Sister Spokes
A Bike Library for Women Rebuilding Life After Custody
“Sister Spokes Bike Library” is a community project that helps women rebuild confidence, independence, and freedom through cycling after leaving custody.
We know that getting life back on track can be challenging — from transport costs to social isolation. Sister Spokes offers practical help and support that women can move forward at their own pace.
Run by Ebike Freedom CIC and funded by SPT People and Place Programme Community Fund, we provides free access to bikes and basic equipment and friendly guidance, helping women reconnect with their communities, rebuild trust, and enjoy the simple freedom of being on two wheels.
Who It’s For
Sister Spokes is for women after custody — whether recently released or serving community sentences — who want to rebuild confidence, wellbeing, and independence.
We provide safe, stigma-free bike equipment to support women:
Travel to appointments, training, or work without cost barriers
Rebuild physical and mental wellbeing through cycling
We’ll help you find a bike that fits, show you basic safety checks.
How It Works
We currently have 10 bikes available for free loan. Adult and small-frame bikes are available, along with helmets, locks, and lights.
Each loan lasts for up to three months, completely free of charge. At the end of your loan, you can either return your bike or ask to renew if no one is waiting.
Membership is also free, you just need to show your photographic ID and sign up at the library itself. This is often done when you loan your first bike. Demand is high so there can sometimes be a bit of a wait.
What’s Included
Free loan of a bike for up to 3 months
Helmet, lock, and basic accessories provided
Basic bike checks and small repairs included
How to Join
To book a bike, please send us the following details:
Name
Email
Phone number
Height (in cm for bike sizing)
Please specify “Sister Spokes” in the subject.
You can also visit the hub during our opening hours — we’ll help you get started.
Bike Library for Women Rebuilding Life After Custody
Member Agreement
The rent a bike from us, you need to agree:
Use lights at night and follow the Highway Code.
Always lock the bike when unattended (a lock is provided).
Report any loss or theft immediately; we’ll support you through it.
Return the bike clean and on time so other women can borrow.
You ride at your own risk — helmets are strongly recommended.
Sister Spokes isn’t just about transport — it’s about community and growth. We wish to expand our work to women-only confidence rides, gentle group cycles, and bike-maintenance sessions where members can learn, share stories, and support one another.
Volunteers and partner organisations are welcome. If you’d like to help maintain bikes, lead rides, or provide mentoring, we’d love to hear from you.
