Drawing by Ann Warren, reproduced with permission.
Healthy Rides Update, Sept 2022
Information on Southwark Cyclists Healthy Rides is now entirely on https://southwarkcyclists.org.uk/healthy-rides/. We are running two Saturday morning rides most weeks. Occasonally doing "Awayday" all day excursions. Still registering on Eventbrite where you can find rides at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/southwark-cyclists-29281383873.
Information on Southwark Cyclists Healthy Rides is now entirely on https://southwarkcyclists.org.uk/healthy-rides/. We are running two Saturday morning rides most weeks. Occasonally doing "Awayday" all day excursions. Still registering on Eventbrite where you can find rides at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/southwark-cyclists-29281383873.
Contact Form
To contact me or to comment on the web site or on the Cycling Statistics web site (https://sites.google.com/view/cycling-statistics/) please use the form here.
To contact me or to comment on the web site or on the Cycling Statistics web site (https://sites.google.com/view/cycling-statistics/) please use the form here.
Update on Healthy Rides
Still running under Covid restrictions. Two 15 person rides each Saturday. Details at https://southwarkcyclists.org.uk/healthy-rides/ and associated info on Facebook. Latest (June 26th) ride report, including the Green Park elephants, at https///southwarkcyclists.org.uk/healthy-rides/healthy-ride-reports-2021/healthy-rides-26th-june-2021/
Still running under Covid restrictions. Two 15 person rides each Saturday. Details at https://southwarkcyclists.org.uk/healthy-rides/ and associated info on Facebook. Latest (June 26th) ride report, including the Green Park elephants, at https///southwarkcyclists.org.uk/healthy-rides/healthy-ride-reports-2021/healthy-rides-26th-june-2021/
Year on Year data on Cycling Numbers
Good Friday 2020, shortly after the start of Lockdown 1, was when I started counting cyclists on the A200 from my flat. Counted again on Good Friday this year. 49% increase year on year. Weather was better last year (23 degrees compared with 11) and Good Friday was 9 days earlier this year. Allowing for these differences indicates a 100% yearly increase. And this is on top of the increase that had already occured by April 10th last year, in the first weeks of lockdown. Fits nicely with the data for 11 months of weekend counting described below. Leisure cycing is way up since the start of the pandemic.
Good Friday 2020, shortly after the start of Lockdown 1, was when I started counting cyclists on the A200 from my flat. Counted again on Good Friday this year. 49% increase year on year. Weather was better last year (23 degrees compared with 11) and Good Friday was 9 days earlier this year. Allowing for these differences indicates a 100% yearly increase. And this is on top of the increase that had already occured by April 10th last year, in the first weeks of lockdown. Fits nicely with the data for 11 months of weekend counting described below. Leisure cycing is way up since the start of the pandemic.
Seasonal Distribution of Cycling
Been looking in more detail at seasonal pattern of cycing based mostly on the National Travel Survey. More variation at weekends, consistent pattern from other sources, e.g. London Bike Hire. More information in my Blog. Real detail at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MX_6p-5mkxLX8o3JW66emtz5JgcrlzDt/view?usp=sharing
Been looking in more detail at seasonal pattern of cycing based mostly on the National Travel Survey. More variation at weekends, consistent pattern from other sources, e.g. London Bike Hire. More information in my Blog. Real detail at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MX_6p-5mkxLX8o3JW66emtz5JgcrlzDt/view?usp=sharing
Big increase in weekend cycling
Been counting cyclists on the A200 Jamaica Rd from my balcony for the last 11 months of pandemic. The effect of successive lockdowns has been to trigger a large increase in cycling at weekends. For example as shown in the chart there was an increase of 200% during and immediately after Lockdown 1 in May and June. Levels have dropped a bit since, but are still double pre-covid levels. If we adjust for the usual rise of cycling in the summer and fall in the winter we get the yellow bars in the chart. These show an estimated 120% rise in the summer. And now, in January and February, when cycling would usually be low, we are seeing seasonally adjusted cycle flows 170% above pre- Covid levels.
Interpretation of the maintained increase is tricky as Cycleway 4 along Jamaica Rd opened in September. Some of the long-term increase in cycling may be due to the popularity of CW4. But some of the increase will, I think, indicate a widespread upswing in leisure cycling, something that is visible on many other roads
Been counting cyclists on the A200 Jamaica Rd from my balcony for the last 11 months of pandemic. The effect of successive lockdowns has been to trigger a large increase in cycling at weekends. For example as shown in the chart there was an increase of 200% during and immediately after Lockdown 1 in May and June. Levels have dropped a bit since, but are still double pre-covid levels. If we adjust for the usual rise of cycling in the summer and fall in the winter we get the yellow bars in the chart. These show an estimated 120% rise in the summer. And now, in January and February, when cycling would usually be low, we are seeing seasonally adjusted cycle flows 170% above pre- Covid levels.
