Coventry
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Next ride
Date: Saturday 28th May 2022 - **Note new date**
Time: Meet at 1pm, ride at 2pm
Location: Assemble in the car park of the Criterion Theatre, Berkeley Road South, CV5 6EF - **Note new start point**
Ride information
Route
The route is approximately 8 miles long, taking in much of the city centre and as many landmarks as we can.
It is likely to differ from the 2021 route (and therefore from the image below) as we will have to avoid road closures caused by BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend.
Finish: Ride ends back at the Criterion Theatre.
Bike hire
West Midlands Cycle Hire is now operational in Coventry and there is even a docking station on Hearsall Common, less than half a mile from the start/finish point. All the information can be found here.
Ride reports
2021
After efforts to get the ride off the ground in 2020 were cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the WNBR finally hit the streets of Coventry for the first time in August 2021.
The day of the ride saw heavy clouds and cool temperatures, with a brief downpour just as riders were undressing - although, fortunately, the thunderstorms that had been forecast did not materialise! Despite the conditions, 32 riders happily disrobed and saddled up, with a good mixture of old faces from other rides and a few first-timers. There was even a small group of spectators at the start who had turned out specifically to cheer us on our way.
The 8.5 mile route took in most of the city centre, although we were unable to pay a visit to the statue of Lady Godiva due to a conflicting event. Although there weren't many people on the streets because of the bad weather, those who did see the ride were largely positive in their reactions, with West Midlands Police on hand to deal with any objecters who got a bit too boisterous.
All in all, the ride was a great success and seemed to be enjoyed by everyone who took part.
Huge thanks to the marshals who volunteered their time to ensure the ride ran smoothly and for everyone else for turning up and joining in despite the weather.
Media coverage
2022
- Coventry Telegraph, 29 Apr 2022: "Coventry's naked bike ride to clash with BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend"
2021
- Coventry Telegraph, 6 Jul 2021: "Cycle safety protest coming to Coventry...and campaigners will be NAKED"
- Coventry Observer, 28 Jul 2021: "World Naked Bike Ride heading to Coventry for the first time"
- Coventry Telegraph, 8 Aug 2021: "Coventry's first naked cycle ride takes to the city streets"
- Coventry Telegraph, 8 Aug 2021: "Naked bike ride protest in Coventry"
- Daily Star, 8 Aug 2021: "Inside naked bike ride as brave cyclists strip off for nude protest"
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