The UK is in lockdown to slow the spread of coronavirus but many bicycle shops are still open for business. Bicycle shops have been granted an exemption by the UK government allowing them to stay open because they provide an essential service to the general public. The Government’s official guidance on essential retailers can be found here.
Cycling is an increasingly important mode of transport in the UK and cycling is still important and accessible during these uncertain times. Bicycles are a good method of getting where you need to go if your travel is essential and bikes are also a good way of getting your daily exercise and maintaining fitness levels. Huge numbers of people are choosing to cycle as their form of daily exercise.
A number of cycling stores and businesses across Hackney, Islington and Tower Hamlets remain open:
- CarryMe Bikes are still open for business but only by appointment and customers are asked to call when they arrive. People in the vulnerable categories are asked to stay at home.
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SBC cycles are not taking services or repairs but they are booking appointments for custom bike and wheel builds. Please email them to enquire.
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London Bike Kitchen are still open for repairs and services. Their DIY workshop is closed.
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Big Fun Bikes are operating by appointment only. Please contact them via email about bike repairs and custom bikes.
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Halfords on Mile End Road near Stepney Green underground station remains open.
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Velorution stores are currently open but the Hackney workshop is closed. However the store at Islington is fully operational for service work and purchasing.
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Evans Cycles announced that they will be reopening 11 of their stores across the UK to help keep key workers on the move and provide assistance to people travelling by bike for essential journeys. The store at Canary Wharf is currently closed.
Bicycle shops are enacting a number of measures to ensure that the government's guidelines on social distancing and hygiene are maintained. Cyclists can also undertake some basic safety precautions to keep themselves safe.
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Maintain 2 metres distance from people at all times when cycling
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Wash hands regularly
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Clean contact points on bikes (grips and saddle) after use with soapy water
