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What is it really like cycling in Manchester?
Cycling in Manchester offers a unique blend of challenges and rewards. With its bustling streets, dedicated cycling paths, and a growing cycling culture, the city presents an intriguing landscape for cyclists of all levels.
From navigating the unpredictable weather to enjoying scenic routes along the canals, cycling in Manchester is more than just a mode of transportation—it’s an experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, this guide explores what it’s really like to pedal through the heart of this vibrant city.
Manchester City Cycling statistics
Here are some cycling statistics related to Manchester:
Cycling Frequency: Approximately 10% of Manchester residents cycle at least once a week. However, only about 2-3% cycle daily, showing room for growth in cycling popularity.
Cycling Infrastructure: Manchester has over 100 kilometers (62 miles) of dedicated cycling lanes and paths, including traffic-free routes and segregated lanes on major roads.
Bee Network Development: As part of the Bee Network initiative, Greater Manchester is investing £1.5 billion to create a 1,800-mile network of cycling and walking routes, aiming to make the region one of the most bike-friendly areas in the UK.
Growth in Cycling Numbers: Since 2013, cycling in Manchester has increased by around 20%. The city aims to double this number by 2025, with ongoing investment in safer infrastructure.
Bike Sharing Programs: Manchester introduced the Mobike bike-sharing scheme in 2017, but it was suspended later. The current initiative, the Bee Network Cycle Hire, has around 1,500 bikes, including e-bikes, available across the city.
Accident Statistics: Unfortunately, cycling in Manchester still comes with risks. The city recorded around 200-250 cycling accidents annually in recent years, highlighting the need for better safety measures.
These statistics provide an overview of cycling in Manchester, reflecting its development, challenges, and future potential.
Cycle Bike Hire in Manchester
Cycling around Manchester is made easier with several convenient bike hire options available throughout the city. Here are the main places to hire a bike in Manchester:
Bee Network Cycle Hire
The Bee Network Cycle Hire scheme, launched by Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM), is one of the most accessible options for hiring bikes in the city. With around 1,500 bikes, including electric bikes (e-bikes), available across numerous docking stations, you can find them at key locations such as:
- Manchester Piccadilly Station
- Manchester Oxford Road Station
- Peter’s Square
- University of Manchester Campus
Simply download the Bee Network app, locate the nearest docking station, and unlock a bike to start your journey. The first 15 minutes of each ride are free for new users, making it a cost-effective way to explore the city.
Bike Hire Shops
Local bike shops also offer a variety of rental options. Some of the popular bike hire shops in Manchester include:
- Popup Bikes: Located near Manchester Victoria Station, Popup Bikes offers bike rentals, repairs, and a cycle café for enthusiasts. They provide both short-term and long-term rental options.
- Manchester Bike Hire: This service offers flexible rental options, including guided tours and e-bike rentals. Located in the Ancoats area, it’s perfect for exploring the trendy Northern Quarter.
University Bike Hire Services
For students and staff, universities such as the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University offer dedicated bike hire schemes. These programs are cost-effective and promote cycling as a sustainable mode of transport within the university community.
Private Bike Rental Services
Companies like Cycle Manchester and Bike & Go offer bike rental services that cater to tourists and locals alike. These services often provide daily, weekly, or monthly rentals, and some even deliver bikes to your location.
Top 3 cycling routes in Manchester
Cycling in Manchester is not just about navigating city streets—it’s also about enjoying scenic routes that showcase the city’s diverse landscapes, from urban paths to tranquil countryside trails. Here are the top three cycling routes in Manchester that cater to all types of cyclists:
Fallowfield Loop
The Fallowfield Loop is a popular 8-mile off-road cycling route that follows the path of a disused railway line, making it a safe and scenic option for cyclists of all levels. It stretches from Chorlton to Debdale, passing through Fallowfield, Levenshulme, and Gorton. The route is well-maintained and mostly flat, perfect for families, leisure cyclists, and commuters. Along the way, you’ll find green spaces, parks, and quiet residential areas.
- Highlights: Alexandra Park, Highfield Country Park, easy access to local cafes.
- Best for: Leisure rides, family cycling, and beginners.
