University of Hull creates a new bike loaning system

A new bike hub has been made available at the University of Hull. The initiative was the result of a partnership between the University and the local vehicle livery and decal firm, Brandfixx. 

The hub, which opened in early October, features more than 60 refurbished bicycles customised in bright purple. This new scheme is similar to that established in the Trinity Market and run by R-evolution, a local charity.

Cycling: A Growing Trend

In recent years, as a result of the rise of concerns related to the current climate emergency, cycling has become a popular alternative means of transport that promotes sustainability and a healthier lifestyle.

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This new trend has also been promoted in particular in the United Kingdom by new emerging professional cycling stars, such as Tom Pidcock, the Yorkshire-born talent who, earlier this year, stunned the nation by winning a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics and is a rising promise in the sport.

He is now expected to run the Tour de France next year. In an early prediction, the Leeds-born rider is currently priced by Betfair cycling odds as a top 20 candidate in the French tour at odds of 75/1. The most important cycling event in the world is set to run between the 1st and the 24th of July 2022, starting for the first time in Copenhagen, Denmark. 

Nonetheless, Hull University Student’s Union had already promoted this new green means of transport as early as 2019 when, in partnership with the same R-evolution, the organisation provided low-cost bikes for university students.

Since then, Hull has seen an increase in the number of cycle lanes available throughout the city. Currently, it is possible to access multiple parts of the city using bike lanes only, including the entirety of the city centre. In fact, those lanes have just recently become safer for both cyclists and pedestrians.

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The new service was also designed with security in mind as the purple bicycles are easy to spot both during the day and night. Moreover, the facilitated access to the scheme works not only as an incentive for students to become less reliant on cars during their day-to-day activities, but also provide them with both mental and physical benefits. In this sense, students travelling from and to the Cottingham Road campus have an extra option to improve their commuting experience.

It is also important to highlight that it is estimated there are over 2 billion bike users across the world and that bikes have the potential to positively contribute to the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions. This method of transport also greatly impacts noise pollution and solves other issues related to parking spaces and facilitates access to city centres worldwide.

The University of Hull bike hub is currently located in the Ferens building and the service runs from Monday to Thursday. Students can opt between one week, one trimester, or one academic year options when renting out their bikes. Additionally, all bike hires feature accessories, such as lights, a lock, and a helmet. Bikes also incorporate 18 gears, mudguards and a pannier rack that comes in various sizes and styles.