Easy ways to encourage Cycling
Many current non-cyclists have positive memories of cycling from childhood and only need a little encouragement to get back in the saddle.
Raise awareness of the benefits of cycling
A twenty minute ride at moderate pace burns 100 calories, can help relieve symptoms of stress AND save money over other modes of transport.
Provide maps of cycling routes with journey times
People may be surprised to find out how far they can get by bike in twenty minutes. Mark on places of interest, more scenic and traffic-free routes, steep hills, bike repair shops and other useful information.
Your local council should be able to supply a map of local cycle routes while the SUSTRANS mapping service gives details of the National Cycle Network.
Use cycle couriers for light, local deliveries
Most cities and larger towns have cycle couriers. Using cycle couriers for local deliveries can be quicker than using van-based services and is far less polluting. Check your local Yellow Pages for details.
Directions to your office for visitors
Help to create an environment in which cycling is a realistic travel option. Make sure that directions to your office contain information for cyclists which, if possible, avoids heavily-trafficked roads.
Directions to events you are organising
If you are planning an event, ensure that you give directions for participants to get there without a car. This could involve walking and cycling directions from a train station showing times in minutes. Perhaps you could choose a venue that is conducive to traveling by public transport, walking or cycling, rather than one which is best suited to car drivers.
Mileage allowances
Consider paying a mileage allowance for work journeys made by bicycle.
