Swap four wheels for two
Summer might be over, but the adventure doesn’t have to end. With half of the UK’s car trips being under 5 miles*, hopping on a bike is the small change that could make a big difference.
So why not hop on the saddle and see where you could go… perhaps stop for a warm coffee on the way back from work (win!) or hop off at the park for an impromptu kick-about. The possibilities for adventure – and your health – are endless when you swap four wheels for two. Why not see where the journey could take you?
We’ve given away 112 e-bikes!
Throughout the summer, we powered up countless adventures by giving away 112 pedal-assist e-bikes with electric motors. Our giveaway may be over, but the spirit of adventure continues. Where our winners go is up to them!
Already have a bike?
New Bike Maintenance Stands from Esso
Esso is on a mission to help people make fewer car journeys by encouraging motorists use bikes for travel whenever possible. To help customers on their journeys Esso have installed Bike Maintenance Stands at selected Esso branded service stations across the UK. Stop by and find bike pumps and handy tools for on-the-go repairs.
Check out our How To Guide videos to learn how you can use the Bike Maintenance Stands, and to find your nearest participating site.
Bike Maintenance Stand Challenge
Watch professional mountain biker and Red Bull Athlete, Matt Jones, take on AI in this Bike Maintenance Stand quiz.
Matt Jones’ pro tips to get an old bike road ready
Why swap a drive for a ride?
Check your bike, it’s as easy as A,B,C
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A is for Air
Check your tyres are pumped up properly with a quick squeeze - they should be firm to the touch. Don’t know the correct pressure? Get a pump with a pressure gauge and inflate your tyres to the PSI or BAR pressure shown on the side wall of your tyres.
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B is for Brakes
First, pull the front brake. Then push the bike forward and see if the back wheel lifts off the ground. Next, pull the back brake. Then pull the bike backwards and see if the front wheel lifts off the ground. If this doesn’t happen, your brakes need tightening.
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C is for Chain
Every so often, clean your chain with a degreaser and oil it. Turn the pedals backwards and check the chain clicks at regular intervals. Watch out for rust or stiff links, which can mean your chain needs replacing.
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Biking-it Kit List
Helmet
A helmet is essential protection – and wearing it correctly is the key. Make sure it fits snugly round your head and sits level. It should cover your forehead and the straps should hold firm under your chin and around the sides of your head without being uncomfortably tight.
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Lock
Keep your bike safe as can be with a top-notch bike lock. Investing in a quality lock is worth every penny to discourage thieves.
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Bike lights & a bell
Bike lights are a legal requirement – fit white lights at the front, red at the back. Dawn, dusk, after-dark or in poor visibility, lights help you see your way and help other road users see you. Reflectors - red at the rear and amber on the pedals - are also required. New bikes come equipped with them and, if you lose one, it’s easy to replace. A bike bell is also recommended so you can alert people to your presence.
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Bike pump
A full-size pump is a great solution at home – one with a gauge will help you get the right tyre pressure. To inflate your tyres on the go, keep a mini-pump in your backpack, bike bag or pocket.
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Mudguards
If the roads are wet, your feet, lower legs and seat can get very damp and cold. Fitting mudguards – also called fenders – will help you stay drier, warmer and protect parts of your bike from water damage.
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Bags & storage
Whether you need a saddle bag for spare parts or racks and panniers for larger loads like groceries, think about what luggage you might need.