Interpretation of the maintained increase is tricky as Cycleway 4 along Jamaica Rd opened in September. Some of the long-term increase in cycling may be due to the popularity of CW4. But some of the increase will, I think, indicate a widespread upswing in leisure cycling, something that is visible on many other roads
Seasonal Variation in Cycling
How much does cycling vary between summer and winter? Have been looking for the best data so that can adjust my regular counts during lockdown for seasonal variation. Briefly – and not surprisingly – the stats show that cycling is 30% above average in July and 40% below in December. Leisure cycling varies twice as much as commuter cycling. Seasonal pattern (but not overall level) is similar in London to the rest of the country. Full report at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TblGxKpQ_uSEvCRTNy0_eI40N7brM0FU/view?usp=sharing
How much does cycling vary between summer and winter? Have been looking for the best data so that can adjust my regular counts during lockdown for seasonal variation. Briefly – and not surprisingly – the stats show that cycling is 30% above average in July and 40% below in December. Leisure cycling varies twice as much as commuter cycling. Seasonal pattern (but not overall level) is similar in London to the rest of the country. Full report at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TblGxKpQ_uSEvCRTNy0_eI40N7brM0FU/view?usp=sharing
Do-it-Yourself Rides
We have 9 tested routes available with maps and turn-by-turn guides. A map with all 9 routes is here: https://bit.ly/3fEf2rg. More details are on the Do-it-Yourself page.
We have 9 tested routes available with maps and turn-by-turn guides. A map with all 9 routes is here: https://bit.ly/3fEf2rg. More details are on the Do-it-Yourself page.
25% of cyclists choose NOT to use Cycleway when against flow
- On Cycleway 4 at Dockhead 75% of westbound cyclists use the bidirectional cycle track. 25% choose to use the heavily trafficked road. In the other direction, cycling with the flow, 97% use the Cycleway.
- This is true at weekends and at peak weekday commuting times
- Is this a general phenomenon? Do a significant group of cyclists choose to be on the correct side of the road even when a well-designed bidirectional cycle track is available? This needs to be considered when planning future cycleways.
- More details at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RONkTFVNwjOZgjpeTdxw_W06R08d9h9_/view?usp=sharing
Cycling 70% down on Cycleway 1
Key points
Key points
- Comparison at Willow Walk with 6 years of previous data.
- Midweek peak hour cycling down 70%
- Contrasts with motor traffic only down 30%
- Weekend cycling as high as weekday with 41% female riders.
Effect of Lockdown on cycling levels in Inner London
See new blog based on counts of traffic along A200 Jamaica Rd. Some good news (weekend cycling up 200%). Some less good (midweek cycle commuting probably down 70%). Details here.
See new blog based on counts of traffic along A200 Jamaica Rd. Some good news (weekend cycling up 200%). Some less good (midweek cycle commuting probably down 70%). Details here.
Ride Reports for 2020 here.
Cyclists serious injuries are rising.
Even though fatalities are falling. This disconnect between injuries and fatalities is not found in other modes, e.g. no rise in pedestrian injuries. This trend only started about 2005. What is causing these "excess" serious injuries to cyclists? See blog for detail and to comment.
Even though fatalities are falling. This disconnect between injuries and fatalities is not found in other modes, e.g. no rise in pedestrian injuries. This trend only started about 2005. What is causing these "excess" serious injuries to cyclists? See blog for detail and to comment.
2-stage right turns
We do these occasionally. Some riders wonder what I am doing! Have put together some notes on right turns in general, including 2-stage ones. You can find the notes at http://bit.ly/39ssnPJ
or can download a Word version below.
We do these occasionally. Some riders wonder what I am doing! Have put together some notes on right turns in general, including 2-stage ones. You can find the notes at http://bit.ly/39ssnPJ
or can download a Word version below.
| right_turn.docx |
Record low cyclist fatalities in London in 2019
Five cyclists died in collisions on London’s roads in 2019. This is much lower than the 2018 figure of 12. It is half the average for the previous 5 years. Checking records back to 2002 shows this is the lowest figure over that period; it is probably the lowest figure ever.
Cause for celebration or just to be cautiously welcomed?
Analysis in blog. Also see here
Key messages:
Five cyclists died in collisions on London’s roads in 2019. This is much lower than the 2018 figure of 12. It is half the average for the previous 5 years. Checking records back to 2002 shows this is the lowest figure over that period; it is probably the lowest figure ever.
Cause for celebration or just to be cautiously welcomed?
Analysis in blog. Also see here
Key messages:
- The risk of being killed while cycling is very low
- This risk is falling steadily, year on year.
First section of Cycleway 4 opened
The short eastmost section from Queen Elizabeth St to Tower Bridge Road is open. All 80 metres of it. But very nicely surfaced. Only becomes seriously useful when Jamaica Rd is completed. In another Tweet Will Norman says work on this is ahead of schedule. Plan is to open before the Marathon on 26th April 2020. See Tweet at
https://twitter.com/willnorman/status/1204724500073472000
The short eastmost section from Queen Elizabeth St to Tower Bridge Road is open. All 80 metres of it. But very nicely surfaced. Only becomes seriously useful when Jamaica Rd is completed. In another Tweet Will Norman says work on this is ahead of schedule. Plan is to open before the Marathon on 26th April 2020. See Tweet at
https://twitter.com/willnorman/status/1204724500073472000
Receiving award from Terry Patterson, Chair LCC Trustees
Received "Best Rides and Ride Leader" award for 2019 at the LCC Campaigner Awards on Oct 16th. Really pleased. Could not have successful rides without riders. So thanks to everyone who has taken part this year.
