5 Signs We're On The Verge Of A Cycling Revolution

The eyes of the cycling industry have been on the Government over the past few days. Quite rightly, given the Transport Secretary’s announcement on 9 May of a ‘£2 billion package to create new era for cycling and walking’. Are we on the verge of a new cycling revolution in the UK? Here are 5 signs that we might just be.

1. Huge Government Boost

The £2 billion package (which is actually part of the £5 billion package of new funding announced for cycling and buses in February 2020) starts with a £250 million injection for local authorities to fund “pop-up bike lanes with protected space for cycling, wider pavements and safer junctions.” On top of that the Government has promised that “vouchers will be issued for cycle repairs, to encourage people to get their old bikes out of the shed, and plans are being developed for greater provision of bike fixing facilities.”

In summary, the Government’s announcement on 9 May represents the largest ever boost for cyclists in the UK. Whichever way you cut it, this is a huge positive for cycling participation in the country.

2. Consumer Interest Is Booming

Here are 5 charts showing search interest in the UK over the previous 3 years for the terms: road bikes, electric bikes, bicycle helmet, cycling jersey and strava.

3. Investors Are Betting Big On Britain’s Biggest Bike Retailer

Halfords is the UK’s biggest bike retailer. On 6 May it announced a boost in profits thanks to better than expected cycling sales. On 11 May shares in the retailer rose 26% after the Government’s announcement. Its shares are up 243% since mid-March.

4. Dramatic Rise In People Riding Bikes And Fall In Car Journeys

In his announcement the Transport Secretary said “there’s been a 70% rise in the number of people on bikes whether it’s for exercise, or necessary journeys, such as stocking up on food.”

Motor vehicle usage has halved and remains around the 50% level with public transport usage around 10% of pre-lockdown levels.

5. The Prime Minister Actively Supports Cycling

The current Prime Minister is a long-time supporter of cycling and even a cyclist himself. As London Mayor he oversaw the creation of considerable new cycling infrastructure for the city. One of his key advisers on transport now is Andrew Gilligan who was the cycling commissioner for London when Boris Johnson was mayor.

Get In Touch

Want to chat about the best way to engage this new generation of cyclists? Drop an email to oliver@wearefreeride.com or chris@wearefreeride.com. We'd love to say hello.