Try-A-Bike loans in Camden

Our free bicycle loan scheme is for those who want to experience the advantages of cycling but do not yet have a bike of their own.

Loan bikes are available for around 30 days must be returned after a set period (around 30 days) and are not available for purchase.  

There has never been a better time to give cycling a go - roads are being made safer for walking and cycling all across Camden. 

Try-A-Bike is open to adults (18 years and over) who live, work or study in London Borough of Camden. Deposit payment and proof of identity required. Borrowers must store bikes securely overnight and are responsible for their safe use. Bike loans include locks and lights.  

We offer free cycle road safety training, too. Cycle with confidence - register for one of our training courses before or during your Try-A-Bike loan.  

Which type of bike?

We offer two types of bike for loan:

1. Dutch-style step-through pedal bicycle

Versatile, comfortable bikes for relaxed urban commuting and leisure cycling. Easy to ride, suitable for beginners and experienced cyclists.     

Cambridge Bobbin bike Gazelle Paris bike

2. Brompton Folding Bike

A folding bike may not be as quick and comfortable as a standard full-size bike, but is ideal for carrying, storing in tight spaces. and taking on public transport. For security, our Brompton bike should always be kept close to the rider and not be locked unattended in public places.  

Brompton folding bike

 

A secure place for overnight storage, proof of ID and a returnable deposit are required to secure a loan. 

Deposit amounts are £10 for Dutch-style pedal bikes, £50 for Bromptons.

Forthcoming handover Try-A-Bike handover dates are 

Collection Return  
Tuesday 23 May 2023 Tuesday 20 June 2023 waiting list open
Tuesday 20 June 2023 Tuesday 18 July 2023 waiting list open
Tuesday 18 July 2023 Tuesday 8 August 2023 waiting list open
     

Bike handovers are conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidance.  

Register for Try-A-Bike

During the bike loan

We are fortunate that we can offer Camden Try-A-Bike loans for a limited period at no cost to users. In return, we ask participants to use the cycles responsibly and carefully so that the same loans can be made available to many others, too.  

In particular, participants must:

  • keep cycles secure at all times, locking unattended bikes as instructed;
  • ride the cycles only for their intended purpose, ride within the limits of their ability, observe the highway code and other relevant obligations;
  • keep the cycles in roadworthy condition, inflate tyres when needed, carry out minor maintenancesuch as repairs of punctured tyresat their own cost; 
  • respond to all communication from Camden Try-A-Bike, and notify us of any major issues affecting the use of the cycle;    
  • return the bike at the end of the loan period at the place and time notified.

We will sign a loan agreement with details of deposit paid, and of bike and equipment loaned.

Cycles will be fitted to suit the size of the rider. 

Riders must demonstrate they can safely control the bike. We recommend signing up for free Camden Cycle Skills training.  

In the event of loss or theft the police must be notified immediately. Camden Try-A-Bike must be notified as soon as possible.  If damage or loss are due to negligence on part of the user, such as not securing the bike, LB Camden will recoup the value of the loss.    

If you find cycling a positive experience, we would encourage you to buy a suitable bike from a trader of your choice.  

Register for Try-A-Bike