Lack of confidence
One-fifth of those who refuse to cycle cite a lack of confidence in their cycling ability as a chief reason. Within those respondents women were almost three times more likely to admit that confidence was keeping them off of a bike.
Take a fresh course There’s no doubt about it, there’s a lot more traffic on the road these days. For some this can be intimidating enough to keep them off their bikes. But there are many more cyclists than ever before too, partly because of changes to cycling infrastructure, which have helped insecure cyclists become regular riders.
“There are confidence-building cycling courses available to people of all ages,” explains Martyn Jones, cycling & walking programme co-ordinator, from Northern Ireland. “We not only help riders with their bike handling and riding on busy roads but also equip them with skills that will boost their confidence.”
Take the right path – planning routes that use the UK’s growing network of cycle paths, Greenways and trails help cyclists improve capability and familiarity with the bike and cycling in safer surroundings.
Learn the craft – bike maintenance courses can turn the most wary rider into a sure cyclist by learning about on-road repairs, safety checks, puncture fixes and so on.
Join the club – cycling clubs may give the impression of being a home to KOMpetitive weekend warriors, and there’s no denying plenty are, but many offer starter courses and ‘buddy’ systems to help novice riders find their way. Contact local clubs or British Cycling ( britishcycling.org.uk/club nder).
One-fifth of those who refuse to cycle cite a lack of con dence in their cycling ability