Back on a Bike

How long has it been since you rode a bike? For thousands of British adults, the answer is not since childhood. Cycling reduces congestion, pollution and obesity levels and yet less than 2 per cent of journeys are undertaken by bicycle.

Back on a Bike

Back on a Bike was a road show that offered adults of all ages the chance to try out a good quality bike in a supervised, but relaxed, off-road environment.

A YouGov poll, commissioned by the ETA , revealed that although the vast majority of Brits know how to cycle (93%), more than half have not ridden a bike in more than a year. Almost one in three had not ridden a bike in a decade or more.

The research underscores a disparity between men and women in cycling. Men are more likely to have learned to ride a bicycle, to own their own bicycle and to cycle more often.

Regional cycling differences were also pronounced. Northerners were less likely to have learned how to ride a bike, and if they did, to have access to a usable bike now, than those residing in the South.

We believe the key to promoting cycling is its presentation as an everyday activity. Commuting to work or popping to the shops by bike is not an extreme sport, so we see no need to push helmets, Lycra or high visibility clothing. We aim for people to view a bicycle as they do a washing machine; a device that, once acquired, is difficult to imagine living without.

The Back on a Bike project resulted in over 50 successful events.

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