Lizzie Armitstead backs Yorkshire's Bike Libraries (video)
Olympic medallist believes new scheme will help attract more people to ride bikes.

Picture by Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com - 12/05/2015 - Cycling - Yorkshire Bank Bike Libraries - Fearnville Leisure Centre, Leeds, England - Cyclist Lizzie Armitstead pictured to promote Yorkshire Bank's Bike Libraries.
Lizzie Armitstead has backed Yorkshire’s new Bike Libraries, which aim to make cycling more accessible for people of all ages in the county.
Launched as part of the area’s Tour de France Grand Départ legacy, and sponsored by Yorkshire Bank, the Libraries are made up of donated bikes that form a network of cycles available to hire free of charge.
Armitstead was on hand yesterday to unveil the first library, which is based at the Fearnville Leisure Centre in Gipton.
“I think it’s a good idea,” she told Cycling Weekly. “I’m always asked to put my name behind things, and anything that aims to get more people on bikes is good.
“I’m aware cycling is an expensive thing to do, and for those without bikes it’s not accessible, so that this scheme is for everybody makes it a good idea. I’m a proud Yorkshirewoman, too, which helps.
“My family has a load of bikes, maybe we should donate some!”
Armitstead is currently training on home soil following the end of her spring campaign. She is scheduled to compete in the Boels Rental Hills Classic on May 29, before heading to American for the inaugural Philly Cycling Classic World Cup round on June 7.
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
* Lizzie Armitstead was speaking on behalf of Yorkshire Bank Bike Libraries, a partnership between Yorkshire Bank and Cycle Yorkshire. For further information visit www.ybonline.co.uk/bikelibraries
Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription
Join now for unlimited access
Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
Founded in 1891, Cycling Weekly and its team of expert journalists brings cyclists in-depth reviews, extensive coverage of both professional and domestic racing, as well as fitness advice and 'brew a cuppa and put your feet up' features. Cycling Weekly serves its audience across a range of platforms, from good old-fashioned print to online journalism, and video.
-
I rode my bike outside for the first time in four months after a winter cycling indoors - did riding 2,000 miles in my shed prepare me for outdoor reality?
Steve has taken on indoor challenges long and short over winter, but would 15-miles on the road prove a pedal stroke too far?
By Stephen Shrubsall Published
-
Mavic Syncros SL MIPS Helmet review: a jack of all trades but master of none?
Designed for road, gravel, and even XC MTB, the Syncros SL is a feature-packed multi-use helmet, but does it hit the allrounder sweet spot?
By Neal Hunt Published
-
21 things you didn't know about Lizzie Deignan
The trailblazing British cyclist has been at the top of the sport for over a decade
By Adam Becket Last updated
-
Lizzie Deignan to make Tour de France Femmes debut this July
'It's the biggest stage in the world,' says Brit
By Tom Davidson Published
-
CW Live: USA Cycling announces Esports roster; Soudal Quick-Step and Israel-Premier Tech release new kit; Lizzie Deignan back racing in May; Peter Sagan 'disappointed' in Wout van Aert; Cyclist killed in London
Everything you need to know in the world of cycling this Friday
By Adam Becket Last updated
-