London cycling boom 2025: Critical mass and cleaner air

Cycling in the City of London has soared by more than 50% over the past two years, according to newly released figures.

Official counts reveal a record 139,000 people cycled daily across 30 monitoring locations in October 2024 - a dramatic rise from 89,000 in 2022. The City of London Corporation, which governs the Square Mile, said this marks the steepest jump since it began recording cyclist numbers in 1999.

The figures are not just impressive, they are transformational. During peak commuting hours, people cycling now make up an extraordinary 56% of all traffic - a clear demonstration of the "strength in numbers" effect. In cycling, critical mass isn't just a theory: When enough people choose to ride, it creates a self-reinforcing cycle of safety, visibility, and encouragement for others to join. Each new rider makes it more normal - and safer - for the next.

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Will Norman, London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner, said he was excited by the surge. “Cycling is becoming the natural choice for more Londoners. We’re seeing what happens when you build a city for people, not just cars.”

The shift isn’t only happening on two wheels brought from home: Dockless hire bikes now account for one in six bikes on City streets, further lowering the barrier for newcomers to try cycling.

The transformation in travel habits has helped the Corporation achieve three key transport and environment targets - all six years ahead of schedule. Since 2017, cycling has risen by 70% (well past the 2030 target of a 50% increase), while motor traffic has fallen by 34% (beating the 25% reduction target) and freight traffic is down 21% (compared to the 15% goal).

For Shravan Joshi, chairman of the Planning and Transportation Committee, the benefits are tangible: “When we first published our strategy in 2019, 15 locations across the City exceeded our air quality objective for nitrogen dioxide. Last year, that figure fell to just two."

The improvements echo wider evidence that making streets friendlier to people walking and cycling is not only healthier, but vital for cleaner air and more liveable urban environments.

Get Cycle Rescue for free with ETA bicycle insurance

If you suffer a breakdown (including punctures, or even a flat e-bike battery) while out cycling, our 24-hour Cycle Rescue team is on hand to arrange transport for you and your bicycle to a safe location. The service is included for free with ETA cycle insurance, along with:

• Theft, accidental damage & vandalism
• E-bike battery theft cover
• Cycle Rescue
• No devaluation of your bike over time
• £2m third party PLUS £20,000 personal accident cover
• Shed and garage storage
• Low standard excess of 5% (£50 minimum)
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The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

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