Portsmouth City Council is pleased to announce the return of Repair & Ride sessions for everyone in Portsmouth in 2025. Residents can learn the basics of cycle maintenance through a series of informal, hands-on workshops suitable for adults of all ages and abilities.
At each session, experienced bike mechanics from The Pompey Cycle Hub will teach residents the essential skills to keep their bikes in tip-top condition throughout the year. These workshops aim to make cycling more accessible and affordable for everyone – especially people who want to cycle more often for exercise or to get to and from work but struggle with basic maintenance skills and the cost of repairs.
Residents can learn about the equipment needed for repairs and how to use tools they may already have at home. They’ll also learn the basics of cycle maintenance, how to complete pre-ride checks, understand how to make simple repairs to gears and brakes, and how to fix simple issues while out and about.
The flexible workshops allow residents to book all five sessions or mix and match as stand-alone units to fit their schedules. It’s hoped that the sessions will help people learn and develop lifelong skills, leading to more people choosing to cycle and thereby encouraging more active lifestyles and improved physical and mental health. More people choosing to cycle also helps create cleaner air, and safer, less-congested roads in our city.
There will be two rounds of sessions in 2025, with each round including five sessions focusing on different aspects of cycle maintenance.
The first will take place on Fridays between 6pm and 8pm at Stacey Community Centre in Copnor, from May to July 2025, with further sessions available later in the summer. The council is also planning ‘pop-up’ sessions throughout the city, including some at Southsea Skatepark and at local schools.
Cllr Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport at Portsmouth City Council, said: “These workshops are a fantastic opportunity for residents to learn essential bike maintenance skills, making cycling more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. I hope to see many people taking advantage of these free sessions and getting their bikes in great shape.”
More information about Repair and Ride can be found at https://travel.portsmouth.gov.uk/repair-and-ride-workshops/
