FAQs
About Bikeability
Bikeability is the government’s national cycle training programme. It helps you learn practical skills and understanding of how to cycle on today’s roads. Bikeability gives everyone the confidence to cycle and enjoy this skill for life.
Bikeability cycle training was designed for children, but it’s never too late to learn! Cycling is a life skill and we know that many parents wish they could cycle more with their children.
We now offer Adult and Family courses to help your whole family to cycle with confidence. Search for cycle training in your area, using our Find Cycle Training page.
Bikeability takes place outdoors and observes social distancing. Our instructors follow Covid-19 guidelines, strict hygiene and take regular lateral flow tests.
All Bikeability Covid-19 guidance is approved by the government and Public Health England.
Cycle training for my child
Most children will take part in Bikeability at school. Check with your school first to find out when the next cycle training course will take place.
If your child’s school doesn’t offer Bikeability or you would prefer private lessons, you can still access training. Find a course near you by visiting our Find Cycle Training page.
Your child can start Bikeability Level 1 as soon as they can ride without stabilisers. Most children take part in Level 1 when they are between 7 and 10 years old. They then progress to Level 2 between 9 and 11 years old. However, we know that every child is different and you can find cycle training for all ages.
Your child cannot take part in Level 1 or above if they use stabilisers – but fear not! Our Bikeability Balance training can help your child gain confidence. Learning to balance can be tricky and we recommend a balance bike as a great way to learn to cycle. Our partners Frog Bikes and the Bike Club both supply balance bikes. You can also remove the pedals from a normal bike to create your own!
If you want one-to-one support, your local Bikeability training provider may be able to help. Find support near you by visiting our Find Cycle Training page.
No! We want all children to cycle with confidence and this doesn’t mean they have to complete every level. Our levels are designed to take children on a journey from basic cycle skills to complex road cycling. You may decide that your child does not need to complete every level. If you are not sure, your local Bikeability training provider can help you decide.
Of course! When we say we want every child to enjoy cycling, we mean every child. Please let your cycle instructor know in advance, so they can make any amends you may need.
Most Bikeability training is free, thanks to funding from the Department for Transport. Some areas ask for an admin fee and you will be told this before training starts.
If you are looking for private Bikeability training, there will be a cost. Costs vary, so check with your local training provider before booking a session.
On the day
Your school will explain in advance what your child needs to bring to Bikeability, as this can vary. All children will need to bring a roadworthy cycle. A roadworthy cycle has:
- Inflated tyres, as hard as an apple
- Two working brakes
- A well-oiled chain
- A saddle and handlebars fixed on tight
If your child does not own a cycle, you may be able to borrow one. Please ask your school for more information. You can also sign up to a monthly cycle subscription with the Bike Club. Use the code “Bikeability” for your first month free.
Your child doesn’t need lycra for Bikeability! Normal, comfortable clothes are all you need, just not baggy trousers or long coats. Don’t forget to wrap up in the winter and wear sunscreen in the summer.
Your child may need to wear a helmet or hi-vis jacket. Your school will tell you this in advance.
Don’t panic! As forms vary from area to area, contact your school to ask for another copy.
If your child misses some of their Bikeability training, they don’t have to miss out on the whole course. Speak to your instructor to see if they can still take part.
If your child needs more training, they may be able to take part in the next course at your school. If not, you can find other Bikeability training in your area here.
Poor weather is a part of life and so is learning to cycle in it! Your child should wear layers and waterproofs to protect them during the course.
Your Bikeability instructor will decide if training will go ahead in poor weather. They might finish the session early. If this happens, the session will be rescheduled.
After cycle training
Children who complete Bikeability will receive a certificate, badge and handbook. Badges are red for Level 1, orange for Level 2 and green for Level 3. The handbook includes top tips on how to continue their cycling journey. You can also join our Bikeability Club newsletter.
Bikeability is not about “passing” the course. We want to inspire children to enjoy cycling for the rest of their lives. As a result, we’ve designed our levels to help children progress with confidence.
All children who complete Bikeability will receive a certificate, badge and handbook. On the certificate, the instructor will include detailed feedback of your child’s skills. This will include areas they might need to spend more time practicising.
Sometimes, your child may not meet the required safety standard to progress to the next level. This doesn’t mean they have failed – they just need some more time and support!
If your child needs more practice to cycle with confidence, your instructor will let you know. They will give you specific tips and areas your child needs to improve.
Practice makes perfect, so we recommend you support your child to continue cycling. If you want one-to-one support, your local Bikeability training provider may be able to help. Find support near you by visiting our Find Cycle Training page.
We welcome all feedback about Bikeability. For comments about a recent course, please contact your school or Bikeability training provider.
If you want to escalate a comment or complaint, please email contactus@bikeability.org.uk.
We do not supply badges or certificates direct to individuals. Please contact your school or Bikeability training provider.