On yer’ bike! How to be cycle smart in and around West Sussex

West Sussex is an amazing place to explore by cycle. From the beautiful countryside of the ‘Six Villages’ and the city streets of Chichester to the glorious coastal paths around the Witterings and Bognor Regis’s promenade, you’re spoilt for choice.

The coming weeks also bring us a number of bike events. Cycle to School Week takes place between 5^th and 9^thOctober, while Glow Rides – part of Cycling UK’s My ride. Our Right campaign - take place on 22^nd October. And if you’re taking part in the National Autistic Society’s 100 Miles In October, you can include cycling as one of your activities.

Many of the White & Brooks’s team are fond of travelling by two wheels, so we’ve pooled our knowledge of where to cycle, how to get your bike in tip top condition, and even the best place to stop and refuel.

Salterns Way Cycle Route

The Salterns Way Cycle Route from Chichester to West Wittering is great for families, nervous cyclists or keen beginners. Much of the route is off road and flat, crossing fields, countryside and the coast. The route is 12 miles long and takes around 1.5 hours if you don’t stop for a break. Start at The Cross in Chichester, pass through Dell Quay, Chichester Marina, Birdham, Itchenor and West Wittering, before ending at the National Trust’s East Head.

Cycle Bognor

If you like the idea of cycling around Bognor Regis but are worried about planning a safe route, get in touch with Cycle Bognor. It runs group cycles every weekend, with Saturday’s routes shorter than Sunday’s. As a bonus, there are some weekday evening group events in the summer. Cyclists are encouraged to mingle at the start point or ride part of the distance to build up their local cycling confidence.

Scuttlebutt Café

Restore flagging energy levels at the Scuttlebutt Café at Birdham Pool – a short detour off the Salterns Way Cycle Route. This is a hut-style café surrounded by open space and tables, making it ideal for cyclists, who are already warmly welcomed. Stuffed cookies, flapjacks, pastries and cakes can be washed down with cold drinks and some of the best coffees for miles.

App-Bike Hire

You can enjoy the freedom of two wheels without ever owning a bike. App-Bike is a quick and easy way to hire a cycle in West Sussex. There are rental stations at Itchenor, East Wittering, Chichester Marina (sailing club car park and visitor car park) and multiple locations at Seal Bay in Selsey. Simple download the app, unlock a bike and plan your route, ending at one of App-Bike’s hubs for your final docking. Standard bikes are priced from £3 per hour, while e-bikes are from £7 an hour.

The Chichester Bike Project

Located on Longacre Way in Shopwykes Lakes, The Chichester Bike Project is an amazing hub for all things cycling. You can donate a bike, buy a fully-serviced second hand model or take a cycle you own in for repairs. The team also runs workshops for all ages, designed to improve your knowledge of cycle care and repair.

The Local Spokes Man

Keep your wheels in working order by booking with The Local Spokes Man. You can drop your cycle to the service centre in Pagham near Bognor Regis, or choose the pick-up and delivery back option – perfect if your cycle won’t fit into your car. You can choose to pay a one off cost or opt into the service subscription for as little as £8 a month. There’s also an online shop so you can buy the products you need in between servicing.

Kampos Cycles

Whether you’re not happy with your chain, feel your gears are sticking or have a wheel issue, the team at Kampos Cycles in Bognor Regis will get you back on the road. They’ll also pick up your bike if it isn’t safe to ride. The store is worth a visit too, with a selection of preloved cycles for sale.

If you see one of White & Brooks’s ‘for sale’ signs as you cycle around the county and are curious, get in touch. We can tell you what’s for sale, for how much and book you in for a viewing.