Over 40,000 riders expected at Freewheel 2009

Although its name appears to change on an almost annual basis – it was launched two years ago as the Freewheel, but has since been rebranded as the Skyride at the new sponsor’s request – the mass-participation bike ride that takes place in London on Sunday 20th September looks set to attract over 40,000 cyclists.

The Freewheel is a 14km route through central London that is closed to motorised traffic. The ride is billed as a celebration of cycling and is intended as a family day out for novice and seasoned cyclists alike.

No need to register for Skyride

The event organisers encourage riders to register before the event, but it is not a requirement – you can turn up on your bike at any time between 9.30am to 4.30pm on Sunday 20th September. The route will take you past major landmarks including Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London.

A spokesperson for the Environmental Transport Association (ETA) said: “This is a unique opportunity to see a beautiful city from the tranquillity of roads completely closed to motorised traffic – let’s hope the weather is as glorious as it was at the Freewheels in 2007 and 2008.”

Do cyclists need insurance?

Bikes are vulnerable to theft and in the case of an accident you may need to seek compensation or even deal with a claim against you. Cycle insurance from the ilovemybike.co.uk is fully comprehensive and costs from as little as 33 pence a day.

At no extra cost, it includes new-for-old replacement and accidental damage (including cover for race events), third party insurance, personal accident cover and if you breakdown, they even come out and recover you and your bike.