Latest London Cycling Stats
TfL's performance measure for Central London cycling shows distance cycled increasing at about 3.4% per year for the last 2-3 years. Good news, but nowhere near enough of an increase to meet the Mayor's target of more than doubling by 2025. See Cycling Stats for more analysis.
TfL's performance measure for Central London cycling shows distance cycled increasing at about 3.4% per year for the last 2-3 years. Good news, but nowhere near enough of an increase to meet the Mayor's target of more than doubling by 2025. See Cycling Stats for more analysis.
Numbers joining and leaving Cycleway 1
Have put together my data on cycle flows at main junctions on Quietway 1 (about to be re-badged as Cycleway 1) in Bermondsey. Main conclusions are fairly obvious, but bear repeating.
Have put together my data on cycle flows at main junctions on Quietway 1 (about to be re-badged as Cycleway 1) in Bermondsey. Main conclusions are fairly obvious, but bear repeating.
- 16-36% of cyclists join or leave at main junctions.
- When designing routes essential to take this in mind.
- Make sure it is easy to leave or join.
- Make sure signage at distance from main route is good.
- When planning infrastructure think network, not just A to B.
Quietway 1 cyclist numbers still increasing
Now over 1000/hour at am peak on Willow Walk, Bermondsey. Increasing linearly at rate of 200 extra cyclists each year, See report at https://southwarkcyclists.org.uk/quietway-1-cyclist-numbers-still-increasing/ and discussion at https://groups.google.com/forum/#!topic/southwarkcyclists/qLvi62Dpi0Y
Now over 1000/hour at am peak on Willow Walk, Bermondsey. Increasing linearly at rate of 200 extra cyclists each year, See report at https://southwarkcyclists.org.uk/quietway-1-cyclist-numbers-still-increasing/ and discussion at https://groups.google.com/forum/#!topic/southwarkcyclists/qLvi62Dpi0Y
Can exercise reverse the ageing process?
"Recent studies of recreational cyclists aged 55-79 suggest they have the capacity to do everyday tasks very easily and efficiently because nearly all parts of their body are in remarkably good condition." Quote from short article by Steve Harridge and Norman Lazarus (Kings College London) on the BBC web site. Follows previous work noted in an earlier post (see "Cycling keeps you fit and healthy - new data." below)
"Recent studies of recreational cyclists aged 55-79 suggest they have the capacity to do everyday tasks very easily and efficiently because nearly all parts of their body are in remarkably good condition." Quote from short article by Steve Harridge and Norman Lazarus (Kings College London) on the BBC web site. Follows previous work noted in an earlier post (see "Cycling keeps you fit and healthy - new data." below)
New fun route - Theatres in Southwark and Lambeth
Great new route devised by Jane Champion. Will be Healthy Ride March 23rd 2019. But if you miss this ride, try it anyway. 21 theatres in 2 hours (12 miles), or easily shortened suit time. More details on the routes page.
Great new route devised by Jane Champion. Will be Healthy Ride March 23rd 2019. But if you miss this ride, try it anyway. 21 theatres in 2 hours (12 miles), or easily shortened suit time. More details on the routes page.
Videos on Cycle Commuting
British Cycling have produced a series of short videos on how to do a cycle commute. Everything from route planning to negoriating roundabouts. I do not agree with everything on these videos, of course! But there is a lot of useful info presented in a clear way. You can find the list of topics here:
https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/knowledge/skills/commuting-leisure?&page=1
British Cycling have produced a series of short videos on how to do a cycle commute. Everything from route planning to negoriating roundabouts. I do not agree with everything on these videos, of course! But there is a lot of useful info presented in a clear way. You can find the list of topics here:
https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/knowledge/skills/commuting-leisure?&page=1
A little more cycling, but same number of cyclists
Latest road traffic numbers for cycling in the UK
There is a clear analysis in the latest Road Traffic Estimates:
Great Britain 2017. Have extracted page 1 and the cycling bits and attach them below. Well worth a read. A valuable professional view that contrasts with the very optimistic statements of British Cycling, Cycling UK and others.
Total mileage is going up linearly, but at just 30% in 20 years, so about 1.5% each year. But numbers of cyclists are not going up. It is just the same number cycling a bit more each year.
We need to face up to the failure of the many initiatives to promote cycling and maybe think a bit outside the box. Bit more information and a chance to comment in the linked blog.
Latest road traffic numbers for cycling in the UK
There is a clear analysis in the latest Road Traffic Estimates:
Great Britain 2017. Have extracted page 1 and the cycling bits and attach them below. Well worth a read. A valuable professional view that contrasts with the very optimistic statements of British Cycling, Cycling UK and others.
