In Memory of David Dansky

David Dansky was a close friend and colleague to us at Bikeworks.

Many will consider David to be the godfather of our Cycle Connect activities. He recognised early what riding alongside someone could make possible. Not as an adaptation, but as a different way of understanding cycling. Shared experience. Shared conversation. Shared freedom. The presence of side-by-side cycles in fleets across the UK, including our own, reflects that belief.

Photographer: Justin Thomas

He was also a defining voice in inclusive cycling and cycle training in the UK. As a founding member of Cycle Training UK (CTUK), he played a central role in shaping how cycle training developed nationally. His thinking influenced standards, instructors and organisations across the country. His contribution to the development of the Bikeability curriculum helped shape national practice. He also authored practical resources such as the Cycling Games Compendium, grounded in his belief that learning to ride should be engaging and rooted in real experience.

Jim first met David 20 years ago when we were setting up Bikeworks. Having been a teacher in a former life, David had a distinctive mentoring style. When you asked him a question, he often responded with one of his own. It was a powerful way of guiding people to think and take ownership of their decisions, a style we have all benefited from as peers, friends and colleagues.

David has left us with a powerful legacy. His influence can be seen directly in our work. He understood that the bicycle could be a tool for connection and freedom, particularly for people who had the most to benefit but might otherwise be excluded.

He was personable and able to connect with anyone. He carried intelligence lightly and had a great sense of humour.

The incredible response to David’s passing demonstrates how many within our community feel this loss deeply. Our thoughts are with his wife Clare, their family and friends.

We are proud to take forward the legacy created by David in the delivery of our community activities and development of our inclusive instructor and pilot training. At Bikeworks, our next chapter will continue to be shaped by his thinking.