Day-Trippers Society

The Day-Trippers Society promotes casual cycling in a fun and safe environment. It’s a great way to get out and enjoy the city of Manchester for those that love cycling, but hate lycra. Ben Parker is the Chair of the Society, ‘There was no society for the simple commuter/casual cyclist, so last year I decided to start one up, at the moment we have 150 members and everyone and anyone is welcome to come along and get involved.”

The society organises regular cycling trips in and around Manchester, usually to a pub or cafe, so it’s a great way to get to know the city and to get out of  the ‘Fallowfield bubble.’ As well as these regular trips the society is also trying to organise bike workshops: ‘These are workshops where people are taught how to fix their own bikes for free, except for the cost of parts. We aim to have a full set of tools by Christmas, so we can hold workshops every Saturday and Sunday.”

The Cycling Society also takes part in ‘Critical Mass’, each month. This is where 300-400 cyclists take to the streets of Manchester and clog up the city centre for an hour or two. Originally started in San Francisco in 1992, ‘Critical Mass’ now takes place in over 300 cities around the world. It is organised as a social movement, where a local picks a date, time and a place and people just get cycling.

Most societies hold socials as separate events, but the Day-Trippers Society sees its cycle trips as its social. “Cycling is such a great way for people to meet one another and share their passion for cycling. But for all the party animals out there we are organising a Christmas party which will be announced shortly.”

If you want to get involved with the society of ‘Critical Mass’ then look at their Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/mudsoc?fref=tsor email Ben Parker: [email protected]