Total mileage is going up linearly, but at just 30% in 20 years, so about 1.5% each year. But numbers of cyclists are not going up. It is just the same number cycling a bit more each year.
We need to face up to the failure of the many initiatives to promote cycling and maybe think a bit outside the box. Bit more information and a chance to comment in the linked blog.
| road-traffic-estimates-in-great-britain-2017_cycling.pdf |
Healthy Rides 2018 – Annual review
By Bruce Lynn, Healthy Rides Co-Ordinator, Southwark Cyclists
During 2018 we ran 51 rides with an average of 17 riders. Very similar to last year (see graph). The small overall fall was mostly due to the unusually cold start to the year. Numbers in January-March were down 31%, numbers from April to December were unchanged from 2017.
See longer report and full stats below.
By Bruce Lynn, Healthy Rides Co-Ordinator, Southwark Cyclists
During 2018 we ran 51 rides with an average of 17 riders. Very similar to last year (see graph). The small overall fall was mostly due to the unusually cold start to the year. Numbers in January-March were down 31%, numbers from April to December were unchanged from 2017.
See longer report and full stats below.
|
| ||||
42% more female cyclists on quiet routes
Counts at peak time show that female cyclists comprise just 23% of the total. On quiet routes with little traffic the proportion is 42% higher than on routes with a lot of traffic.
See Bruce's Blog for more information.
Counts at peak time show that female cyclists comprise just 23% of the total. On quiet routes with little traffic the proportion is 42% higher than on routes with a lot of traffic.
See Bruce's Blog for more information.
National Publicity for Healthy Rides
Short piece about Healthy Rides in British Cycling's Ride Social Creator Newsletter. "For this month's Featured Ride we are off to the big smoke for one of Southwark Cyclists' Healthy Rides." Read more in copy of Newsletter linked to right. |
| ||
We did it!
First ever Healthy Rides Picnic
First meet up with Bexley Healthy Riders
Report of Picnic ride to Thames Barrier in brief HERE and longer report on Southwark Cyclists Web Site HERE. Check out the video on YouTube.
First ever Healthy Rides Picnic
First meet up with Bexley Healthy Riders
Report of Picnic ride to Thames Barrier in brief HERE and longer report on Southwark Cyclists Web Site HERE. Check out the video on YouTube.
Bexley Cyclists are doing Healthy Rides
Attracting often 20+ every Saturday morning.
Photos here. Rides start/finish at Danson Park Stables (car park) DA6 8HL. More info on Bexley Cyclists Facebook page.
Attracting often 20+ every Saturday morning.
Photos here. Rides start/finish at Danson Park Stables (car park) DA6 8HL. More info on Bexley Cyclists Facebook page.
Cycling keeps you fit and healthy - new data. Fine study from Steve Harridge (KCL) and collaborators showing excellent health in masters cyclists. Muscles and immune system much less "aged" than in age-matched sedentary individuals. Good coverage on BBC news and web site, and summary here
|
Southwark Cyclists Dr Bike sessions have restarted.
Plan is to run one on 1st Thursday each month at Peckham Square (Peckham Arch, next to Peckham Pulse Leisure Centre, SE15 5JR), one on 3rd Thursday on Q1 at junction of Dunton Rd and Linton Rd (opposite CROL cafe, SE1 5TW). 5.30 to 7.30pm. First sessions April 5th and 19th |
|
ILLUMINATED RIVER
Nice presentation to Southwark Cyclists meeting 14/2/18. Beautiful kinetic lighting on the central London bridges. Low energy. 99% funded by donors. No wonder the Mayor is backing it. See http://illuminatedriver.london/ for more info.
Nice presentation to Southwark Cyclists meeting 14/2/18. Beautiful kinetic lighting on the central London bridges. Low energy. 99% funded by donors. No wonder the Mayor is backing it. See http://illuminatedriver.london/ for more info.
Mend and Ride Bike Workshops.
Lewisham Cyclists are currently reminding people about these popular sessions, see Facebook or the bike repair link on this site.
Lewisham Cyclists are currently reminding people about these popular sessions, see Facebook or the bike repair link on this site.
Cycling to work is as good for you as 5 gym sessions a week. New data from a Danish study shows 7% fall in fat mass and 34% fall in heart disease risk factor CRP after 6 months cycling to work. Effect of 5 vigorous gym sessions per week was similar. Cycle commuting again shown to be the cheapest and most time efficient way to improve your health. Read more in my blog.
£12 bike loan scheme run by Southwark Council. If you want to loan a bike for a month, plus some training, try this. The link to more information is: www.southwarktryandride.com/about
There is absolutely no publicity for this scheme, but it does exist. If you manage to loan a bike, or if you have problems getting signed on, lease let me know by going to my Bruce's blog link on left and sending a message from the blog post there. Also if you have already used the scheme, please let me know.
There is absolutely no publicity for this scheme, but it does exist. If you manage to loan a bike, or if you have problems getting signed on, lease let me know by going to my Bruce's blog link on left and sending a message from the blog post there. Also if you have already used the scheme, please let me know.
Official statistics show less active travel by white British people than other ethnic groups. Can this be correct?
