Cycling for all: How to overcome challenges and inspire change

By Cycling UK
The image shows a diverse group of cyclists, including adults and children, riding along a quiet street lined with greenery. Many participants are wearing bright safety gear, such as fluorescent jackets and helmets. Some are riding traditional bikes, while others have cargo bikes or bicycles with child trailers, reflecting a family-friendly and inclusive cycling event. The atmosphere appears lively and community-oriented, with participants smiling and enjoying the ride.
Dr Kerry Griffiths, research and evaluation manager at Cycling UK, examines attitudes toward cycling and showcases how Cycling UK’s initiatives are changing perceptions, empowering communities and breaking down barriers

The average adult in England makes just 2% of their journeys by cycling [1]. This is despite 94% of adults having learnt to ride a bike [2], and evidence showing that attitudes towards cycling and active travel generally are very positive.

The Walking and Cycling Index collated data from residents across 18 UK cities and found that 43% would like to cycle more in the future, and 47% stated that they would like to see more government spending on cycling in their local area [3].

In addition, a YouGov survey showed that 57% of people supported the introduction of more cycle lanes [4]. The comparatively low number of people that cycle regularly suggests that there is a latent demand for cycling that is not being met. Addressing this requires a comprehensive understanding of the barriers people face.

Some obstacles are physical or environmental, such as limited access to bikes or safe cycling routes. For many, however, the barriers are psychological or attitudinal, including concerns about safety, lack of confidence or apprehensions about bad weather[5].

Here we present our evidence around attitudes towards cycling and explain how Cycling UK projects are helping to change these attitudes. At Cycling UK, our community projects reach more than 100,000 people a year, applying the ‘COM-B model’ of behavioural change.

Our projects give people the capabilities, opportunities and motivation they need to cycle for local journeys. They are designed to address fears, enhance skills and give people more choices in how they get around.

This image captures three women joyfully cycling on a scenic path surrounded by greenery. They are smiling and appear to be enjoying their ride together. The women are dressed warmly, with backpacks and scarves, suggesting a relaxed and friendly outing. The atmosphere highlights the social and inclusive nature of cycling, showcasing how it brings people together for shared enjoyment and fitness.

Barriers to cycling and behaviour change 

Safety concerns

Safety is a significant deterrent to cycling, with 48% of respondents in the 2023 National Travel Attitudes Survey citing it as the main barrier [6]. While infrastructure improvements are essential, behaviour-change interventions such as cycling skills workshops and confidence-building activities also play a critical role.

Finding somewhere safe to cycle stopped me from riding with confidence before. It helped having an instructor, and I certainly would return. I felt safe and comfortable

Big Bike Revival 2022-23 participant

Cycling UK’s programmes help participants discover safer routes, improve skills and ensure their bikes are road ready, creating a stronger sense of safety for riders.

Building confidence

Confidence is closely tied to perceived safety and is a major barrier to regular cycling. Only 20% of adults in England report feeling “very confident” about cycling [7]. Programmes such as the Big Bike Revival, which offer bike repairs, skills training and led rides, consistently help participants feel more self-assured on their bikes.

I feel so confident I can change a tyre, fix a puncture, and know what tools I need. Knowing I can manage repairs gives me so much confidence because I don’t have to worry about being stuck somewhere

Big Bike Revival 2022-23 participant

Supportive environments and community connections are especially appealing to women, who often express interest in cycling training to build confidence. Across our programmes, 45-70% of participants are female.

My childhood cycling lessons left me scared to ride a bike, but I’ve re-learned how to cycle and feel so confident. I now cycle every week, visit friends, and even do the school run

Big Bike Revival 2021-22 participant

Interventions that offer training and explicit skills support are especially likely to appeal to women: 17% of females said that cycling training to teach them how to cycle or increase their confidence would encourage them to cycle or cycle more, compared to just 10% of males [8].

This image depicts a group of people with bicycles on a paved path surrounded by trees and foliage. The group includes individuals of diverse ages and genders, with some standing and others seated on their bikes. The scene suggests a community bike ride or cycling event, set in an outdoor, park-like environment during autumn.

How to solve ‘the weather’

Bad weather is the second-most-common barrier to cycling, according to the National Travel Attitudes Survey. However, Cycling UK has found that practical support – such as bike repairs, confidence training and advice on appropriate clothing – can change people’s attitudes toward cycling in challenging conditions.

The Scotland Cycle Repair Scheme, which provided more than 80,000 discounted cycle repairs, showed that fixing bikes helped 50% of recipients feel safer and more willing to face bad weather.

My bike is now much safer, so I feel more confident cycling in bad weather. I can now make longer journeys and avoid the cost of public transport

Scotland Cycle Repair Scheme recipient

Additionally, our Making cycling e-asier project, which offers electric bike loans and skills sessions, has helped participants see cycling as a more accessible option in all seasons.

I planned a short ride but ended up cycling for an hour and a half! The e-bike made it easier and more enjoyable

Making cycling e-asier participant

This image shows a group of cyclists riding along a wet path in a park-like setting. The group includes men and women, some wearing brightly colored jackets, helmets, and high-visibility gear. The path is lined with green grass and tall trees, and a gazebo is visible in the background. Despite the rainy conditions, the cyclists appear to be enjoying their ride, showcasing a community cycling activity.

Conclusion

Attitudes and perceptions significantly influence how people choose to travel. Barriers like safety concerns, lack of confidence and apprehensions about weather can be effectively addressed through well-designed behaviour change programmes.

Cycling UK’s initiatives, including the Big Bike Revival and Community Cycle Clubs, help individuals overcome these barriers, empowering them to see cycling as a viable, enjoyable and sustainable option.

These interventions not only encourage healthier habits but also foster social connections and reduce reliance on cars, creating lasting benefits for individuals and communities.

I learned how to ride through the Big Bike Revival. It literally changed my life. I can now cycle with my daughter, teach my one-year-old, and ride as a family

Big Bike Revival 2021-22 participant

By continuing to address the gap between aspiration and action, Cycling UK’s projects are paving the way to create happier, healthier and greener lives for all. 

Start cycling Big Bike Revival Community Cycle Clubs Cycling UK in England Cycling UK in Scotland Making cycling e-asier Scotland Cycle Repair Scheme

Further reading