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Chat-e-Cycle
Cycling to a healthy age.
Initiative awarded and recognised by:
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What is Chat-e-Cycle?
Chat-e-Cycle is a side-by-side electric tandem Cycle that offers an accessible, active and environmentally-friendly transport option within rural communities.
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The side-by-side design of the tandem trike provides the opportunity for 2 cyclists to chat while cycling along. The electric function makes hills and country lanes a breeze and means the riders have the power to exert themselves as much or as little as they want.
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But, Chat-e-Cycle is more than just a bike ride. It is a service centered around harnessing community spirit to tackle social isolation and increase physical activity. Local residents are at the heart of the design and can help shape where the bike stored, how it can be used and where it goes. The comfortable and social design of the cycle has been developed with older adults in mind, but ultimately this is a service for everyone and anyone.
How does it work?
Chat-e-Cycle is running a pilot project in Chilcompton, Somerset in the Summer of 2023 - to try and test future designs.
The electric tandem can go wherever a standard bike goes. The electric function means you don't have to over-exert yourself and will accommodate all levels of fitness. One person is the "pilot" who will steer the tandem and control the electric power. The "co-pilot" can sit back and enjoy the ride and contribute to the pedaling as much or as little as they want to.
We are now taking bookings. If you, your relative or someone you know living within, or around the Chilcompton area would be interested in having a go or volunteering as the cycle pilot then do not hesitate to get in touch now.
Connection
Meeting new people in your community or connecting with old friends
Health
Opportunity to exercise, experience the fresh air and soak up some vitamin D!
Transport
Travelling around your local area in an environmentally friendly way
Benefits
Ways that you can help Chat-e-Cycle
Crowd Funding
Throughout April, May and June 2022 we were busy fundraising for our first tandem cycle to be used in the pilot project in August. The Van Raam Fun2Go is the leading side-by-side electric tandem that we hope can be a starting point for the future development of the Chat-e-Cycle design. Thank you so much to everyone who supported the campaign!
Become a Chat-e-Champion
We are recruiting for volunteers of Chat-e-Cycle to Champion the idea!
Sign up to our Pilot Scheme
We are currently planning for a pilot project in Summer 2023 in Chilcompton, Somerset. The pilot project will help shape the future trajectory of the service and cycle design of Chat-e-Cycle. We envision Chat-e-Cycle being in every community as a core tool for healthy ageing and community connection - but we need your help in getting the wheels in motion.
Tell your friends, share with local community groups and business pages. If you would like to have a go on Chat-e-Cycle or know someone who would - then we want to hear from you!
Spread the word