This is an important question as wrong information may lead to wasting resources targetting the wrong groups. Analysis of all the survey information available indicates that if anything white British probably do more active travel than other ethnic groups, not less. Have a look at my blog on this for the details.
This is an important question as wrong information may lead to wasting resources targetting the wrong groups. Analysis of all the survey information available indicates that if anything white British probably do more active travel than other ethnic groups, not less. Have a look at my blog on this for the details.
Seven Murals and a Windmill. Check out this great route around Brixton devised by Harry Clark. Ride it on June 24th. Or if you cannot make that date, ride it yourself using Harry's great guide notes and the route maps. All the information is in the routes page.
More data on health benefits of cycling to work
Risk of early death down by 41%. Risk of developing cardiovascular disease or cancer down by 45%. Amazing stats from an analysis of the Biobank data from 250,000 45-60 year-olds. Comparison was between those travelling to work by car or public transport and those (2.6% of the total) who cycled to work. So, catch the Bike Train, everyone! More information in my blog or excellent report on the BBC web site, http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-39641122.
Risk of early death down by 41%. Risk of developing cardiovascular disease or cancer down by 45%. Amazing stats from an analysis of the Biobank data from 250,000 45-60 year-olds. Comparison was between those travelling to work by car or public transport and those (2.6% of the total) who cycled to work. So, catch the Bike Train, everyone! More information in my blog or excellent report on the BBC web site, http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-39641122.
Elephant and Castle Audit.
Have the changes to the northern junctions improved the E+C for cyclists? After 2 days of observing and counting, we concluded:
Cyclists overall think the new peninsula layout is an improvement. The A3 route, the one with the highest cycle flows, is clearly safer now, although slightly slower. The route to St Georges Circus via London Road remains popular with cyclists, but is compromised by a poorly-designed junction with the peninsula. The more southeast-northwest route between New Kent Rd and St Georges Rd has not become widely used. Facilities for cyclists on this route are slow and indirect, or involve dangerous crossing of motor traffic.
Tell us what you think using this form. Full draft report can be downloaded below.
Have the changes to the northern junctions improved the E+C for cyclists? After 2 days of observing and counting, we concluded:
Cyclists overall think the new peninsula layout is an improvement. The A3 route, the one with the highest cycle flows, is clearly safer now, although slightly slower. The route to St Georges Circus via London Road remains popular with cyclists, but is compromised by a poorly-designed junction with the peninsula. The more southeast-northwest route between New Kent Rd and St Georges Rd has not become widely used. Facilities for cyclists on this route are slow and indirect, or involve dangerous crossing of motor traffic.
Tell us what you think using this form. Full draft report can be downloaded below.
| audit_e_c_draft01.doc |
Quote of the week!
“When asked to prove that bike lanes are "needed," remember that it's hard to justify a bridge by the number of people swimming across a river.” Brent Toderian on Twitter, https://twitter.com/BrentToderian
“When asked to prove that bike lanes are "needed," remember that it's hard to justify a bridge by the number of people swimming across a river.” Brent Toderian on Twitter, https://twitter.com/BrentToderian
The Cafés of Quietway 1. If you are an LCC member, check out my article on some of the cafes (and a cake shop) on the Q1 route, published in the Spring 2017 issue of London Cyclist.
Commuting by active travel is good for health and wellbeing
Two recent UK studies provide strong evidence that switching to cycling or walking to work reduces body fat and increases wellbeing. See blog for details.
Two recent UK studies provide strong evidence that switching to cycling or walking to work reduces body fat and increases wellbeing. See blog for details.
Well this is really nice! Recent e-mail from Mariam.
"Thank you for a wonderful year of healthy and healthy plus rides. It's been an absolute pleasure to get to know the group and have a ride to look forward to and enjoy on Saturday mornings. I've gained a great deal of confidence not just with my cycling skills but also getting myself out and about around London, so thank you! "
"Thank you for a wonderful year of healthy and healthy plus rides. It's been an absolute pleasure to get to know the group and have a ride to look forward to and enjoy on Saturday mornings. I've gained a great deal of confidence not just with my cycling skills but also getting myself out and about around London, so thank you! "
No room for bikes
Interesting article by Guardian journalist Peter Walker. Taking example of Champion Hill (Camberwell), discusses how hard it is to get residential streets calmed to encourage cycling. Read it here.
Interesting article by Guardian journalist Peter Walker. Taking example of Champion Hill (Camberwell), discusses how hard it is to get residential streets calmed to encourage cycling. Read it here.
Butterfly-themed Ride Highly Commended! At the London Cycling Campaign awards do on Saturday 22nd the Healthy Ride on July 23rd where we went searching for butterflies was Highly Commended in the "Family-Friendly Local Group Ride or Event" category. And Southwark Cyclists Bike Train (see below) won the award for best "Local Group Ride or Event". Good stuff!
Cycle Training
Did you know that in London there is free training for all levels of ability? Including "advanced" for heavy traffic conditions and difficult junctions. Also subsidised bike maintenance courses. See my Blog for details, and for the opportunity to comment on your experience with these facilities.
