today, Friday 21 August, and continues at locations across Liverpool until the end of September.
Each session gives cyclists the opportunity to have their bike checked by experts at no cost, helping to ensure it is safe and roadworthy. People can also receive practical advice about cycling safely and sharing the road with other users.
Upcoming Dr Bike sessions are:
- Friday 21 August: Garston Market, 8.30am-11.30am
- Saturday 22 August: Croxteth Park Run, 8am-11am
- Friday 28 August: Rotunda, Follyfest event, 12pm-3pm
- Sunday 30 August: Wavertree Park, 11am-4pm
- Friday 4 September: Sandhills Station, 8am-10am
- Saturday 5 September: Granby Street Market, 11am-3pm
- Tuesday 8 September: Festival Gardens, 10am-1pm
- Tuesday 8 September: Pierhead Ferry Terminal, 8.30am-11.30am
- Thursday 10 September: Springfield Park, 10am-1pm
- Friday 11 September: Sandhills Station, 4pm-6pm
- Saturday 12 September: Otterspool Promenade, 1pm-5pm
- Sunday 13 September: Wavertree Sports Park, 11am-4pm
- Monday 14 September: Festival Gardens, 10am-1pm
- Tuesday 15 September: Toxteth Library, 8am-11am
- Sunday 27 September: Princes Park, 11am-4pm
Alongside promoting cycling, the council is reminding everyone using Liverpool’s roads about the importance of following the Highway Code.
The code gives greater priority to pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users, while recognising that people operating larger vehicles have the greatest responsibility for reducing danger.
Drivers are being encouraged to stay alert, look out for cyclists at junctions and roundabouts, avoid distractions and leave sufficient room when overtaking.
The Highway Code advises drivers to leave at least 1.5 metres when overtaking cyclists and e-scooter users at speeds of up to 30mph, with more space required at higher speeds.
Motorists are also encouraged to use the Dutch Reach when opening vehicle doors. The technique involves using the hand furthest away from the door, naturally turning the body and making it easier to check for approaching cyclists and pedestrians.
Whether walking, wheeling, cycling or driving, the council says everyone has a role to play in making Liverpool’s streets safer.
More information is available on Liverpool City Council’s road safety webpage.
Councillor Dan Barrington, Cabinet Member for Transport and Connectivity, said:
“Cycling is a great way to get out and enjoy Liverpool, whether you’re travelling locally or exploring new parts of the city.
“The free Dr Bike sessions are a fantastic opportunity for cyclists to get expert advice and a professional safety check, helping them make the most of the warmer months.
“By looking out for one another and sharing the road responsibly, we can help make Liverpool’s streets safer for everyone.”
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