Sport Bay of Plenty is piloting a new five-week cycle skills course designed to help adults become more cycle-savvy.

The practical course, designed for people new to cycling or those who haven't ridden a bike for a long time, will give participants the skills and confidence to ride on the road and on cycle paths around the region.

The course will start from Wednesday, October 28. Photo: Supplied.

Cyclists will learn about bike set up, how to fix a puncture, the use of gears, safe cycle skills, managing intersections and roundabouts and the great network of off-road trails around Tauranga.

The free course will run from Wednesday October 28, from 9.30am to 11am.

Sports Bay of Plenty recreation advisor Jen Riley says cycling is a great activity for all ages, and says while people may have learned to ride a bike as a child, many haven't ridden one since.

'Sport Bay of Plenty is keen to get these people back on their bikes and enjoying the numerous benefits that can be had from cycling,” says Jen.

'Not only is cycling great for your fitness and health, it's something the whole family can do.

'It's a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors and explore new places, it's good for the environment, you can stop and take in your surroundings and, most importantly, it can be a lot of fun.

'We are lucky here in Tauranga. Not only do we have a fantastic climate for cycling, but we also have a number of great trails that we can use to get around the city.

'This will only get better once the Omokoroa to Tauranga cycle way is completed.”

As well as upskilling people so they feel more confident to ride their bike around town, the course will also show participants how they can link these trails and the different parks and reserves around Tauranga.

For more information about this cycle skills course, or to register your interest, contact Jen Riley on: 578 0016, ext 829, or email: [email protected]