Iain Johnson, 38, aims to provide a different perspective on some of the stunning scenery surrounding the city through his fledgling venture, Cycle Yorkshire.

Mr Johnson, a fully-qualified mountain bike instructor, is offering basic cycle skills and maintenance courses as well as more advanced trips at picturesque venues throughout the district.

He said: "I have always been into bikes. I was a keen BMX rider in my youth and got into mountain biking after buying one to get me to and from work.

"I have completed many mountain bike adventure challenges and have got a lot out of it and aim to pass some of the things I have learned on to other people.

"You can travel to the Lake District, Scotland or Wales to take part in organised mountain biking - but we don't have very much around here.

"I think it is time we made use of some of the stunning countryside on Bradford's doorstep."

Cycle Yorkshire's basic level "Gears Module" in personal cycling skills is aimed at able-bodied or disabled children over the age of six, and adults looking to improve their riding skills.

The one-day course, which costs £45 per person, features tuition in basic maintenance and skills including effective gear-changing, cornering and bunny hopping!

All successful participants will receive a certificate at the end of the day, which will take place on a hard-surface location in the city.

One step up is the company's beginner's handling course, which will see participants take on the real spills and thrills of mountain biking - and the terrain, views and hills of Otley Chevin.

Mr Johnson said: "Participants will enjoy and experience beautiful scenery and great off-road riding at Otley Chevin and its surrounding bridleways.

"The course is a great way to start to develop the ability, confidence and safety awareness of mountain biking for all the family - as well as individuals.

"The terrain in the park is quite technical but not too demanding, so general fitness is a must for enjoyment."

The course will provide an insight into some of the vital skills needed to become a successful and safe mountain biker.

These will include ascending and descending techniques and tips and advice on negotiating multi-terrain single tracks and drop-offs - jumping from higher to lower ground.

Participants must be aged 12 or over.

More experienced mountain bikers can take advantage of Cycle Yorkshire's intermediate skills course.

This provides keen bikers the chance

to extend their skills in one of three

locations: St Ives country park in Bingley; Baildon Moor, Shipley or Ogden Water, Halifax.

Routes can be tailor-made or extended to fit in with the wishes of individuals or groups.

Mr Johnson is a fully-qualified first-aider and route details and names of all course participants will be left with his partner should an emergency arise.

And on both the beginners' and intermediate rides Mr Johnson will carry a state-of-the-art global positioning system should anything go wrong.

At the end of each ride, participants will receive a map telling them of the route they have taken and landmarks they may have passed on the way.

Reports of high-levels of obesity throughout the district - and nation as a whole - is something Mr Johnson believes needs to be addressed.

"Mountain biking provides a great work-out," he said.

"We need to get away from children playing computer games in front of the TV and give them a chance to enjoy the fantastic attractions Yorkshire has to offer.

"Once you have mastered the basics, there are countless, legal trails which criss-cross the district."

"However, you do not need to pay the earth for a suitable bike," he added.

"A decent bike which will cope with the rigours of the district's trails can be picked-up brand new for as little as £300."

The former pupil of Hanson School said: "Mountain biking is getting more and more popular. My mission is to help bring more people into a sport which allows you to see some fantastic scenery, aids fitness, and most important of all, is enormous fun.

"All our rides take place on bridleways and minor roads - there will be no destruction of delicate pathways or moorland.

"Cycle Yorkshire courses are perfect for youth groups and individuals looking

to find out more about the sport.

"Mountain bike racing is now an Olympic sport. The Bradford district has the perfect terrain to breed a mountain bike champion at the London games in 2012."

In the near future, Cycle Yorkshire will offer guided tours and evening rides.

Participants in all Cycle Yorkshire courses must provide their own mountain bike and safety equipment.

"I am very excited about the venture and looking forward to passing on my passion for the sport," said Mr Johnson.

Find out more about Cycle Yorkshire and how to book courses by visiting www.cycleyorkshire.co.uk.