Aspiring cyclists of all ages in Croydon can look forward to getting a great quality bike at an affordable price as the council launches a series of second-hand bike markets throughout August.
The markets are run by the council in partnership with local Croydon business Peddle My Wheels, who facilitate fixing up and selling the bikes on behalf of the original owner. Residents are encouraged to bring their old bikes that would normally be collecting dust to have them fixed up and sold on their behalf, making some extra cash while ensuring the bikes go to good use.
Expert mechanics service all the bikes to make sure they are safe and ready to ride for those coming to purchase.
“These bike markets are excellent for the borough because they create an affordable option for those who might not be able to purchase their own bike. One of our key transport ambitions is to get even more people cycling and reduce congestion on our roads. This improves air quality, reduces our emissions and helps improve residents’ health.
For anyone with growing children, recycling unused bikes back into the local community is a fantastic way to keep kids cycling without breaking the bank.”
Councillor Muhammad Ali, cabinet member for sustainable Croydon
As part of the borough’s cycling offer, Croydon also takes part in Peddle My Wheels successful Try Before You Bike scheme, which saw massive success during the pandemic as people flocked to cycling as a Covid-safe, low-cost activity and alternative to public transport.
Peddle My Wheels is a local business success story, having been recipients of the Croydon Enterprise Loan Fund in 2018. Through the funding, the business was able to purchase their workshop in Selhurst, growing their capacity to expand across London, where they are now running these schemes in 23 other boroughs.
Alper Muduroglu, founder of Peddle My Wheels said, “We aim to run a socially, ethically, and environmentally responsible business – and to get as many people cycling as possible. The key characteristic is affordability – bikes are quite difficult to get rid of, you can’t take them to charity shops – so these markets allow for used bikes to be recycled. We want people who would have old bikes kicking around to bring them to us and we can service them and sell them on their behalf, ensuring they go to good use in the community”.
The first market will take place from 10am – 4pm on Saturday 14 August in Westow Park. For more information on the markets and a list of other dates, visit the council website.
