Frequently Asked Questions

  
   

What's the difference between 'Cycling Proficiency' and  'Bikeability National Standard' training?

'Bikeability' National Standard' has been developed by the 'Department of Transport' and various cycling bodies, to raise the standard of cycle training for both adults and children. It must be delivered only by fully qualified instructors, who are  experienced regular cyclists. As much as possible of the Bikeability course is delivered 'on road' by instructors who ride with the trainees throughout the lesson. This ensures they are monitored under a variety of real road and traffic conditions.

  

 

Some local authorities are still offering Cycling Proficiency?

The 'Department of Transport's eventual aim is to see all Local Authorities delivering only 'Bikeability' National Standard training,

 

 

What's special about Cycle Training East?

All Cycle Training East's instructors are trained to a very high standard, but our most important qualification is many years of safe cycling! Theory can never replace practical experience and this is why we insist all our instructors are also regular cyclists. 

  

 
Modern traffic is far worse than when I learned to cycle and so I would like my child to have the best training available! Are there any disadvantages to being trained through your organisation?

Cost is the biggest problem. We receive a number of small grants, but these only pay some of our organisations costs. 'Cycling Proficiency' for youngsters, is delivered free at the point of use! But we have to charge our customers, but our  charges are comparable with school swimming or football lessons. However, whereas football lessons are likely to last all year; cycle training is usually for only about 8 weeks!

  

 
All this sounds OK so far, but how much does it cost?

High standards mean a high level of training and commitment by our instructors. We charge £25.00 per hour, per instructor. This means if you have two or more people training at the same time, it reduces the cost by half. You can't even get a plumber for £25 per hour. We have special rates for group bookings which can reduce the costs still further.

  

 
I am now aged over fifty and never rode a bike as a child, can I start cycling now?

Yes, but it will most likely take you a little longer than it would have done forty years ago.

  

 
How long does it normally take to learn to cycle safely on public roads?

Everyone's needs are different, so we don't want to be too specific! On average, someone who has never cycled before needs about 8 hours tuition. For the older person, who cannot ride or balance at all, it may take a little longer, but other factors, such as being a regular car or motorcycle driver can reduce the training time.

  

 
I am worried about cycling in modern traffic conditions, how safe is it?

According to the British Medical Association, the health benefits of cycling out weigh accident risks by 20 : 1. Professional cycle training reduces those risks even further. Cycle Training East will point out the danger areas and ensure that you are only on the 'healthy list' of statistics.