Surge in city cycling

BIKES are back with bang. That’s according to recent statistics that show a rise of almost ten per cent in the number of people cycling in Ireland since 2006, and a 35 per cent surge in the Cycle to Work scheme.

Ide Ward from Crumlin is one of Dublin’s born-again cyclists and the mother-of-one couldn’t be happier with her decision to switch to a two­-wheeled commute.
Ide has cycled to work regularly with her son since he was just nine-months-old and describes the experience as an

“absolute revelation

?.

She’s also noticed a significant increase in the number people out on their bikes since she started her cycling commute just over three years ago.
Ide says her decision to cycle to work means that she can spend more time with her son and enjoy a happier commute. Remarkably, she’s also been able to shave nearly 40 minutes off her journey in the morning.

“Before I took to the bike, I got the bus every day,

? she explains.

“It was tedious and would often take an hour to get into town in rush hour. On the bike I can be in in 20 minutes!

?
Cycling to work can often be quicker than driving or taking public transport because of the flexibility it offers. Being able to weave through traffic, take alternative routes and even split journeys between different modes of transport makes it a highly efficient way to get around the city.

What’s more, statistics show that the average amount of time spent commuting in Dublin has actually decreased from 27.5 minutes in 2006, to 26.6 minutes in 2012. A coincidence, or a symptom of an increased number of people cycling to work?

Let’s not forget health and fitness too; figures revealed recently say 66 per cent of Irish men and 50 per cent of women are overweight or obese.
Ide can certainly feel the benefits from cycling, and it has helped lead to other forms of exercise too.

“I am certainly much fitter since I started cycling,

? she explains.

“I have since taken up yoga and I did gymnastics last winter aged 39! There’s hope yet!

?

Leading Cycle to Work scheme provider, Cyclescheme, has seen an encouraging rise in cycling too, with a 35 per cent increase in the number of people opting to join the scheme in the past three years alone.

Spokesperson Tracy O’Brien believes it’s a very exciting time for cycling in Ireland right now.

“The Cycle to Work scheme allows people to easily purchase a bike and accessories, make a saving of up to 52 per cent and pay for it over a 12­ month period. We believe this has really helped get Ireland onto two­ wheels.

?
To find out more about Cyclescheme in Ireland visit www.cyclescheme.ie