Five reasons to switch to cycling in Kingston this summer

5 reasons to switch to cycling this summer illustrated with people on bikes

There has never been a better time to get about on your bicycle in Kingston. 

Kingston Council’s commitment to supporting cycling as an attractive, safe and enjoyable way to travel around is part of the council’s priority to ensure a greener borough for the future. There are many reasons for residents, workers and visitors to choose to travel by bike this summer 

Cllr Ian Manders, Portfolio Holder for Climate Action & Sustainable Transport, said: 

“The warm and long summer days are the ideal time of year for children and parents, and adults new to biking to discover the joy of journeys on two wheels. Kingston has so many quiet back roads, parks and green spaces to explore, connected by the modern, safer cycling routes installed by the council with funding from Transport for London.”

Top 5 reasons to switch to cycling this summer

1. Easier and safer than ever with cycle routes taking you between neighbourhoods and across the borough

£32 million has been invested into upgrading cycling infrastructure along Kingston’s major routes with Kingston one of three outer London boroughs to benefit from the Mayor of London’s mini Holland funding. An example is the beautiful Beeline Way route that links New Malden to Raynes Park.

2. Healthy way to get from A to B

Any form of active travel, where your body provides the energy for the journey, will help maintain your health and fitness and should make you feel good too! And studies have shown you’ll breathe cleaner air as a cyclist than you would as a driver or passenger.

3. Greener transport 

Be the solution to pollution by switching some journeys from the car and help fight climate change.

4. Cheap and convenient 

Save on fares, fuel and charges for ULEZ or parking when you travel by bike. Maintaining and securing your bike is affordable, with bike hangers, security marking and maintenance undercutting car servicing and parking. The borough also has several cycle shops for purchasing bikes maintenance and accessories. No bike of your own? No problem! You can try before you buy and pay monthly or even hire a Human Forest e-bike around Kingston town centre. 

5. Fun 

Experience the freedom of biking in the summer. Kingston has some great leisure cycle routes. Cycling is a great social activity for families and friends. There are a range of social rides to make new friends on two wheels too!

Further information about cycle skill courses, bike maintenance, storage and security, e-bike hire and monthly rental, social rides and self guided leisure routes can all be found on Kingston Council’s cycling web pages.

Published: 7th July 2023