Cycling

Cycle Routes

The many quiet countryside roads on the island make it very good for cycling. As well as the roads the is a considerable network of designated cycle tracks and routes as well as miles of public bridleways for those who like off road cycling.

Current established cycle routes include Cowes to Newport, Sandown to Newport, Wotton to Newport and Yarmouth to Freshwater as well as a shorter route connecting Newport to the Mountbatten Centre. More details on the cycle routes can be found on the Cyclewight web site or via Sustrans (the UK's leading sustainable transport charity) which includes the definitive National Cycle Network map.

There is also a well sign posted 'Round the island' road route which can be easily followed by those wanting to cycle right round the island.

Cycle Hire

There are a number of cycle hire shops on the island, so even if you don't have a bike on the island, you can still enjoy the islands various cycle tracks and routes - most of the hire shops are listed below.

Battersby Cycles - 01983 562039 (Ryde)
Best Deal - 07812 555567 (Sandown)
Bikemech Cycle Hire - 01983 754868 (Totland Bay)
Bikestore - 01983 812989 (Ryde)
Wight Cycle Hire - 01983 761800 (Yarmouth & Brading)
Wight Mountain - 01983 533445 (Newport)
Wight Offroad Cycles - 01983 408587 (Sandown)
1st Call Car, Van & Cycle Rental - 01983 400055 (Sandown)

Links

The following sites all contain good information on cycling on and around the island:

http://www.sunseaandcycling.com/ - Information about the different events throughout the cycling season on the island.

http://www.cyclewight.org.uk/ - Cyclewight campaigning for better cycling on the island.

http://www.extremists.co.uk/ - Extremists IOW MTB Club

http://www.portables1.ngfl.gov.uk/mjhoath/vrcc/page8.html - Vectis / Offshore Sports Cycling Club