Cycle Show starts on Friday

Over the last five years cycling has seen a huge boost and compelling statistics show the increase in cycling journeys across the capital and the country.
According to Sustrans, cycling trips on the National Cycle Network have increased from 41 million in 2000 to 117 million in 2005 -almost 3 times as many cycling trips on the Network in 2005 compared to 2001, an increase of 185%).
Funding has also increased significantly and in July this year the Government invested an additional £15m for cycling initiatives across the country.
Six towns across England have been turned into Cycling Demonstration Towns. Aylesbury, Brighton and Hove, Darlington, Derby, Exeter and Lancaster with Morecambe are receiving a total of £17 million to test and demonstrate how European levels of investment can lead to a step change in cycling levels and all the associated benefits such as reduced congestion, better air quality and a healthier population.
European cities that have successfully increased cycling’ modal share have typically spent about £5 per head p.a. over a period of 10 to 15 years.
Cycling in London has seen a dramatic change and figures show a 72 percent increase in cycle journeys on London’ major roads over the last five years. In summer months that increase rises to 100 per cent.
It is estimated that there are now approximately 450,000 cycle journeys a day across London as a whole and there are more than 500km of London Cycle Network routes and 12,000 new cycle parking spaces in London.
In the capital, investment in cycling has risen during the past five years from £5.5m in 2000 to £24m in 2006/07. Transport for London is investing this money in cycling infrastructure, training, promotion and education.
According to Cycling England, more people should be cycling as it’ affordable, open to nearly everyone and improves life for both individuals and their communities.
The Cycle Show is the perfect place to find out how to get into cycling with loads of information all under one roof.
Interactive features include a bike test track so you can try all the latest bikes, the Cycling.tv studio where you can hear from cycling stars and legends, fashion shows and the Tri UK duathlon where you can compete to win a top road bike worth £1,500.
The Cycle Show takes place at ExCeL from October 6-8th. Tickets cost £12 on the door and £10 in advance and kids go for a quid.
www.cycleshow.co.uk