Cycle to Work Day returns tomorrow

Cyclescheme’s annual Cycle to Work Day takes place tomorrow, 8th August, in a bid to encourage more people to get on their bikes and cycle to work.

Last year, more than 25,000 people took part in the initiative. Cyclescheme is hoping to increase that number for this year through partnering with online platform Love to Ride to create a free online community where cyclists can set goals, record rides, earn badges and unlock exclusive competitions and discounts.

Research by Hawk Incentives, the leading provider of Cyclescheme in the UK, reveals only 6% of British workers currently cycle to work, although over a third of those asked said they would like to. Those involved in the study cited distance (42%), time (35%) and safety fears (34%) for not cycling, but with the figures revealing the average person spends £103.46 a month on travelling to work, cycling could be an effective cost-cutting solution.

The recent shake-up to the Cycle to Work Scheme, which saw the £1,000 cap lifted on bike purchases and subsequently e-Bikes to be included in the incentive scheme, means it is available to a greater pool of people than before.

Adrian Warren, Head of the Cycle to Work Alliance, said: “2019 has seen huge, positive changes for cycling, with the Government’s investment in bike racks at railway station and the updated Cycle to Work scheme guidance.

“Last year we had over 25,000 people pledge to take part in Cycle to Work Day and we’re hoping for more this Thursday. By joining forces with Love to Ride, we think we can achieve that. We all know from that the nation’s enthusiasm for cycling continues to grow and more and more companies are offering the cycle to work scheme as they recognise the benefits for their employees.

“So, if you haven’t tried it, or got out of a routine, give it a go!”