Bicycle boom hits Britain

The demand for bicycles in Britain has tripled in the past year, leading to shortages of certain models of bike.

Bicycle sales are a seasonal affair, but given the slump in high street spending this year it is particularly impressive that annual sales soared in June by more than 20 per cent.

A poll this month by the Association of Cycle Traders showing that 83 per cent of bike shops were experiencing an increase in sales compared to last year appears to confirm the upward trend.

A spokesperson for the Environmental Transport Association (ETA) said: “All sorts of factors over the summer months conspire to boost the popularity of cycling – the trick is to turn these people into lifetime cyclists.”

Why are bicycle sales booming?

• The fine weather is undoubtedly a factor, but with people tightening their belts cycling provides a cheaper alternative to driving or public transport and the gym.
• The popularity of the government’s Cycle to Work scheme, which offers tax-free bikes to those who intend to commute by bicycle, has taken some retailers by surprise.

• The Tour de France is an annual catalyst for cycling

Protect yourself from cycle theft

Try to stay one step ahead of bike thieves by taking the following simple steps:

• Insure your bike – according to research only 2 per cent of cyclists have adequate insurance. You may be covered on your household insurance policy, but read the small print. Spend a little time doing research before you buy cycle insurance as some providers offer much more for your money. Cycle insurance from the ETA includes new-for-old replacement, third party insurance (in the case of an accident you may need to seek compensation or even deal with a claim by someone else), personal accident cover and if you breakdown, they will even come out and recover you and your bike.

• Buy a good lock – Aim to spend 10 per cent of your bike’s value on a stout lock and make sure you use it properly; always secure the frame and do not leave the lock on the ground as it makes it easier for the thief to smash

Bicycle insurance now rivals car cover

The latest insurance products for cyclists offer as many benefits as the fully-comprehensive policies offered to car drivers.

Motorists with a fully-comp level of cover are reimbursed for accidental damage to their vehicle and are supplied with a hire car while theirs is off the road, which are both features now commonly included in most cycle insurance policies.

Compare the cycle insurance market

A highly-competitive market has now prompted one cycle insurance provider to include third party and personal injury cover as standard.

A spokesperson for the ETA said: “Just as with any other type of insurance, it is vital that people shop around – many cyclists are paying over the odds for the extras that we include for free.”

What is the ETA?

The ETA provides cyclist insurance and motorists with green breakdown cover and insurance products and campaigns for sustainable transport.