Testimonials
Sunny Cycles Stories: Real People, Real Rides
Cycling can change your day – sometimes your life.
At Sunny Cycles, every pedal stroke tells a story. From first rides in years to new friendships and rediscovered freedom, our riders, families, and partners share how cycling with us has transformed their health, confidence, and sense of community.
Explore their journeys below – real people, real rides, and real joy on wheels.
Sheena - Regular Cyclist
I’ll admit, I was a bit sceptical when I was first persuaded to join a Sunny Cycles Friday Women’s Ride. I’d tried cycling before, and let’s just say the experience didn’t exactly make me want to start training for the Tour de France. But, when I was gently nudged (okay, enthusiastically persuaded) to hop on a bike and do a lap around a car park, I thought, “Why not? What could go wrong?”
Well, to my surprise, it was actually fun! Carol, our Ride Leader, made sure I understood all the basics – from bike safety to using the gears – and suddenly, I was off! At the end of the ride I felt a real sense of achievement and was keen to return the following week. I’ve since started to ride with the group based in Victoria Park – another group of friendly, adventurous souls.
Fast forward to today: I've got my own bike, I'm confidently cycling solo, and I’ve started exploring Glasgow and all its cycle paths. Cycling has done wonders for my fitness and my general sense of well-being. Plus, I now enjoy getting out in all kinds of weather – it turns out a little rain doesn’t hurt.
What makes Sunny Cycles stand out? The Ride Leaders are patient, fun, and always make sure no one gets left behind. Whether you’re a cycling pro or a complete beginner, the group rides are all about getting out on your bike, enjoying the fresh air and just enjoying the ride. There’s a real sense of camaraderie. Access to free, well maintained bikes has been crucial to my continued participation in cycling and definitely helps to encourage people from diverse backgrounds and mixed abilities to come along and give cycling a go.
Julie Geddes - Oakminster Care Homes
At Oakminster Healthcare, we strive to support both the physical well-being and emotional upliftment of our residents. Our partnership with Sunny Cycles has been truly transformative.
Sunny Cycles brought incredible energy to our community, giving residents of all abilities the chance to experience the freedom, joy, and nostalgia of cycling once again. For many, the idea of cycling had seemed like a distant memory—until Sunny Cycles made the impossible possible.
We watched in awe as residents, some well into their 90s, rediscovered the simple delight of a bike ride. One resident, glowing with joy after her first session, exclaimed, “I never thought at 96 years old I would be back on a bike. Marvellous, absolutely marvellous!”
This wasn’t just about exercise—it was about inclusion, empowerment, and renewed confidence. Adaptive cycles, patient encouragement, and a positive, welcoming atmosphere ensured that every resident felt valued and capable.
The smiles, laughter, and excitement that Sunny Cycles brought were extraordinary. For some, it was a chance to feel the wind in their hair again. For others, it was a reminder that new experiences are always possible.
Sunny Cycles has redefined what’s possible for our residents, showing that age and ability are no barriers to the joy of cycling. Their impact on physical health, mental well-being, and community spirit has been immeasurable.
Thank you, Sunny Cycles, for helping our residents rediscover the magic of cycling!
Chris McMullen - OPEKA
I can wholeheartedly vouch for Sunny Cycles on both a professional and personal level. As a charity coordinator and a supporter of my brother, who has additional support needs, I have seen firsthand the incredible impact of their work.
For the past two years, Sunny Cycles has demonstrated remarkable patience, professionalism, and kindness, helping my brother develop his cycling skills in ways I never thought possible. Their dedication had such a profound effect on me that I have continued working closely with them, organising cycling activities for adults with additional support needs—sessions that our participants greatly enjoy.
Sunny Cycles is built on a foundation of excellence and transparency, giving our charity complete confidence in their ability to facilitate engaging and well-organised activities. Their ethos closely aligns with ours, and I have no doubt that their work will continue to make a significant and positive impact on the community.
Sunny Cycles is truly instrumental in improving the lives of those who are disadvantaged, and I wholeheartedly support their mission.
Be part of our next story
Whether you’re a cyclist, volunteer, or supporter, you can help more people experience the freedom and joy of cycling.