Rochdale Canal Towpath
The Rochdale Canal Towpath is an ideal route for those who want to experience the city’s industrial heritage and scenic waterfronts. Stretching approximately 12 miles from Manchester city centre to the town of Rochdale, this route takes cyclists along a picturesque canal path that winds through charming neighborhoods and historic landmarks. The flat terrain makes it suitable for all skill levels, and it is a popular choice for both commuters and recreational cyclists.
- Highlights: Ancoats, New Islington Marina, Rochdale Pioneers Museum.
- Best for: Scenic rides, history lovers, and city explorers.
Trans Pennine Trail (Manchester to Stockport Section)
For a more adventurous ride, the Trans Pennine Trail offers a 15-mile section from Manchester to Stockport that combines urban and rural cycling. Starting from the city centre, the route follows the River Mersey, passing through parks, woodlands, and scenic countryside. This route provides a great mix of terrains, from paved paths to gravel tracks, making it ideal for more experienced cyclists looking for a diverse ride.
- Highlights: Fletcher Moss Park, Sale Water Park, and the River Mersey.
- Best for: Intermediate to advanced cyclists, nature lovers, and long-distance riders.
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Bike shops in Manchester
Manchester has a thriving cycling community, supported by several excellent bike shops that cater to all types of cyclists, from beginners to professionals. Here are some of the top bike shops in Manchester:
Evans Cycles
Evans Cycles is a well-known chain with a branch conveniently located in the Deansgate area. The shop offers a wide range of bikes, including road bikes, mountain bikes, e-bikes, and hybrids. They also provide bike servicing, accessories, and expert advice to help you choose the right bike. It’s a one-stop shop for both new and experienced cyclists.
Location: Deansgate, Manchester
Services: Bike sales, repairs, accessories, and servicing.
Popup Bikes
Popup Bikes, located near Manchester Victoria Station, is a unique bike shop that combines sales, rentals, and a cycle café. It’s Manchester’s first city-centre cycle park and bike repair shop. They offer a variety of bike types for sale, including second-hand options, along with repair services and secure parking. The relaxed atmosphere of the cycle café makes it a great spot for cyclists to relax and connect.
Location: Corporation Street, Manchester
Services: Bike repairs, rentals, parking, and a cycle café.
Harry Hall Cycles
With a history dating back to 1955, Harry Hall Cycles is a family-run shop that has long been a favorite among Manchester cyclists. They provide a range of bikes, including road, mountain, and hybrid bikes, along with a variety of cycling gear and accessories. Their knowledgeable staff is well-regarded for offering expert advice and personalized service.
Location: Whitworth Street West, Manchester
Services: Bike sales, fitting, repairs, and custom builds.
Cycle Addicts
Cycle Addicts, located in Rochdale, serves Greater Manchester with an impressive range of bikes and gear. From high-performance road bikes to e-bikes and kids’ bikes, they cater to all types of cyclists. They also offer a comprehensive repair and servicing department, along with a variety of cycling accessories.
Location: Rochdale, Greater Manchester
Services: Bike sales, repairs, accessories, and bike fitting.
The Bicycle Doctor
The Bicycle Doctor is a well-respected independent bike shop in Rusholme, known for its reliable repair services and wide range of bikes. From daily commuters to high-end road and mountain bikes, they have something for every type of cyclist. The shop is popular for its expert mechanics who provide comprehensive bike servicing.
Location: Dickenson Road, Rusholme, Manchester
Services: Bike sales, repairs, servicing, and accessories.
These shops provide everything from new bike sales and rentals to repairs and cycling accessories, ensuring Manchester cyclists have all they need for a great ride.
Where to lock your bike in Manchester
Manchester is becoming increasingly bike-friendly, and there are many designated places across the city where you can securely lock your bike. Here are some of the best spots to lock your bike in Manchester:
- City Centre Bike Racks
Manchester City Centre is equipped with numerous bike racks that provide a convenient and secure place to lock up your bike while you explore. These racks are usually located near popular spots, shopping areas, and public transport hubs. Some common locations include:
- Piccadilly Gardens
- Peter’s Square
- Deansgate
- Northern Quarter
These areas are well-lit and have a high footfall, which can deter theft. It’s advisable to use a sturdy D-lock or chain to secure both the frame and wheels of your bike.
- Transport Hubs and Train Stations
Key transport hubs in Manchester have dedicated bike parking facilities to accommodate commuters. Stations like Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Oxford Road, and Manchester Victoria have secure bike parking areas and lockers. These facilities often have CCTV coverage and are located in busy areas, providing added security.
