Cycling and the city (part 2)

In the second part of our interview with Cycling mum Katriel Costello, she shares tips on cycling with kids, where to get advice if you're trying to get back in the saddle, and some great routes near her home town, Bristol.

Do you do any longer rides with the kids?
"Yes, the bike has plenty of gears, it goes fast, and we go on bike rides along the Bristol and Bath Railway Path, which has artworks, wildlife, beautiful canals, and, in the summer, the juiciest blackberries."

Trek Allant, the current alternative to the Navigator

Any tips for ladies thinking about cycling?
"If you haven’t ridden a bike for a while, Bikes Belles is worth a look. It's a campaign by Sustrans.

"Mud Dock run bike maintenance classes for women where you can learn how to change a puncture over a glass of wine: very civilised! Or you can go on a bike ride with Cycle Bristol CTC.

"I've found cycling is one of the best ways to keep in good shape, plus it’s kind on your purse and, of course, good for the environment as it means you're not driving. There’s no reason why you can’t ride a bike and still be glamorous.”

Can you recommend any cycling routes to inspire new riders?
"I've found lots of great routes around Bristol, but one of my favourites is to go over the Suspension Bridge, then down to Leigh Woods towards Pill. Come back down the path by the Gorge into town and stop for a cup of tea and cake somewhere.

“From Bath, there is a lovely ride along the canal path through to Bradford-on-Avon. And of course there is the Bath to Bristol cycle-path, a great route. It takes me about an hour and a half. And it’s flat all the way: perfect!”

The current alternative to the Navigator is the Trek Allant though some closeout stock is available of last year's Navigator - please call Mud Dock Cycleworks on 0117 929 2151 for availability and discounted RRPs.