More than two thirds of people in the UK would cycle to work if their employer provided more support, a study has found.
The research, using data from benefits provider BHN Extras, found that 67 percent of consumers would be more likely to start cycling with encouragement and support from their employer.
The data also revealed that 49 percent of UK consumers said they could not afford to buy a bike. A quarter of this group (25 percent) said it would take at least six months to save for one, with 50 percent saying they would be most likely to purchase a bike by splitting the cost.
More than a fifth (22 percent) of people who don’t own a bike said it affects their choice about cycling to work, even though there are pay to use bike services available. The same proportion (22 percent) highlighted the cost of bikes and accessories as prohibitive.
Rise in biking commuters
Researchers said that while the cost of bikes can act as a barrier, the number of people cycling to work is increasing.
Almost a third (32 percent) of consumers currently cycle to work. This represents a big increase from 19 percent in 2023.
BHN’s data suggests this percentage could rise again in 2025 as a third (34 percent) of consumers said they are considering making cycling part of their commute.
Cost is not the only barrier as people that don’t use a bike to get to work cited their own fitness level (46 percent) and accessibility (25 percent), in addition to a long commute, as the main hurdles.
However, 42 percent agreed that cycling could be included as part of their commute, suggesting there is still a big opportunity to get more people involved.
‘Don’t fit the bill’
Most worryingly, 58 percent of people that do cycle said that “they don’t fit the bill” for cycling to work because they believe they are not the typical demographic.
Data showed that people that do cycle to work are younger (43 percent are aged 18-24 years), male (40 percent) and live in Greater London (39 percent).
However, with 67 percent of study respondents saying employer support could encourage them to cycle, it seems that employers have a bigger part to play and could help highlight that cycling to work is for everyone.
Data also showed that more than three quarters (75 percent) of people who cycle said they have seen several additional benefits since they started cycling, while 47 percent believe that cycling will have the biggest impact on their mental health.
Cycle To Work Scheme anniversary
Adrian Warren, senior director, product management at 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.
“But there are also barriers that need to be addressed. Whether it’s the upfront cost of bikes, levels of fitness or feeling like you’re not the ‘typical’ demographic, cycling has significant benefits from better mental health and less impact on the environment.
“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.”
Jason Robinson, ex-England rugby captain and cycling enthusiast, said: “Physical health has always been a huge part of my life but it can be hard to fit it into a busy schedule. For many, cycling to work can be a convenient way to build exercise into their daily routines. Not fitting the typical demographic might be off putting for some but cycling is an activity for all, no matter where you live, your age or fitness ability – everyone can make the most of the many benefits associated with cycling.”
