On this Cycle to Work Day 2024, a new study has found that 49% of UK consumers are not currently in a position to buy a bike outright.
The research, conducted by BHN Extras, also found quarter (25%) of those consumers stated that it would take at least six months to save for one, with 50% saying they would be most likely to purchase a bike by splitting the cost.
Not having a bike impacts the choice to cycle to work for 22% of the UK, with 22% also stating the cost of bikes and accessories as a deterrent. While the cost of bikes can act as a barrier, cycling to work is on the up. 32% of consumers currently cycle to work – a 13% increase compared to 2023 (19%). Research suggests this could be even greater in 2025 with a third (34%) of consumers currently considering introducing cycling to their commute.
Knocking down the barriers
For those who don’t currently cycle, besides a long commute, fitness (46%) and accessibility (25%) are the top barriers. But with nearly half of people (42%) believing that cycling could cover part of their commute, there remains a huge opportunity to get the nation cycling. And encouragement could come from unlikely sources – 67% of consumers say they’d be more likely to start cycling if their employer provided support.
However, with the typical demographic of a cyclist tending to be those who are younger (43% 18-24 yo), male (40%) and living in Greater London (39%), the majority of cyclists (58%) feel like they don’t fit the bill. But that shouldn’t become another barrier for cyclists to enjoy the benefits of cycling.
BHN’s research found that three-quarters (75%) of those who cycle agree that they discovered several more benefits since cycling than not and 47% of people believe that cycling will have the biggest impact on their mental health.
Adrian Warren, Senior Director, Product Management, BHN Extras said:
It is clear that people want to cycle to work and with it being the 25th anniversary of The Cycle To Work Scheme and an Olympic year – the timing could not be better. It’s interesting that so many people said they would be more likely to cycle if they had support from their employers. There is cost effective support out there that can help overcome many of the barriers. Cycle to Work Schemes for example, are offered through employment and help to spread the cost of bikes and accessories through salary sacrifices.
Adrian Warren, Senior Director, Product Management, BHN Extras
To effectively encourage employees to cycle to work, organisations can take other steps as well, such as providing secure bicycle parking facilities, offering incentives or subsidies for bicycle purchases, organising cycling events, and promoting a cycling-friendly workplace culture.
Cycling is a great form of exercise that can improve the physical and mental well-being of employees. Regular physical activity can lead to healthier and more productive employees, reducing sick days and increasing overall job satisfaction.
Employers – consider encouraging your employees to adopt a healthier commute today!
Joanne is the editor for Workplace Wellbeing Professional and has a keen interest in promoting the safety and wellbeing of the global workforce. After earning a bachelor's degree in English literature and media studies, she taught English in China and Vietnam for two years. Before joining Work Well Pro, Joanne worked as a marketing coordinator for luxury property, where her responsibilities included blog writing, photography, and video creation.
