The journalist joined pupils at Sciennes Primary School in Edinburgh to encourage mums, dads and youngsters to take part in the annual bike ride which this year is in aid of the STV Appeal.
The family part of the ride follows the last nine miles of the freshnlo Pedal for Scotland route and Rona and her family will be getting in the saddle on Sunday, September 8 and taking part.
Speaking at the launch, Rona Dougall said: “Cycling is the perfect way to stay active and this event is a great opportunity for the whole family to get on their bikes.
“The Edinburgh Family Ride for this year's freshnlo Pedal for Scotland on September 8 is a family-friendly nine mile route finishing at Murrayfield and is ideal for beginners and experienced cyclists.
“Families can even raise money for the official charity partner, STV Appeal, this year so as well as being active the whole family can raise money for children and young people affected by poverty."
The STV Appeal was founded in 2011 between STV and The Hunter Foundation to help children and young people affected by poverty in Scotland.
The charity not only fundraises and invests in projects but raises awareness and challenges the stereotypes attached to child poverty.
Chief executive of Cycling Scotland, Ian Aitken, said: “We are really excited to bring back the Edinburgh Family Ride this year. With our Give Me Cycle Space and Bikeability Scotland campaigns we have seen a big increase in children wanting to get out on their bikes and this is a great opportunity for them to be involved in a great cycling event with their families.”
The family cycle will begin at Kirkliston Leisure Centre but transport to the centre from Murrayfield Stadium will be provided.
The route is almost traffic-free, following cycle paths and countryside lanes making it suitable for younger children and new cyclists.
Transport Minister Keith Brown added: "This event is a great opportunity for parents and children across Edinburgh to get on their bikes this summer and will hopefully encourage people to choose cycling as an everyday travel choice which is fun and enjoyable.
“It goes without saying that cycling and walking benefits the individual with not just physical benefits, but benefits for mental health, the environment and keeping people's transport costs down.
“The Scottish Government is committed to making it easier for more people and children to incorporate active travel choices into their daily routines by cycling and walking.”
Entry for the family cycle costs £8 for adults and £5 for children. A family ticket is also available with entry for two adults and three children costing £19.
You can purchase tickets in advance online at www.pedalforscotland.org.
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