Last updated at 12:51, Thursday, 10 November 2011

The team behind the Electric Bicycle Network in Cumbria is selling off some of its bikes now the summer season is over.

“These top-of-the-range bicycles represent a real bargain for those who’d love to get onto two wheels but with a bit of a boost,” said Electric Bicycle Network director Isobel Stoddart.

“As a social enterprise, we sell a proportion of our fleet each year and put the funds towards next year’s fleet.

“We only use the best electric bikes as our aim is to enable as many people as possible to have a fantastic time on two wheels, however hilly it is, however fit they are, without any worry.”

The Electric Bicycle Network in the Lake District was one of the first in the country, and has given many hundreds of people a new opportunity to enjoy the freedom of cycling within the Lake District’s iconic and beautiful scenery.

As the season comes to a successful conclusion the bikes will be available to try at Grizedale Mountain Bikes – the Electric Bicycle Network’s hub in the central Lakes.

“At not far off half the retail price they represent a great buy as bikes that have had no more than a few months’ use,” says Andy Beavon, co-owner of Grizedale Mountain Bikes.

“All the bikes have been professionally maintained and serviced by qualified bike mechanics at Grizedale, and come with a six-month warranty.

“They’re fantastic bikes which can change lives; from those who simply want to beat the hills, to non-cyclists who want to accompany their cycling friends and family for the first time – or leave them behind.”

Richard Greenwood, head of policy for Cumbria Tourism said: “Cumbria has already earned its title as ‘Adventure Capital of the UK’, but not everyone has the energy – or will – to tackle some of our hills. The Electric Bicycle Network is a straight-forward way for visitors to get out of their cars and truly experience the Lakes, without needing to train. The electric bike fleet has provided sterling service this season, it’s great that residents and visitors alike now have the opportunity to purchase a heavily discount electric bike of their own.

“I might even pop along and get one myself and sit back and enjoy those hills in style.”

The Electric Bicycle Network team say they expect the bikes to sell fast and hope that locals in particular will benefit from the opportunity.

Bikes will be offered on a first come, first served basis and are available to try and buy at Grizedale, or online at www.electricbicyclenetwork.com.

First published at 11:28, Thursday, 10 November 2011
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk