MaxTrax CIC’s Cycling Through Time project aims to preserve and celebrate Openshaw’s rich 1800s cycling heritage – a vital yet endangered part of Manchester’s industrial and social history.

In the late 19th century, following the 1885 invention of the safety bicycle, Openshaw became a vibrant centre for cycling culture. Workers used bicycles for commuting, leisure, and social bonding. Cycling clubs flourished, races were held, and canal towpaths became popular cycling routes. This heritage reflects resilience, community spirit, and innovation during Manchester’s industrial growth.

Through archival research, oral histories,  workshops, exhibitions, and a community cycling festival, we will engage residents – particularly young people and disadvantaged groups – to foster pride and cohesion.

We will safeguard this at-risk heritage by:

• Digitising  records

• Collecting  oral histories

• Mapping historical cycling routes