Our Journey

Island Bikes began during the lockdown as a grassroots movement to bring people together through fitness, freedom and community. With restrictions in place and a national push to stay active, we started by refurbishing pre-loved bikes, re-homing them across East London, and hosting scenic group rides around the city. From Hyde Park loops to quiet streets during the pandemic, we helped people stay moving, connected and grounded, one ride at a time.

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The Growth

By October 2022, we had opened our first official space, offering bike assessments and repairs while continuing our growing cycle club. We introduced a weekly run club, collaborated with Marchon Gym for strength classes, and welcomed over 300 active members from the local area. Supported by more than 20 local businesses, we launched branded t-shirts, hosted pop-ups and delivered bigger, more inclusive events that reflected the energy of our community.

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The Hub

In 2024, we opened a new site in the heart of Stratford, positioned along the Cycle Superhighway. The space became a hub for premium bike servicing, a casual co-working space with coffee and Wi-Fi, and a home for evening events, workshops and wellness meet-ups. Whether you came for a ride, a repair or a good conversation

Island Bikes became a trusted community base.​

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Island Bikes CIC​​

In 2025, Island Bikes officially became a Community Interest Company (CIC) - a move that formalised what we’ve always been about: using cycling and movement to create positive change. Becoming a CIC allows us to grow with purpose, access funding, and reinvest every penny into free spin classes, youth programmes, cycling confidence sessions and community outreach.

With a proven track record and a growing local impact, Island Bikes CIC is now built for long-term community benefit - and we’re just getting started.