From buddy rides to bike breakfasts, Bike Week brings together a host of simple ideas to help make cycle commuting an accessible and attractive proposition for many people who might just need a gentle nudge in the right direction.

Cycling UK’s Bike Week Coordinator Jonathan Sharpe said: “As nearly half of the UK’s working population live within five miles of work, cycling can really easily become a part of your daily commute and Bike Week is the best opportunity to start.”

“Cycling often doesn’t feel like you are commuting – with the chance to ride through quieter streets, alongside canals, and on off-road routes, you get a greater sense of freedom and progress than you do stuck in a traffic jam or on a bus or train.” Jonathan Sharpe, Bike Week Coordinator

Dutch Ambassador Simon Smits said: “We are proud to share our national passion for cycling with the UK and for the Embassy to play host in launching Bike Week, as well as the start of the annual Parliamentary Bike Ride to Westminster (for the third time).

“We have always been huge supporters of cycling in the UK, and will continue to share our expertise with our British partners. From our long experience, we know that with long-term joint commitment, it is possible to radically transform our transport systems to include cycling as an essential part of the mix.

MPs’ public support for cycling

The launch of Bike Week at the Dutch Embassy acts as an annual platform for parliamentarians to publicly express their support for cycling by joining the annual parliamentary bike ride to College Green.

Ruth Cadbury MP, Co-Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Cycling Group, said: “On behalf of the APPCG, we are delighted to support this year’s biggest celebration of cycling to work. Many trips are often quicker and easier by bike, especially in our towns and cities, and the health benefits are free!”

APPCG Co-Chair, Alex Chalk MP said: “With over 5 million people cycling three or more times a week, it’s clear that cycling is becoming more and more mainstream. With the Government’s recent Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy published for consultation, we look forward to Government promoting greater investment in cycling to make cycling a safe and everyday reality for many more”.

Cycling Minister Robert Goodwill said: “Millions of people cycle every week, but I want even more people to make the switch in Bike Week. We want cycling to be a natural choice for short journeys as it can help improve health, cut congestion and improve air quality.”

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