Stirling Cycle Hub goes “electric”

Stirling Cycle Hub has introduced a new fleet of electric bikes with the aim of opening up cycling to even more people in and around Stirling.

Cyclists road test electric bikes.

The new e-bikes will become part of Stirling Cycle Hub‘s toolkit to get more people, more often into the saddle. Funding for the new scheme has been secured from Transport Scotland and helps Stirling Cycle Hub continue to provide innovative ways to encourage cycling and active travel.

Keith Brown, Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure, Investment & Cities said:

“Stirling Cycle Hub has gone from strength to strength since launching in 2013 and I have been delighted to follow its continued progress.

“For many people a lack of fitness and ability are seen as a barrier to ‘getting on their bikes’. These new electric bikes offer a great way to overcome such difficulties, opening up opportunities to make longer journeys than on a pedal cycle. They also give an opportunity for those interested in buying an electric bike to try one out before investing in one of their own.”

The team at The Hub was keen to explore more ways to overcome the barriers many people have to cycling. One of the most commonly cited barriers being physical fitness. Speaking at the launch of the scheme, Stirling Cycle Hub Coordinator, Graham McQueen said:

“We are thrilled to be launching our small fleet of electric bikes. They will be a key resource for The Hub to help engage with people who find it hard to consider cycling due to fitness, age or ability. They are ideal for commuting and making short, every day journeys and crucially they make cycling more accessible to more people.”

Stirling Cycle Hub will be introducing the bikes to their regular events programme and will be trialling a range of free taster sessions on the bikes with commuters and local employers. The bikes will also be available to hire from the Hub from mid-October.