New research by Cyclescheme shows the UK population embraced a cycling resurgence over lockdown but worry affordability barriers will prevent permanent behaviour change.

Cycling boomed during lockdown
To celebrate Cycle to Work Day 2021, we published research examining how UK cycling habits were influenced by the Coronavirus pandemic. 

Quieter roads, the need to stay local and a desire to avoid public transport – it’s unsurprising that the UK choose to spend more time in the saddle over the past 18 months. Our latest research shows that almost 65% of regular riders took their bikes out more during the pandemic. And over half of people who were considering taking up cycling pre-pandemic, did so during lockdown.

As the UK returns to normal, it’s clear that the UK public want to continue to cycle more. As well as riding for the physical and mental wellbeing benefits, one in two want to incorporate cycling into their daily routine and cycle commute moving forward.

Don’t let the bubble burst
Despite the renewed joy found in cycling, this boom is at risk of coming to an end now lockdown has eased. 

Alongside concerns about lack of time now life is returning to normal (25%) and worries about long-term motivation to ride (35%) – two fifths of would-be cyclists believe cycling isn’t accessible and affordable for them. This is where initiatives such as Cyclescheme can help.

Support the long-term shift towards cycling
The evidence shows that up to half of your workforce want to cycle commute. And Cyclescheme is perfectly placed to turn that ambition into a reality. 

Through our simple salary sacrifice scheme, employees save 23-39% on a new bike/accessories and spread the cost. There’s nothing to pay upfront, no interest-fees or credit checks. And as repayments are taken straight from salary – there’s never a worry about missing them.

But there is more to long-term cycling behaviour change than simply having the right gear. At Cyclescheme, our unique mix of added value extras support riders on every step of their cycling journey. This includes free access to Love to Ride, 14 days free bike insurance from Bikmo and registration with BikeRegister, the UK’s police-approved bike recovery scheme.

Sign your business up to Cyclescheme today and create new cyclists in your workplace.

Already signed up to Cyclescheme?
Re-engage your workforce with cycling and your Cyclescheme benefit. Here’s how: 

• Promote your scheme – there is a Cyclescheme package to suit every employee and a whole heap of free promotional assets on MySchemes to help you shout about it.
• Request an event – our in-house cycling experts can host a free digital event for your workforce. This lets employees know all about your Cyclescheme benefits and how they can apply. You can request your event via MySchemes today.
• Become a Cycle Friendly Employer – this framework helps you set up the right tools to continual support the cyclists in your workplace.