BikeSomerset / About Bike Somerset

About Bike Somerset

Bike Somerset aims to promote, coordinate and develop cycling in all its forms in Somerset, with the ultimate objective of making Somerset the UK's number one county for cycling.

The iniative targets all residents of Somerset, or visitors to the county, who would like to get more from their cycling. This includes everyone from the absolute beginner to the advanced sportive rider, irrespective of age and ability. From the 'tinkerers' to the 'head down brigade', this initiative is for you. Contact.

Bike Somerset is driven by today's leading cycling organisations, including Somerset County Council, British Cycling, Sustrans, CTC, Pendragon Sports, Tor 2000 and Cycle Somerset.

Somerset County Council is committed to promoting cycling as a sustainable form of transport that is better for the environment and better for you. Their aims are far reaching and not only include promoting cycling as a healthier alternative, but also to reduce casualties on our roads. SCC organise training with schemes such as Bikeability and Fit to Ride. The work travel plan Moving Forward was launched in May 2007. The Council is also responsible for bringing the Tour of Britain to the South West for the next five years.

British Cycling is the governing body of cycling in the UK. It administers the sport in the following disciplines: BMX, Cycle Speedway, Cyclo-Cross, Mountain Bike, Road and Track. British Cycling has a range of responsibilities, which, for operational purposes, are grouped under the headings of 'Excellence' and 'Participation'. Their services range from training to insurance, and they offer training through Go Ride and promotion through Everyday Cycling.

Sustrans is the UK's leading sustainable transport charity who want to promote forms of transport that are better for us and better for the environment. Their great success story is the National Cycle Network. They also promote safer environments for cyclists, whether in the local neighbourhood or for safe routes to schools.

The CTC is the oldest and largest cycling organisation in the UK. They have been promoting and protecting the rights of cyclists since 1878. They offer all sorts of advice from training to road safety, and they also offer discounts on new bikes and equipment.

Tor 2000 is Somerset's largest cycling club and Team Tor 2000 is their racing squad, not an elite group, but riders who want to improve their racing. They meet at the closed circuit at Ilton twice a week during the summer. The cycling club offers members the opportunity to experience road and track events. They cater for anyone with an interest in road and track racing, and new members are always welcome.

Pendragon Sports is one of the premier cyclesportive event management teams in the country. Their (and our) flagship event is the hugely popular three day Tour of Wessex. For 2007 this event features on the UCI calendar and visitors will also be able to enjoy the Wessex Cycle Show. They also offer training and holidays.

Cycle Somerset

Cycle Somerset are a Taunton based organisation who are actively involved in campaigning for better rights for cyclists. They also have a club that enjoy the more 'leisurely' rides. They also raise funds for their charity, the Somerset Cycle Trust.