Bike maintenance stations helping businesses along the National Cycle Network
Posted on in Cycles News
Sustrans is working with local businesses to provide bike maintenance stations and pumps at key stops along the National Cycle Network in Scotland, which, it says, will support more people to cycle along the routes as well as help local businesses to reach more customers.
Six bike maintenance stations and pumps are being installed this spring along parts of National Cycle Network Route 7 and the Lochs and Glen Way, a key leisure cycling route in Scotland. The stations put cycle tools on the National Cycle Network at handy stops where people need them. This will help people cycling to make adjustments and repairs during their trips.
It'll also encourage more people to take cycling journeys along the Network as the stations offer that peace of mind to undertake both more everyday journeys as well as long-distance cycling rides.
These heavy-duty stations feature nine essential bike tools on retractable stainless-steel cables and a stand to elevate a bike off the ground while making repairs. The bike pump offers the same ease of use and high-pressure rating as a track pump, with the durability required for long-term public use.
The maintenance stations also have useful Sustrans stickers with a QR code to access information on all National Cycle Network routes from a smartphone.
Sustrans says that working with businesses to improve the offering for people cycling is a win–win situation. Businesses can enjoy increased dwell time and spending as people stop to refuel on food and drinks at cafes and shops. Meanwhile, cyclists can check over their bikes and fix any minor bike gripes or pump up their tyres for free.
The Sustrans Walking and Cycling Index found that people walking, wheeling, and cycling took 14.6 million cars off the road in 2021, saving 2.5 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions. Walking and cycling is worth an estimated £36.5 billion to the UK economy each year.