Explore On Two Wheels
Ribble Valley e-Bikes has expanded to meet customer needs as more and more of us swap four wheels for two to explore our beautiful countryside, writes Gail Bailey. Photography: Kirsten Platt
Roger Wolstenholme, owner of Ribble Valley e-Bikes, has a wealth of knowledge of the sector, as well as the area, to give both technical advice and guidance on where to visit to experience the best routes – and the most perfect views of the Ribble Valley.
As well as the hire centre based in Dunsop Bridge, Ribble Valley e-Bikes has recently opened a new shop in Clitheroe with a focus on sales: “The town is becoming a real hub for cyclists,” explains Roger. “The sales arm of our business is developing and expanding – and with the benefit of offering hire as well, it’s a great chance to try before you buy.”
Bike sales and hire are available from either venue with Dunsop acting primarily as the hire HQ and Clitheroe as the retail base.
E-bikes are electric-assisted pedal bikes. Ridden just like any conventional bike, they also have a battery-powered drive system to give a boost when needed. This means they make the hills in the Ribble Valley more accessible to more people.
The pandemic has raised the profile of electric bikes and they have re-emerged as a practical mode of transport as well as a leisure activity: “More and more people are using bikes to get to work as well as riding for fun, keeping us both more physically and mentally fit, as well as the added bonus of being much better for the environment.
“Our aim is to make the search for your new e-bike as pleasurable and relaxed as possible and to ensure that you have all the facts to make a fully informed decision,” Roger adds.
The range of bikes available is carefully selected to suit all levels of cycling proficiency and to offer quality and reliability. Brands include British companies Raleigh and Volt, German manufacturer Haibike and French company LaPierre, and includes mountain bikes, road bikes and hybrid models. The fantastic Woom children’s range is also available with Ribble Valley e-Bikes being one of only three stores in the country authorised to stock the brand.
Ribble Valley e-Bikes provides a service site at Gisburn Forest Trail Park where bikes can be pre-booked and delivered for customers to explore the forest and enjoy the thrill of off-roading. The company also has further collaborations with accommodation providers in the area to allow visitors to explore the scenery without worrying about organising baggage. Cycle Safaris with James’ Places is one such collaboration where customers can explore the Ribble Valley and the Yorkshire Dales – Roger and his team deliver the bikes and James’ Places transport the luggage – perfect!
The Spread Eagle at Sawley is also a drop off and collection point for Ribble Valley e-Bikes and another perfect base from which to explore the area hassle free!
“Cycling is the greenest transport you can use and with the recent welcome changes in the Highway Code it is now much more accessible,” says Roger. “Better for you and the environment.”
Ribble Valley E-Bikes Ltd
Waterloo Road, Clitheroe BB7 1RA
Dunsop Bridge Garage
Dunsop Bridge, Clitheroe BB7 3BB
01200 426246
info@ribblevalley-e-bikes.co.uk
ribblevalley-e-bikes.co.uk
