For someone new to Bath, and needing any excuse to do something active, the launch of the Nextbike Bath bikes really are a great idea.
I spent an hour cycling around the city in the warm and lovely sunshine, seeing the sights of the city from two wheels, and feeling the strain in my legs as I cycled to viewpoints above Bath.
The bikes, which can be picked up from nine stations around the city, are all-rounded town bikes that are quick to get going.
They are heavy but it's not like you should be needing to lift them up. Considering the speed you can also pick up on them, I found the brakes to be not as sensitive as I would have liked, and as I almost embarrassingly found out when riding downhill.
These are the alternative to trying to get around the city though which is quite small. Nothing is too far away and it might not be particularly necessary to use your car during the day. Cycling is of course quicker than walking and much greener for the planet than driving.
The bike ride was comfy, and I wasn't feeling numb even after an hour of cycling either.
It was a pleasant experience and a great way to discover a little more about the city, and find new areas maybe. I would definitely recommend for tourists especially.
I've not heard great things about London's Boris Bikes, so maybe ours are the best thing on two wheels.
