The South Downs National Park is now more accessible than ever with the launch of the Electric Bike Network, giving visitors and residents the opportunity to explore the landscape without too much effort!
Launched in April 2012, ebikes can be hired and charged at a number of points in the Western end of the National Park, allowing visitors to explore and take in the tranquillity of the downs. Between hire points are picture perfect villages, hidden valleys and cultural attractions, where visitors can find out more about people who have lived and worked in the area, including Jane Austen and Gilbert White.
Riders can charge up their ebike at stop-off points while enjoying the region's finest food or drink. It is hoped that this will increase custom for local outlets, while reducing pollution and congestion on the roads.
To find out where you can hire an electric bike go to the Electric Bike Network Website www.electricbicyclenetwork.com
Cycling is one of the most popular reasons for visiting the South Downs. There is approximately 1,200 kilometres of public bridleway including the South Downs Way, the only National Trail that can be ridden its entire length. There are also sites that have specifically designed mountain biking trails.
The SDNPA trails will give you plenty of ideas for short trips or all-day adventures. We also have information about bike hire companies in the South Downs area.
While cycling is fun, exciting and occasionally exhilarating, for your own safety and the safety of others please do follow these simple commonsense guidelines:
Safety
- Ride under control downhill
- Take care on unstable or wet surfaces
- Wear a helmet
- Be considerate of other users ~ Slow down and signal your approach
- Ensure that your bike is safe and be prepared for emergencies
- Put your lights on in poor visibility
- Tell someone where you are going
- Learn first aid
- Wear reflective materials
Enjoying the South Downs
- Keep to Bridleways, Byways and special cycle routes
- Plan your route (use O.S. 1:25,000 pathfinder or explorer series maps)
- Always carry a map
- Guard against fire
- Fasten all gates
- Leave livestock, crops and machinery alone
- Take your litter home
- Do not damage wildlife, plants and trees
- Take special care on country roads
Other Information
On the Sustrans website, you can download National Cycle Network routes and print them out on 1:50,000 scale Ordnance Survey-based maps.
Bicycle Association
Tel: 02476 553 838
British Cycling
Tel: 0161 230 2301
British Schools Cycling Association
Tel: 01705 642 226
Cyclist's Touring Club
Tel: 01483 417217
Sustrans - National Cycle Network
0117 929 0888
© South Downs National Park Authority - Copyright 2011