In 2024, Walk Wheel Ride brought the thrill and benefits of e-bikes to communities across Kirklees with our popular e-bike roadshow. From test rides to expert advice, hundreds of participants discovered how e-bikes can transform travel, improve health, and help achieve Net Zero goals.

Where We’ve Been
This year, our roadshow toured a variety of locations, including Dewsbury Country Park, the Spen Valley Greenway, Holmfirth Food and Drink Festival, Oakwell Hall Country Park, and many more. At every stop, visitors had the chance to test e-bikes, learn about their features, and find the right model for their needs.
Why E-Bikes Matter
The transport sector contributes 40% of the UK’s carbon emissions, making sustainable travel essential. E-bikes offer an affordable, low-carbon alternative that’s fast, efficient, and great for both physical and mental health. Folding e-bikes, in particular, provide flexibility for commuters and families alike—easily stored, transportable on trains, and perfect for “blended” travel.
By encouraging Kirklees residents to adopt e-bikes, Walk Wheel Ride is helping people reduce car use, enjoy traffic-free spaces, and explore greenways, all while boosting their health and independence.
What We Achieved
Thanks to funding from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and One Community, Walk Wheel Ride acquired versatile folding e-bikes that suit riders of various heights and lifestyles. Over the summer, we hosted 16 events, engaging with 150 people who gave e-bikes a try.
Through collaborations with local community groups and businesses, we ensured our activities were inclusive, well-publicised, and accessible. Alongside hands-on events, we created a helpful online guide, “How to Get the Right E-Bike”, to make informed choices even easier.
Jim Gray, our project lead, shared his enthusiasm:
“E-bikes open up so many possibilities for people—whether it’s commuting, exploring green spaces, or simply enjoying cycling with loved ones again. It’s especially rewarding to see how empowering and freeing this experience can be for those who haven’t cycled in years.”

What People Said
• Tracey: “I have health problems, so cycling felt like something I’d lost. Now I feel like I can ride with my family again.”
• Sajid: “I’m pre-diabetic and need more exercise. This has given me the confidence to spend active time with my son. Thank you!”
• Leanne: “I’d love to cycle to work. Trying the bikes made me look into the cycle-to-work scheme—it makes so much sense.”
• Andrew: “I’d forgotten how free cycling feels. I’ll definitely get an e-bike—I just wish I’d tried it sooner.”

Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond
Walk Wheel Ride has big plans for 2025! We’re opening new active travel hubs in Holmfirth, Huddersfield, Batley, and the Spen Valley. These hubs will provide everything you need to walk, cycle, or ride—routes, equipment, training, and group activities.
Stay tuned for updates on our website and social media, and join us in embracing healthier, greener ways to travel in Kirklees. You can also find cycling groups and instructors to get you started.
Keep an eye out for new events. Thank you for a brilliant 2024!