19 June 2017

Media: Rotorua Daily Post

Topic: Tweed Ride

Inquiry

I'm just emailing as I saw on the council Facebook page there is a Tweed Ride at the Lakefront this weekend. I was wondering if it is possible to get some answers sent through to the following questions by an appropriate person/the organiser:

- Why was it decided to hold the Tweed Ride?

- Where will the bike ride go?

- Why do you encourage people to come along and take part?

- Are themed rides like this one something you are hoping to make more common, and if so why?

- Any recommendations for people if they are not sure what to do for outfits?

- Are there any photos available which could go with the story?

Response

Response from Sustainable Transport Officer, Rachel Doelman -

We are all about getting people out on their bikes, trying new things and having a good time. Themed rides are a great way to show that riding a bike is a fun and easy way to get around our city especially using the new infrastructure being built as part of the CyWay network.

We have hosted a lot of Frocks on Bikes events which are really popular but we wanted to host something that men could feel more comfortable getting involved in. It's a bit different, but we hope that the community will get involved and that our usuals will encourage their friends and family to come along and give it a go too.

We hope to make this an annual event.

If riders are unsure of what to wear, there is plenty of inspiration online. We suggest checking out the op-shops around town and support the local charities. Go for woollen outfits, shirts, bowties and scarves. Women don't have to wear skirts - perhaps try some knickerbockers!

Sunday's ride will start and finish at the bike tree (opposite Lady Janes) at the Village Green. The loop, which takes about an hour, goes through a mix of quiet streets, shared paths and on-road cycleways. There is even a surprise part of the ride which participants will see on the day.

What Tweed Riders need to know:

Meet at 3pm at the Bike Tree at the Village Green.

All riders must have a helmet.

There are two route options depending on experience and skill level. The longer route is approximately 14km.

Check online and local op-shops for outfit inspiration

Dress warm

Bring your friends along