Lets Go encourages cycling in Whanganui this summer with new initiative Back to Bikes

Leading the Back to Bikes charge are Nicola Brown, Emma Webby and Michelle Mackenzie.

Whanganui District Council-led initiative Let's Go has launched a new programme to encourage Whanganui teenagers and adults to get back on their bikes this summer.

Back to Bikes will run on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9.30am to 11am during December.

It is aimed at everyone who wants to improve their cycling confidence or feels they don't get out on their bike enough, but with a specific focus on teenagers and adults.

Each Back to Bikes outing includes a 45-minute ride, starting from The River Traders – Whanganui's Market by the River carpark (next to the Whanganui River shared pathway), followed by some time for socialising with other riders at Mud Ducks Cafe and a complimentary coffee.

Let's Go has contracted the Whanganui Multisport Club to deliver the programme.

Whanganui Multisport Club co-ordinator for Let's Go Greg Fromont said he had seen a lot of success with school programmes designed to get kids on bikes, but not enough adults were following suit.

"I would love to see more people getting back on their bikes, biking is a great way to get around, exercise and meet people," Fromont said.

ACC is supplying additional funding for the initiative, with $10,000 allocated to the council this year for cycle education targeting teens and adults.

Whanganui District Council's active transport facilitator, Norman Gruebsch, said he is delighted with the additional funding from ACC.

"Cycling is an important life-skill, like swimming. With the continuing work on shared pathways in Whanganui, there's even more reason for cycling in our city and district," Mr Gruebsch said.

There is a maximum of 10 people per group and you must bring your own bike and helmet.

You can either register or just turn up. For more information or to register, go to the Let's Go Whanganui website: http://letsgowhanganui.org.nz or text Nicola (021 297 0631) or Emma (021 0818 6660).