About Lessons
Elaine getting her bike legs back
"I had my first experience the other day with riding a bike again. I'm in my late 60's and haven't been on a bike in decades! Initially it was wobble, wobble, riding down a nearby street. Susanna was patient, specific with instructions, knowledgeable and unflappable. It took about 1/2 an hour for me to feel more steady on the bike and to remember how to ride. It turned out to be a good experience! I realized it could be fun, and great exercise.”
Elaine W. “When I moved to Victoria from snowy Alberta, I had visions of taking up bike riding for exercise and fun. My enthusiasm was a little premature since I hadn't been on a bike for well over 50 years. I bought a lovely “Townie” bike and called Susanna with hope and a lot of fear. She was wonderful -- endlessly patient and helpful in getting me past my fears. She is a great teacher and really knows everything there is to know about bikes and bike riding. My plan is now to get an adult trike!” Janice W. This morning I had my lesson with Susanna. Excellent experience, teaching, practices, and excellent advice. Susanna was also able to give me the confidence I so much needed; I so appreciate this. I learned so much and what a wonderful teacher she is. Susanna is the teacher I needed for my road practice, as downtown ain’t for me! Thank you again! Marietta B. |
Cycling lessons can be taught in different formats, depending on - and tailored to - your individual skill, fitness, knowledge and comfort level.
All experience levels can be accommodated, from beginner to bike commuter: * You don't know how to ride a bike, but want to finally learn * You haven't ridden a bike for YEARS, and need to get comfortable again. * You only ride recreationally, but want to start riding to work or to do errands. * You ride on roads, but avoid traffic and busy areas Lessons are typically taught in one and a half hour blocks of time. Initially we will start in a parking lot, where bike fit and bicycle safety are checked, and your bike handling skills are assessed. After that, things progress at your pace. You may need some practice riding in the safety of a parking lot; this can take a lesson or two. Or - you may be ready to head onto the streets. Before that, we will review principles of cycling on roads and in traffic. Then - start out on quiet streets and progress to busier ones. If you prefer only riding on the Galloping Goose, that's OK too. It is all up to you. You will not be pressured into doing anything you are uncomfortable with (OK, a bit of friendly pressure is often needed). Lessons are $65 for 1.5 hrs or $120 for a 2-lesson package (recommended for brand new cyclists). A free bicycle and helmet rental are included in the cost. If you are 50+ years young, you may be interested in the new Bike Freedom 50+ program, designed especially for older adults getting back into cycling. A variety of workshops will run in the spring and summer, on finding the right bike, nice places to ride, riding groups, bike skills, bike maintenance and more. Visit bikefreedom.ca for more information.
"Susanna: I just want to tell you that I am now able to ride around the neighbourhood without falling off my bike! I’ve not been out that much since the weather turned cold but through the summer and fall, I got out just about every day--first just going downhill through the kids’ park nearby and then in the back streets. I feel confident now that when I get back on in the spring I won’t have to learn all over again.
Thank you for all your help!" Uma K. You can read Uma's blogpost about her lesson here. |