Did you know that in London there is free training for all levels of ability? Including "advanced" for heavy traffic conditions and difficult junctions. Also subsidised bike maintenance courses. See my Blog for details, and for the opportunity to comment on your experience with these facilities.
Doubling of cycling on Q1 route
Recent counts (Aug 3) during the morning peak found over 700 cyclists per hour on Willow Walk in Bermondsey. In July 2014 there were only 340/hr. So Quietway 1 improvements appear to have led to a 120% increase in cycling on this route. See post on SC web site for more.
Recent counts (Aug 3) during the morning peak found over 700 cyclists per hour on Willow Walk in Bermondsey. In July 2014 there were only 340/hr. So Quietway 1 improvements appear to have led to a 120% increase in cycling on this route. See post on SC web site for more.
Cycling to Work can keep you healthy
New analysis of mortality data shows getting an hour of exercise a day can protect you from the ill effects of a sedentary working environment. According to Prof Ulf Ekelund in a BBC interview:"...we cannot stress enough the importance of getting exercise, whether it's getting out for a walk at lunchtime, going for a run in the morning or cycling to work" (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-36895789). So get on the Bike Train at once!! Full study in Lancet, July 27, 2016
New analysis of mortality data shows getting an hour of exercise a day can protect you from the ill effects of a sedentary working environment. According to Prof Ulf Ekelund in a BBC interview:"...we cannot stress enough the importance of getting exercise, whether it's getting out for a walk at lunchtime, going for a run in the morning or cycling to work" (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-36895789). So get on the Bike Train at once!! Full study in Lancet, July 27, 2016
Bike Train
New initiative from Southwark Cyclists to help commuters to start cycling to work. At present every Wednesday a guided ride from Nunhead and Peckham Rye stations to Blackfriars. Route here: http://ow.ly/101Cql . More information on the Southwark Cyclists web site, http://southwarkcyclists.org.uk/events/cycle-to-work-wednesdays/ Also see write-up in Southwark News, http://www.southwarknews.co.uk/news/fed-thameslink-southern-train-jump-aboard-new-bike-train/
New initiative from Southwark Cyclists to help commuters to start cycling to work. At present every Wednesday a guided ride from Nunhead and Peckham Rye stations to Blackfriars. Route here: http://ow.ly/101Cql . More information on the Southwark Cyclists web site, http://southwarkcyclists.org.uk/events/cycle-to-work-wednesdays/ Also see write-up in Southwark News, http://www.southwarknews.co.uk/news/fed-thameslink-southern-train-jump-aboard-new-bike-train/
Review of latest work on cycling and health
"Based on a large body of evidence, planners, health professionals, and decision-makers can rest assured that benefits from cycling-related physical activity are worth pursuing." The conclusion of an authoritative review of health benefits, and risks, of cycling. Full text at www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/01441647.2015.1057877#.VbprsWbbKiM
"Based on a large body of evidence, planners, health professionals, and decision-makers can rest assured that benefits from cycling-related physical activity are worth pursuing." The conclusion of an authoritative review of health benefits, and risks, of cycling. Full text at www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/01441647.2015.1057877#.VbprsWbbKiM
A Junction Safe for Cycling
A new, safe, junction design has been implemented at the Kennington Park Rd/Kennington Rd junction just north of the Oval. This is a world first - the first ever properly engineered "Cycle segregated" or "Hold the left" junction. And it is working perfectly. See longer report on the Southwark Cyclists website. http://southwarkcyclists.org.uk/a-hold-the-left-junction-finally-built/
A new, safe, junction design has been implemented at the Kennington Park Rd/Kennington Rd junction just north of the Oval. This is a world first - the first ever properly engineered "Cycle segregated" or "Hold the left" junction. And it is working perfectly. See longer report on the Southwark Cyclists website. http://southwarkcyclists.org.uk/a-hold-the-left-junction-finally-built/
Peckham Coal Line
Imaginative scheme for "High Line" park plus walking/cycle link from Queens Rd to Rye Lane. More information here and here. They need funds for a feasibility study, so contribute if you can here.
Imaginative scheme for "High Line" park plus walking/cycle link from Queens Rd to Rye Lane. More information here and here. They need funds for a feasibility study, so contribute if you can here.
The 5 Parks Route: from the river to the hills
How about a new leisure walking and cycling route running across the Borough of Southwark and linking all the principal open spaces? See proposal at http://southwarkcyclists.org.uk/proposal-for-a-new-route-the-five-parks-route/
How about a new leisure walking and cycling route running across the Borough of Southwark and linking all the principal open spaces? See proposal at http://southwarkcyclists.org.uk/proposal-for-a-new-route-the-five-parks-route/
Cycling and the OKRAAP
Old Kent Road Area Action Plan
See the slides of my presentation to the OKR Forum in Bruce's Blog
Old Kent Road Area Action Plan
See the slides of my presentation to the OKR Forum in Bruce's Blog
Physical Activity twice as good as Dieting for longevity
New data from a huge study of over 300,000 participants confirms the importance of physical activity if you want to avoid an early death.
