Pedal Power - Championing Inclusive Cycling in Cardiff
Pedal Power began as a rehabilitation initiative at Ely Hospital and has since grown into a thriving organisation with sites in Pontcanna and Cardiff Bay. Rooted in its original mission, Pedal Power continues to champion inclusive cycling. They also foster social connection and overall wellbeing.
In 2024, Pedal Power hired out over 19,000 cycles, and delivered over 900 lessons to adults and children (report.pdf).
To make cycling accessible to all, Pedal Power offers personalised assessments to recommend suitable bikes, trikes, and accessories. Their services include cycle hire and sales, as well as tailored support for carers, helping to remove many of the barriers that people with additional needs may face when trying to cycle.
More information can be found on their website: https://www.cardiffpedalpower.org/
Teresa’s experience
Teresa hadn’t cycled in over 20 years, largely due to fear and struggles with vertigo which affects her balance. Past experiences with cycling had been negative - limited storage options and near misses with cars had left her feeling unsafe. However, she was keen to take part in work commitments that benefit from being able to cycle, and with support from her manager, motivated her to start cycle training at Pedal Power.
Initially, Teresa considered using a tricycle due to her balance issues, but with encouragement from pedal Power, she tried a standard bike. She began with one-to-one sessions with a cycling officer, gradually progressing to on-road training. Group rides with Pedal Power provided valuable practice.
Since completing the training, Teresa has replaced many car journeys with cycling, and took part in a work visit where she cycled in a busy and unfamiliar city. She now feels more confident navigating the roads but still prefers using segregated cycle lanes.
Teresa continues to attend Pedal Power’s group rides. These sessions are social, supportive and are a great way to keep practicing. Teresa is even considering training to lead groups rides herself, inspired by how much she’s gained from the experience:
"The training with Pedal Power was a game changer. I feel much more confident cycling and sharing the space with other users (motorised or not). It also sparked my interest in cycling and now it’s something I look forward to do on my days off. In the future, I would like to become a Breeze Ride Lead so I can lead the group rides in Pedal Power as a volunteer."
Damien’s experience
Damien has a spinal condition that affects his balance, mobility and strength. 13 years ago, following advice from others and wanting to improve his confidence, independence and physical activity led Damien to visit Pedal Power to try an adapted cycle. He and has remained involved with the organisation ever since.
Damien learnt to ride one of their adapted three-wheeled cycles. The support he received helped him develop new skills and confidence in a safe and welcoming environment.
"I had never really ridden a cycle properly before coming to Pedal Power, but I was put at ease and taught how to ride one of the trikes safely."
What started as an opportunity to try cycling has become a part of Damien's life.
Cycling has helped Damien become more active and independent, providing a practical way to get around and spend time outdoors. It has also enabled him to build new social connections through volunteering and participating in group activities.
"Pedal Power has given me confidence and more freedom. Using a trike allows me to get around more easily than walking with crutches and being part of the organisation has helped me feel connected and involved."
Following surgery in 2016, Damien found it more difficult to use a manual trike. After discussing this with staff, he was introduced to an electric-assisted trike, which enabled him to continue cycling despite changes in his mobility and strength.
"The staff took the time to help me learn how to use an electric trike. It made a huge difference and allowed me to keep cycling."
For Damien, access to adapted cycles and personalised support has enabled him to continue enjoying the benefits of cycling for over a decade, while remaining active within his community.
Lessons learnt
- Cycle training is a great way to build confidence and to get people into cycling.
- Cycle training can help generate modal shift from cars to active modes.
- Organisations like Pedal Power offer a wide range of benefits and help make cycling more inclusive.
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