A free community cycling programme is helping residents across Walsall build their confidence on two wheels, learn new skills and make cycling a more regular part of everyday life.
On Ya Bike is being delivered as part of the wider West Midlands Cycle & Walk programme through a partnership between Walsall Council and Cycling UK. The initiative is funded by the Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) Active Travel and Capability Fund.
Throughout the summer, residents have been able to access a variety of free activities aimed at both new and experienced cyclists. These have included Dr Bike sessions at Walsall Arboretum and learn-to-ride sessions at Willenhall Memorial Park.
Dr Bike provides free safety checks and minor repairs to help residents ensure their bicycles are safe and roadworthy. Learn-to-ride sessions are designed for beginners as well as people returning to cycling after time away, giving participants the opportunity to develop their skills and confidence in a supportive setting.
Another key part of On Ya Bike is the development of a borough-wide network of Cycle Ambassadors. The ambassadors will encourage cycling within their neighbourhoods, share their enthusiasm with others and help strengthen Walsall’s local cycling community.
People interested in becoming Cycle Ambassadors can also take part in a free one-day Group Leader course delivered by Cycling UK at Walsall Arboretum. The course is aimed at community groups and cyclists who would like to support and encourage others to cycle. Fourteen places are available for the session on 12 September 2026, with spaces already filling quickly.
The project contributes to wider work across Walsall to support healthier lifestyles, increase opportunities for physical activity and give residents more options for travelling around the borough.
Councillor Matt Eason, Portfolio Holder for Culture, Health and Wellbeing at Walsall Council, said:
“ On Ya Bike is designed to help more residents access cycling opportunities across the borough. Through training, maintenance support and community activities, the project offers practical ways for people to build confidence and enjoy cycling, whatever their experience level. “
Further free On Ya Bike sessions are scheduled to take place at the Willenhall Memorial Park Bandstand on Saturdays throughout August, September and October. Dates may be subject to change, and participants are encouraged to bring their own bicycle and helmet where possible.
Upcoming dates are:
- 29 August
- 5 September
- 12 September
- 19 September
- 26 September
- 3 October
- 10 October
- 17 October
- 24 October – family session only
Family sessions will run from 9am to 11am, with adult sessions taking place from 11.30am to 1.30pm.
For further information about the sessions, residents can contact Paulette at giveagirlabike22@gmail.com.
About On Ya Bike
On Ya Bike is a community cycling initiative aimed at increasing participation in cycling across Walsall. It combines practical bicycle maintenance, cycle training and community engagement to help more residents feel confident about getting on a bike.
The project is funded by the Transport for West Midlands Active Travel and Capability Fund, forms part of the West Midlands Cycle & Walk programme and is being delivered by Cycling UK.
Alongside encouraging more people to cycle, the programme aims to support health and wellbeing, promote active travel and establish a network of Cycle Ambassadors who can champion cycling within their own communities.
The free Group Leader course will take place on 12 September 2026, with 14 places available. Anyone interested in joining the course can contact Michelle Smith, Cycling Development Officer at Cycling UK, at michelle.smith@cyclinguk.org.