Leisure Kicks - The essencial sport and leisure guide

Cycling is taken up for all sorts of reasons, whether it’s as the cheapest way to get to work, a leisurely way to enjoy some beautiful scenery or as a fiercely competitive racing sport. 

Cycling as a sport has come a long way since its introduction in the 19th century, initially as a form of transportation. There are now various disciplines whether it be road, track, BMX, mountain biking, cyclo-cross or cycle speedway. The different disciplines all feature different skill sets, meaning that whether you’re a sprinter, a rough terrain-lover or a long-distance cyclist, there is something for everyone. The only downside to cycling is that the cost of good equipment – the bike itself in particular – can be high, but as any seasoned cyclist will tell you, a good bike pays for itself in the long run, especially if you are using it as a mode of transport to and from work. 

The sport in all its forms also provides an incredible spectator experience. If you’ve ever heard the roar of a crowd fly around a velodrome or seen the leaders in the Tour de France rush over a distant hill, you would have to agree that there are few sports more exciting to watch. Not only that, but Britain is littered with all the cycling heroes a budding biker could want. 

Choose your sport

Road cycling: one of four Olympic cycling disciplines