Commuters given Cycle to Work advice

Commuters wanting to do their bit for the environment by opting for pedal power are being urged to encourage their employers to sign up to the Cycle to Work.

The initiative allows employees to buy a tax-free bicycle if it is to be used for commuting.

The payments for the bicycle are taken directly from the employee’s salary and the total savingon the bicycle can be over 30 per cent.

Protect yourself from cycle theft

Try to stay one step ahead of bike thieves by taking the following simple steps:

• Insure your bike – according to research only 2 per cent of cyclists have adequate insurance. You may be covered on your household insurance policy, but read the small print. Spend a little time doing research before you buy cycle insurance as some providers offer much more for your money. Cycle insurance from the ETA includes new-for-old replacement, third party insurance (in the case of an accident you may need to seek compensation or even deal with a claim by someone else), personal accident cover and if you breakdown, they will even come out and recover you and your bike.

• Buy a good lock – Aim to spend 10 per cent of your bike’s value on a stout lock and make sure you use it properly; always secure the frame and do not leave the lock on the ground as it makes it easier for the thief to smash

Compare the cycle insurance market

A highly-competitive market has now prompted one cycle insurance provider to include third party and personal injury cover as standard.

A spokesperson for the ETA said: “Just as with any other type of insurance, it is vital that people shop around – many cyclists are paying over the odds for the extras that we include for free.”