By KLTV Newsdesk –

In 2024, EPIKS project officer Jim Gray and his team brought the Walk Wheel Ride e-bike roadshow to various locations across Kirklees.

The initiative provided hundreds of people with the opportunity to test ride a variety of e-bikes, learn about their benefits, and receive impartial advice on selecting the best e-bike for their needs.

Roadshow Highlights

Residents might have spotted the e-bikes and the Walk Wheel Ride gazebo at various venues, including Dewsbury Country Park, Spen Valley Greenway, Holmfirth Food and Drink Festival, Tolson Museum, Dewsbury Library, Oakwell Hall Country Park, the Kumon Y’all festival in Dewsbury, Greenhead College, and the John Smith Stadium in Huddersfield.

EPIKS has exciting plans for more e-bike activities in 2025.

Details will be available on their Walk Wheel Ride website and social media channels. Interested individuals can also contact the team via email at office@epiks.org.uk.

The Importance of E-Bikes

The transport sector is responsible for 40% of the UK’s carbon emissions, making it the second-largest contributor.

E-bikes offer a cost-effective, fast, and health-boosting alternative to traditional transport methods.

They enhance mental health and independence and can be easily integrated into blended travel modes, such as cars or trains.

E-bikes are particularly useful for families and those living in flats or rented homes, where storage space is limited.

EPIKS aimed to support Kirklees residents in transitioning to cycling, promoting health, well-being, and green, traffic-free commuting spaces.

Thanks to funding from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, Kirklees, and One Community, EPIKS acquired two folding e-bikes, ideal for shared family use and easy storage.

Community Engagement

Focusing on communities near the Birkby-Bradley, Calder Valley, and Spen Valley Greenways, EPIKS collaborated with local groups, businesses, and organisations to ensure inclusivity and accessibility.

They offered in-person advice and produced an online guide, “How to Get the Right E-Bike.”

Throughout the summer, 150 people participated in 16 events to try out e-bikes, supported by Jim Gray and e-bike instructor Darren.

Jim noted the enthusiasm and empowerment experienced by participants who rediscovered cycling through e-bikes.

Future Plans

EPIKS plans to expand its active travel initiatives with the opening of travel hubs in Holmfirth, Huddersfield, Batley, and the Spen Valley in early 2025.

These hubs will offer resources and support for walking and cycling, including route advice, equipment, training, and group activities. EPIKS will also continue to promote active travel through regular events.