See my Blog for more.
New data from a huge study of over 300,000 participants confirms the importance of physical activity if you want to avoid an early death.
See my Blog for more.
Obesity and Cycling to School
Data from Public Health England assign Southwark the doubtful honour of having the fattest 10-11 year olds in the whole of England. Could this be because only a paltry 0.7% cycle to school? See Blog for more on this
Data from Public Health England assign Southwark the doubtful honour of having the fattest 10-11 year olds in the whole of England. Could this be because only a paltry 0.7% cycle to school? See Blog for more on this
Draft London Cycle Design Standard
Have submitted some comments bang on the deadline. Key points:
Have submitted some comments bang on the deadline. Key points:
- Be much more positive about the value of shared pedestrian/cycle space
- Focus on the key role of junctions
- Remove left hooks by appropriate signalling
- Make 2-stage right turns the default option
- Only use 2-way tracks as a last resort
-
A good rule is to always keep the cyclist next to the
kerb
Full comments here
You will need the draft to make sense of these, link here (9Mb)
See also item below, although I am a bit happier about this aspect of the LCDS as there is plenty of sensible stuff on shared cycle/pedestrian space in the detailed sections.
The importance of shared pedestrian and cycle space
Southwark Council and also the new London Cycle Design Standard are against cyclists and pedestrians sharing space. This would greatly reduce opportunities for inexpensive improvements in safe cycling provision. See fuller analysis in my blog.
Southwark Council and also the new London Cycle Design Standard are against cyclists and pedestrians sharing space. This would greatly reduce opportunities for inexpensive improvements in safe cycling provision. See fuller analysis in my blog.
Increasing cycling will hugely improve the health of Londoners
Increasing cycling in line with the Mayor’s vision will give Londoners around 5000 years of extra healthy life, with an economic benefit of £250 million. If all journeys that could be walked or cycled were walked or cycled, this would provide a £2 billion economic benefit. This information comes from a new study by Lucy Saunders (Public Health Specialist at the GLA). Report is called Transport and Health in London and is well worth a read – it is nice and concise. Link here.
Increasing cycling in line with the Mayor’s vision will give Londoners around 5000 years of extra healthy life, with an economic benefit of £250 million. If all journeys that could be walked or cycled were walked or cycled, this would provide a £2 billion economic benefit. This information comes from a new study by Lucy Saunders (Public Health Specialist at the GLA). Report is called Transport and Health in London and is well worth a read – it is nice and concise. Link here.
Elephant and Castle Northern Junction
Public consultation
Initial comments in Bruce's Blog
Watch this space for more material
Public consultation
Initial comments in Bruce's Blog
Watch this space for more material
#ChooseCycling
British Cycling have launched their 10-point plan to get Britain cycling at Northern European levels. Accompanied by a new analysis if health benefits of cycling by James Woodcock (Uni Cambridge) More information here.
British Cycling have launched their 10-point plan to get Britain cycling at Northern European levels. Accompanied by a new analysis if health benefits of cycling by James Woodcock (Uni Cambridge) More information here.
Grids, Quietways, Superhighways
All very seductive - but do we really want to end up with just a limited cycle network serving a minority of destinations? See my blog and comment.
All very seductive - but do we really want to end up with just a limited cycle network serving a minority of destinations? See my blog and comment.
Cycling for Health Powerpoint Updated. New version (June 2014) of my powerpoint, for lecture in PTRC Cycling for Transport lecture series, linked below.
| talk_ptrcformat_2014.ppt |
Cycling Lessons for London
John Dales and others have visited 12 cities on a TfL comissioned study. Gave a Street Talk about this on Dec 5th. Read more on Bruce's Blog
John Dales and others have visited 12 cities on a TfL comissioned study. Gave a Street Talk about this on Dec 5th. Read more on Bruce's Blog
Grange get Cycling Report now available
Well we did it! Succesfully got 16 people cycling using a de-luxe approach with individual leafletting of flats and free everything. Given the low levels of cycling in Southwark, these 16 probably equate to a 9% increase in cycling. Just from 2 volunteers and £1360 for bike hire and other expenses.
Have learned a huge amount about what works and what does not. Would love to see a follow-on project using this experience to get people cycling over a larger area than just part of one ward.
Very happy to come and talk to anyone, anytime, about this.
Summary and full report on my blog, where you can also comment.
Well we did it! Succesfully got 16 people cycling using a de-luxe approach with individual leafletting of flats and free everything. Given the low levels of cycling in Southwark, these 16 probably equate to a 9% increase in cycling. Just from 2 volunteers and £1360 for bike hire and other expenses.
Have learned a huge amount about what works and what does not. Would love to see a follow-on project using this experience to get people cycling over a larger area than just part of one ward.
Very happy to come and talk to anyone, anytime, about this.
Summary and full report on my blog, where you can also comment.
