Every year, Cycle to Work Day gives us the chance to celebrate the life-changing potential of cycling for commuters across the UK.

Summer is here and cycling to work is the best way to enjoy time in the sun before and after work.

Today is a timely reminder of just how much difference the Cycle to Work Scheme can make.

Enabling Active Commutes for Millions

For 25 years, the Scheme has helped millions save on the cost of a new bike – and is now responsible for driving 1 in 4 adult bike purchases in the UK.

The impact doesn’t stop at purchase. Our research reveals a huge behavioural shift where around 80% of participants cycle every week after joining – up from just 40% before.

Getting your bike through the Scheme also covers all the must-have gear: helmets, lights, locks, and high-vis clothing. That means you’re not just saving money — you are gearing up for a safer, more confident ride from day one.

The Scheme is driving the E-bike Revolution

Electric bikes are transforming the way people travel — and the Scheme is driving this revolution.

One in ten scheme users joined to access an e-bike. Among all current participants, nearly 30% are thinking about going electric for their next bike, rising to 40% for those over 50. That’s a clear signal that e-bikes are unlocking commuting for a whole new group of riders.

Older workers and businesses alike have embraced the shift. Two-thirds of users over 50 say they’re more likely to re-join the scheme, and a similar number of employers report that the change has drawn in more interest from staff.

With e-bike sales tripling since 2018 and even faster growth forecast for 2025, it’s clear this trend looks set to continue!

Championing a Healthier Workplace Through the Scheme

Offering the Cycle to Work Scheme is one of the most effective ways employers can boost staff wellbeing, encourage active travel, and promote sustainability — all while offering a benefit that people truly value.

The Alliance is working closely with national Government in Westminster, as well as regional transport bodies and combined authorities to develop policies that support the next generation of cycle commuters.

Steve Edgell, Chair of the Cycle to Work Alliance, has commented:

“As we mark Cycle to Work Day, we’re calling on more employers to embrace the scheme and offer access to bikes and e-bikes as a simple but powerful workplace benefit. It’s not just good for people – it’s good for workplace productivity, and good for the planet.”

Cycle to Work Day is more than a calendar date, it is an opportunity to rethink how you travel. Whether you’re an employee looking for a healthier commute or an employer aiming to support your team, the Cycle to Work Scheme delivers real impact.

 

On 15th May 2025, the Cycle to Work Alliance hosted leaders from across the active travel, business, and cycling advocacy sectors to confront one of the most pressing challenges facing the UK’s active travel ambitions: how to ensure safe, inclusive, and accessible cycling for all.

The Alliance was joined by representatives from Cycling UK, Association of Cycle Traders; Bikeability; Cycle Solutions; Vivup; Cyclescheme; Labour Cycles; Association of Independent Professionals and Self-Employed (IPSE); London Councils; Conservative Environment Network; the Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals; and the University of Leeds.

While the policy framework for active travel continues to strengthen, participants agreed that without accelerated delivery on the ground and a unified voice across the sector, inclusive cycling will remain out of reach for too many.

Key themes of the debate included:

Making cycling safe

Safety remains the number one concern, particularly for women. Despite progress in infrastructure and investment, the cycling gender gap persists – with men still over 25% more likely to cycle than women, according to polling commissioned by the Alliance.

The roundtable called for inclusion to be embedded into the Department for Transport’s upcoming Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy, from cycle training and improved storage to a cultural shift that presents cycling as an everyday activity for all people – not just the confident few.

Empowering local delivery and employer engagement

Local authorities are at the sharp end of delivery – yet too often they are left without the funding or resources needed to bring active travel plans to life. Participants stressed that progress depends on empowering local councils to implement infrastructure, communications, and support that meet the needs of their communities.

Employers also have a key role to play from workplace cycle parking to supporting commuting routes and promoting the benefits of cycling. Businesses are well-positioned to help embed a culture of active travel.

