Tips and inspiration
- Join a community cycle group or start one in your school or workplace. You can swap safety tips and route recommendations or find a buddy to boost your confidence on rides.
- Various national organisations around the world want to help more people get into cycling, including Cycling UK, The League of American Bicyclists and Australia’s Bicycle Network. They provide a variety of resources and services to support cyclists, build bike-friendly communities and make it easier for people to ride bikes.
- If you’re not quite ready for the road, browse the UK's National Cycle Network on the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust’s website to find traffic-free routes where you can practice.
- Visit your local council’s website or the Bikeability website to find cycle training providers near you in the UK. The National Standards for Cycling Training includes courses for adults, families and kids. If you’re in the USA, check out Smart Cycling’s programme.
- Check your bike is safe to ride and learn some simple maintenance to keep it in good condition. Search for free Dr Bike sessions from Cycling UK. Community cycling projects also often offer basic maintenance support.
- If you’re considering commuting by bike, check whether your employer offers any relevant benefits or incentives. In the UK, the Cycle to Work government scheme offers tax savings and helps spread the cost of new equipment.
The big picture
Transport is a major consumer of fossil fuels and emitter of greenhouse gases. International research found that, across seven European cities, car travel accounted for 70% of carbon dioxide emissions. Active travel – walking or cycling – can significantly reduce this, with analysis showing cyclists had 84% lower carbon dioxide emissions for all their daily travel compared to non-cyclists.
Image © Dani Ber/ Shutterstock
Why is this action beneficial?
Improves health
Cycling can be easily incorporated into daily routines to help you fulfil the recommended minimum of 150 minutes of physical activity each week. The proven health benefits of bike use are wide ranging, from a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and obesity to improved mental health.
Reduces emissions
Switching from driving a car to cycling for just one trip per day for 200 days could reduce your carbon footprint by about 500 kilogrammes according to research by the University of Oxford’s Transport Studies Unit. That’s the equivalent of a flight from Luton to Glasgow, or Atlanta to Louisville.
Strengthens community
Research has shown that bike use is positively linked with social cohesion. Cyclists are more concerned with the common good, including helping their neighbours and participating in politics, according to a study conducted in Germany.
Reduces pollution
A 2024 review of the harm caused by cars mentions a long list of pollutants. These include noxious gases, chemicals and particles from fuel emissions, plus microplastics, metal and oil contamination from the wear of tyres and brakes. Noise pollution is another harmful side effect. Cycling has a dramatically lower impact.
Opportunity to learn a new skill
It can take a bit of practice to master the coordination and balance needed to ride a bike. But once you feel confident enough, it offers a great way to independently explore the world. It can even open up opportunities in your social and professional life.
Saves money
Swapping an average car for an average bike would save you £23,461 in the first year and £771 in subsequent years, according to Cycling UK. Even just switching to a bike for shorter journeys of less than eight kilometres (five miles) could save you around £48 annually in fuel costs.
Protects nature
The amount of roadkill is a major threat to the survival of species. One study found that colliding with a vehicle was the main cause of death for 28% of mammal populations analysed. Opting for slower transport with greater environmental awareness can prevent fatal collisions.
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