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OPSS translates e-bike safety videos to improve accessibility

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has translated its e-bike and e-scooter safety guidance videos into multiple languages to improve accessibility for delivery riders and other...

19 Mar 2025, more…

UK Government issues renewed warning on dangerous UPP e-bike batteries

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued a fresh warning about the dangers of UPP e-bike batteries, urging consumers to stop using them immediately.

4 Mar 2025, more…

Independent cycle shop becomes first retailer to stock new local bike brand

Independent cycling retailer and ACT member Velo Fit has become the first to stock a new brand of bikes focused on combining quality and affordability.

28 Feb 2025, more…

Cargo e-bike logistics company enters administration following failure to find new funding

Electric cargo bike firm Zedify is set to enter administration following a failed search for new funding, after aiming to be active in 50 cities over the next few years.

19 Feb 2025, more…

UK Government removes tariffs on Chinese e-bikes sparking concerns for domestic industry

The UK Government has removed anti-dumping tariffs on non-folding e-bikes imported from China in a move that has raised alarm within the UK’s cycling industry over potential market...

14 Feb 2025, more…

Free webinar exclusive to ACT members on employment law compliance

The ACT and legal partner WorkNest are hosting an exclusive webinar on how to remain compliant with employment law while making necessary business changes.

4 Feb 2025, more…

Government publishes research on e-bike battery safety

New independent research has confirmed OEM e-bikes are effectively exempt from risk of battery fires, with unsafe post-purchase replacement batteries, conversion kits, and other equipment that...

31 Jan 2025, more…

Government rejects 500w e-Bike proposal and suggested changes to throttle assistance after consultation

The UK Government has decided not to go ahead with proposals to increase the maximum power output of e-Bikes to 500W and to permit throttle assistance following a lengthy consultation process.

31 Jan 2025, more…

Australian Cytech training provider visits UK centres for productive exchanges of insight and ideas

Cytech's Australian training provider The Bicycle Academy,  which delivers their courses in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth, paid visits to UK Cytech centres late last year...

22 Jan 2025, more…

ACT to deliver talk on challenges and opportunities in UK cycle industry as iceBike* seminars announced

The ACT is set to deliver a seminar at both the North and South iceBike* events discussing the current challenges and opportunities facing the UK cycle industry.

21 Jan 2025, more…

Local cycling hubs to close as UK manufacturer looks to support independent bike dealers

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Local cycling hubs to close as UK manufacturer looks to support independent bike dealers

Posted on 22 Oct 2024

UK cycling manufacturer Whyte Bikes has announced the closure of its three cycling experience hubs following a major shift in the company’s strategy, which includes supporting independent bike dealers, under its new ownership.

Swinley Forest Cycling Hub

The centres, including Quench Cycles at Bedgebury Forest, the bike hire concession at High Lodge in Thetford Forest and the Swinley Forest Bike Hub, will all cease operating by the end of October under the current ownership as Whyte Bikes seeks a potential buyer of the locations.

The closures mark a shift in Whyte Bikes’ plans for the hubs, which were initially acquired to expand the company’s customer engagement through experience centres that allowed riders to test and hire bicycles in unique outdoor settings. Whyte Bikes took on the site at Swinley Forest less than 12 months ago, however the company is now intending to turn its focus onto supporting independent bike dealers and international distributors.

In a statement, Nikki Hawyes, who became CEO of Whyte Bikes in February this year, explained the rationale behind the decision. She said: "Our focus remains on supporting independent bike dealers in the UK, as well as our valued international distributors. The hire and experience centres, while beneficial in some ways, do not align with our core business goals. We aim to provide a clearer vision for our Independent Bicycle Dealers and distributors."

Despite the closures, mountain bike specialist Whyte Bikes is set to continue offering demo rides through its dealership network at dealer-led events.

The closure of Swinley Forest Bike Hub, which offers bike rentals, maintenance services and coaching sessions, has been met with disappointment from regular attendees, with many expressing concern over the hub's future. Whyte Bikes has stated that its goal is to ensure a smooth transition that benefits both the business and the local cycling communities these hubs serve.

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