- Manchester Piccadilly Station: Offers a sheltered bike parking area with CCTV.
- Manchester Oxford Road Station: Has bike racks near the entrance and under the station arches.
- University Campuses
If you are cycling around the University of Manchester or Manchester Metropolitan University, there are plenty of secure bike parking spots available on campus. These bike racks are often sheltered and located near main buildings, libraries, and student unions, offering convenience and security to students and staff.
- University of Manchester: Bike shelters are available at various points around the campus.
- Manchester Metropolitan University: Designated bike racks and covered shelters can be found near major buildings.
- Shopping Centres and Public Buildings
Many shopping centres, public libraries, and museums have designated bike parking facilities. The Arndale Centre, Manchester Central Library, and Manchester Art Gallery are some popular spots with bike racks available for public use.
- Manchester Arndale Centre: Bike racks are available near major entrances.
- Manchester Central Library: Provides secure bike parking right outside the entrance.
- Popup Bikes Cycle Park
For those looking for extra security, Popup Bikes offers Manchester’s first indoor cycle park, located near Manchester Victoria Station. This facility provides secure, undercover parking, ideal for those who need a safe place to leave their bike while working or exploring the city. Membership options are available for regular users.
- Location: Corporation Street, Manchester
- Features: Secure parking, repair services, and a cycle café.
These designated areas provide secure options for locking your bike, allowing you to explore Manchester worry-free.
Cycling in the City Manchester Reddit
Explore positive reviews and experiences of cycling in Manchester on Reddit. Discover what locals and visitors are saying about bike-friendly routes, rental options, and the city’s growing cycling community.
- “Cycling in Manchester is fantastic! The bike lanes and paths, like the Fallowfield Loop, make navigating the city easy and safe. The Bee Network Cycle Hire is super convenient, and the growing cyclist community is great. Highly recommend exploring Manchester by bike!”- R. Cliton
- “Manchester’s cycling scene has really improved! The new bike lanes and parks make it a pleasure to ride. Popup Bikes is a great spot for bike rentals and repairs. The city’s becoming very bike-friendly—definitely worth cycling around!” – Marry Wilson
Local cycling clubs in Manchester
Manchester’s cycling scene is supported by several active local clubs that cater to a range of interests and skill levels. Joining a cycling club can enhance your riding experience and connect you with other cycling enthusiasts. Here are some notable local clubs:
- Manchester Wheelers: One of the oldest cycling clubs in Manchester, Manchester Wheelers offers a variety of activities from competitive road racing to casual social rides. The club is known for its inclusive atmosphere and regular group rides.
- Red Rose Road Club: Red Rose Road Club is a popular choice for road cyclists, organizing regular group rides and events throughout the year. The club welcomes cyclists of all abilities and provides structured rides to match different levels of experience.
- Stockport Clarion Cycling Club: Located just outside Manchester, Stockport Clarion Cycling Club offers a diverse range of activities including road cycling and mountain biking. The club is known for its friendly nature and caters to both competitive and recreational cyclists.
- Greater Manchester Cycling Club: Greater Manchester Cycling Club promotes cycling throughout the local area with various rides and events. The club is involved in community rides and cycling advocacy, supporting local cycling initiatives.
- Chorlton Cycling Club: Based in the Chorlton area, Chorlton Cycling Club provides a range of rides from social outings to training sessions. The club is known for its supportive environment and local cycling events.
These clubs offer excellent opportunities to engage with the cycling community in Manchester and enjoy organized rides and events.
Final verdict
Cycling in Manchester offers a dynamic and enriching experience for riders of all levels. From scenic routes like the Fallowfield Loop and Rochdale Canal Towpath to the convenience of bike hire schemes and secure parking options, the city provides ample opportunities for both casual and dedicated cyclists.
Joining local clubs can further enhance your experience, connecting you with fellow enthusiasts and organized events.
Whether you’re navigating the city streets or exploring the surrounding countryside, Manchester’s growing cycling infrastructure and vibrant community make it an ideal place to embrace cycling.
Enjoy the ride and discover all that Manchester has to offer on two wheels.
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Arjun Mertiya
Author
Since Arjun was a young child, bikes have played a big part of his life. He races bikes, rides bikes and also loves writing about bikes. It’s always just been a way of life for Arjun and a passion that he loves to share with others..
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