Widening access – especially for the self-employed and low-paid workers

The Cycle to Work Scheme continues to be a vital tool – contributing to nearly a quarter of adult bike sales last year. But its potential is still far from fully realised. The current salary sacrifice model excludes many of those who would benefit most – particularly self-employed individuals and lower-income workers.

The roundtable discussed the importance of developing new access routes, such as retail finance and direct support options, that retain the scheme’s strengths while expanding its reach. With the gig economy on the rise, reforming access isn’t just a question of fairness – it’s an economic imperative.

Uniting behind a shared voice for change

Perhaps the clearest message from the roundtable was the need for greater alignment across the sector. Participants backed proposals for a shared charter on inclusive travel planning, a common evidence base, and coordinated communications to strengthen national influence.

A consistent, cross-sector voice can help ensure cycling is seen not as a fringe lifestyle, but as an essential, equitable, and low-carbon mode of transport – one that delivers health, economic, and environmental benefits at scale.

Delivery and change

The roundtable made clear that the building blocks are in place – but the time for delivery is now.

By working together, empowering local action, and ensuring no one is left behind, the sector can create streets that are safer, more accessible, and truly inclusive.

Last week’s Westminster Energy, Environment & Transport Forum policy conference brought together leading voices in active travel to discuss the future of cycling and walking in England. Among the speakers was Steve Edgell, Chair of the Cycle to Work Alliance, who shared key insights on infrastructure, accessibility, and important policy changes that could drive significant uptake in active travel. Here are his main take aways: 

Investing in Infrastructure 

The government’s £300 million commitment to active travel is promising, but real progress is dependent on high-quality, consistent infrastructure. Active travel infrastructure is so often treated as second-fiddle to the roads network – after recent storms it took a couple of hours to clear the way for cars; but weeks to clear the cycle paths.  

To encourage more cycling, especially among women and night-time commuters, the National Cycle Network must meet higher standards—ensuring well-lit, smooth, and well-maintained paths. Without this, potential cyclists will always be put off. 

Expanding the Cycle to Work Scheme 

The Cycle to Work Scheme has played a crucial role in increasing cycle commuting, contributing to nearly one in four adult bike sales last year. But there are easy things we can do to make the Scheme more accessible, such as to lower earners and self-employed workers. The Alliance is keen to work with policymakers to widen access to the Scheme so those who have the most to gain can reap the benefits.  

We are delighted that HMRC has recently authorized the use of shared bike schemes, such as TfL’s flagship Santander Cycles scheme, through Cycle to Work. This will make cycling even cheaper and more accessible. 

Shifting Public Perception 

I also highlighted the need for public and political discourse around active travel to shift. Resistance to low-traffic neighbourhoods (LTNs) and speed reductions remains a challenge. In Wales, lowering the speed limit to 20mph has been hugely successful and improving road safety, but this has been drowned out by negative media coverage. 

To change attitudes, we as active travel advocates must be consistently highlighting the benefits of active travel, including: 

  • Health – Reducing car reliance lowers healthcare costs. 
  • Economic Savings – Cycling commuters save an average of £1,262 per year. 
  • Sustainability – An 8km bike commute saves 750kg of CO2 annually. 

Making Active Travel a Practical Choice 

For walking and cycling to become mainstream, they must be as convenient and safe as other transport options. I was pleased to hear others on the panel advocating for improved integration with public transport and options to travel with bikes on trains. I also highlighted the potential for employers to use Employer National Insurance Contribution savings to invest in vital infrastructure like secure bike storage in workplaces, and helping employees with advice on local active travel commuting routes. 

The Road Ahead 

With the Integrated National Transport Strategy under consultation and a spending review approaching in June, now is the time for decisive action. The conference made it clear: cycling and walking must be treated as essential transport options, not afterthoughts. 

By improving infrastructure, expanding access, and changing perceptions, active travel can become a realistic and attractive choice for all. 

Our members