Brits switch to pedal power

Britons are leaving their cars at home and switching to pedal power during the credit crunch, Halfords claims.

According to the retailer, it sells more than one million bicycles each year, with an upturn in commuters cutting costs by going green noted as a reason for these figures.

The company also states schemes such as the government’s Cycle2Work initiative are proving to be popular, with 34,000 people using it in 2008/09, representing a 50 per cent rise.

The Cycle2Work scheme allows members of staff at participating firms to purchase a bike that will be used for commuting at a reduced rate, thanks to tax and national insurance breaks.

Do I need cycle insurance?

Bikes are vulnerable to theft and in the case of an accident you may need to seek compensation or even deal with a claim by someone else. Cycle insurance from the ETA is fully comprehensive.

At no extra cost, it includes new-for-old replacement, cover for accidental damage, third party insurance, personal accident cover and if you breakdown, we will even come out and recover you and your bike. More info

What is the ETA?

The ETA provides cyclists with green breakdown cover and green insurance products. As well as encouraging responsible driving to reduce carbon, the ETA campaigns for sustainable transport.