Old Kent Road - need for better crossings
Comments regarding cycling. In relation to Old Kent Road walkabouts and workshop: Report of Findings (Southwark Council, August 2013) See blog
Comments regarding cycling. In relation to Old Kent Road walkabouts and workshop: Report of Findings (Southwark Council, August 2013) See blog
Cyclists live 6 years longer
At least Tour de France cyclists do!. Nice study of participants from 1947 onwards (786 of them) showing greatly reduced mortality, notably for death from cancer and heart disease. More here.
At least Tour de France cyclists do!. Nice study of participants from 1947 onwards (786 of them) showing greatly reduced mortality, notably for death from cancer and heart disease. More here.
Cyclists outnumber all motorised traffic by 3 to 2 on Jamaica Rd, see blog
|
CTC Award
Yes, this is me with my Local Campaigner of 2012 Award from the Cycling Touring Club (CTC). Came completely out of the blue, but as you can see, I am very pleased (that's a sort of smile for the camera, really...). More info here. |
Get Britain Cycling. Report from the MPs and Peers cycling enquiry has been published today (24/4/13). In fact there are 3 reports. The Summary and Recommendations (8 pages and lots of pictures); a Report by Prof Phil Goodwin (86 pages and lots of footnotes - no piccies); and a report compiling all the evidence - cannot find this, so maybe not published yet. Very positive with lots on health benefits: "When more people cycle or walk, public health improves, obesity reduces and roads become safer." (from the Foreword).
Cycling for health update
Follow up to document sent in February. Pointing out:
(1) How rubbish UK is in international health comparisons;
(2) The Live Well, Live Longer report from the Dept of Health;
(3) Vision for Cycling in London
Stressing how all these point to the need for getting people active and that cycling is the best way to do this. Sent out March 16th, 2013
Follow up to document sent in February. Pointing out:
(1) How rubbish UK is in international health comparisons;
(2) The Live Well, Live Longer report from the Dept of Health;
(3) Vision for Cycling in London
Stressing how all these point to the need for getting people active and that cycling is the best way to do this. Sent out March 16th, 2013
| cyclingforhealth_update.doc |
Boris's Vision for Cycling in London
Lots of fine words. A bit more money. Getting the money spent sensibly could be the problem. For example still talking about advanced stop lights at junctions - dangerous waste of resources. Full report here. LCC comments here. Analysis from Road Danger Reduction Forum (RDRF) here.
Lots of fine words. A bit more money. Getting the money spent sensibly could be the problem. For example still talking about advanced stop lights at junctions - dangerous waste of resources. Full report here. LCC comments here. Analysis from Road Danger Reduction Forum (RDRF) here.
Cycling and Health Initiative for Southwark and Lambeth
Attached is a document setting out some of the ways that cycling could be increased as part of the Health and Wellbeing strategy for Southwark and Lambeth. Southwark Cyclists, Lambeth Cyclists and the Guy's and St Thomas' Bicycle User Group have sent this to the Director of Public Health and the cabinet members for health on the 2 councils (on 23/2/13). If anyone has dealings with someone on the Health and Wellbeing Boards of Southwark or Lambeth, please send them a copy or give them the link to this page. You can find information about the Health and Wellbeing boards here for Southwark and here for Lambeth.
Attached is a document setting out some of the ways that cycling could be increased as part of the Health and Wellbeing strategy for Southwark and Lambeth. Southwark Cyclists, Lambeth Cyclists and the Guy's and St Thomas' Bicycle User Group have sent this to the Director of Public Health and the cabinet members for health on the 2 councils (on 23/2/13). If anyone has dealings with someone on the Health and Wellbeing Boards of Southwark or Lambeth, please send them a copy or give them the link to this page. You can find information about the Health and Wellbeing boards here for Southwark and here for Lambeth.
| cycling_and_health_in_southwark_lambethv04.doc |
Southwark Healthy Rides
Who comes on them? Why? Do they get people cycling more? See my analysis of 18 months - 42 rides.
Who comes on them? Why? Do they get people cycling more? See my analysis of 18 months - 42 rides.
| rev2011_12healthy_rides.doc |
Cycling is safe
New analysis shows that for trips of a given distance, e.g. to shops or work, cycling and walking are equally safe. See my blog for more.
Cycling for Health
Cycling is a great form of exercise, and it:
What is the evidence regarding cycling and health? Check it out on the Evidence Base pages
How about going on one of my short healthy rides? Or check other easy-paced rides here. Easy-paced rides are enough to produce a useful fitness benefit, see heart rate data here.
Or if you do not feel ready, have some cycle lessons from the Cycle Instructors
This site belongs to Bruce Lynn, a retired academic with an interest in exercise and health. I love cycling and am active in Southwark Cyclists, including organising the Healthy Rides programme.
- Saves you time
- Saves you money
- Reduces your carbon footprint
What is the evidence regarding cycling and health? Check it out on the Evidence Base pages
How about going on one of my short healthy rides? Or check other easy-paced rides here. Easy-paced rides are enough to produce a useful fitness benefit, see heart rate data here.
Or if you do not feel ready, have some cycle lessons from the Cycle Instructors
This site belongs to Bruce Lynn, a retired academic with an interest in exercise and health. I love cycling and am active in Southwark Cyclists, including organising the Healthy Rides programme.
