Sustrans’ Post

🚲**Creating Safe Routes for Children: A Step Towards a Healthier Future**🚲 The latest article from Phys.org dives into the persistent barriers that prevent children from biking to school and offers insightful solutions that can reshape our approach to cycling infrastructure. As we navigate an era where sustainability and active transportation are paramount, it's critical to address these challenges head-on. ### Key Barriers Identified: 1. **Safety Concerns**: A major deterrent for parents is the fear related to traffic, lack of bike lanes, and potential accidents. 2. **Infrastructure Deficiencies**: With current infrastructure often lacking the necessary accommodations for cyclists, conditions can be particularly hazardous for young riders. 3. **Parental Fears**: Especially in urban areas, heavy traffic exacerbates these concerns, overshadowing the benefits of biking. 4. **Inadequate Education**: Without proper training and knowledge, children are at a higher risk of accidents. ### Proposed Solutions: 1. **Enhanced Infrastructure**: The creation of dedicated bike lanes and safe routes tailored for school journeys can vastly improve safety. Cities that prioritize cycling infrastructure witness a notable increase in biking activity among all age groups. 2. **Cycling Education**: Integrating cycling education into school curriculums can empower children with the skills and confidence needed to navigate roads safely. 3. **Parental Involvement**: By fostering parental support through organized biking groups or "bike buses," community cohesion and safety awareness can be significantly enhanced. 4. **Community Engagement**: Building a culture that celebrates and promotes cycling through community programs and events can shift perspectives and increase participation. ### Implications for the Industry: For bike manufacturers and retailers, these insights present a golden opportunity. By advocating for and contributing to safer cycling infrastructures and educational programs, we can not only drive sales but also foster a generation of responsible young cyclists. We can support community efforts and partner with schools to promote cycling training programs, ultimately embedding cycling as a viable and preferred mode of transportation. ### Call to Action: Let's leverage our expertise and influence to make biking accessible, safe, and enjoyable for the next generation. Join the discussion on how we can collectively overcome these barriers. Share your thoughts, experiences, and innovative solutions in the comments below. For more information about our initiatives and how we're contributing to a safer cycling future, visit [Bike Stand Company](https://bikestand.company). #CyclingSafety #Infrastructure #SustainableTransportation #CommunityEngagement #BikeToSchool

Some very welcome news today! The government have announced that there will be “unprecedented levels of funding” for cycling and walking along with an overhauling of the way this is allocated. But perhaps more importantly is the recognition that cycling can deliver so many health benefits, along side the more obvious environmental and economic ones. As a parent and the founder of Cycle Sprog, I’ve seen first hand how difficult it is for most families to choose cycling for everyday journeys. It’s very unusual for there to be safe cycling routes all the way from home to school here in the UK, especially outside of the major city centres. If there is safe infrastructure it usually ends at some point, throwing you dangerously out into the traffic. That is why here at Cycle Sprog HQ we were so pleased when we heard about the government’s announcement. Will this finally be the change we need to make it easier and safer for children to cycle to school and for families to use bikes in their daily lives? It surely can’t be any worse than what we’ve currently got! The current system is broken. Councils spend excessive amounts on consultants to bid for small pots of money, competing against each other, with most proposals inevitably failing. This patchwork approach means many communities lack joined-up, safe routes that connect schools, parks, and shops. For parents trying to juggle work, school runs, and after-school activities, cycling isn’t a viable option without safe, continuous networks. These changes have the potential to fix that. By streamlining funding and focusing on strategic investments, we could finally see routes that take children directly where they need to go—safe from traffic and designed with young cyclists in mind. This would not only reduce congestion and pollution around schools but also make the school run cheaper and less stressful for parents. On top of that, there are clear health benefits. Giving children the opportunity to cycle to school daily builds exercise into their routine, reducing the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes. It’s a simple, effective way to keep kids active and healthy, especially in a world where screen time is on the rise and outdoor play is decreasing. For cycling campaigners, these changes represent an opportunity to push for comprehensive networks that meet real community needs, rather than settling for isolated infrastructure. It’s time to build cycling systems that work for families and encourage more people to make the shift to two wheels. This isn’t just about improving cycling—it’s about building healthier, more sustainable communities for everyone. If we get this right, it could be a turning point for giving our children the future they deserve. #CycleSprog #Cycling #ActiveTravel #CycleToSchool #ActiveKids

💡 Why is it important to start a cycling culture with small children?💡 A cycling culture should start with kids, allowing them to improve their health, social interaction, and learning process. However, Latin American cities have some barriers linked to insecure cycling infrastructure, road safety, and weak cycling habits. In this blog article, Amanda Padilla discusses how a cycling activity focused on small infants integrally addresses their well-being and harvests long-term positive impacts on society, the environment, and mobility. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/exVqxATK #obesity #children #cyclingculture

I’m really excited about the launch of Haringey Council's boroughwide dockless e-bike scheme, bringing equitable and sustainable transportation to all residents. In partnership with Lime and Forest, this initiative aims to make cycling more accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages and backgrounds. The introduction of e-bikes is a game-changer for Haringey's cycling infrastructure, particularly for older adults. People over 65 comprise the largest group of adults who cycle in the Netherlands, largely due to the combination of traffic-calmed streets, safe cycling networks, and the popularity of e-bikes. Haringey Council's commitment to cycling is evident through our numerous initiatives, including the implementation of 1.6 miles of protected cycle lanes, with an additional 4 miles underway. The council is also developing an affordable bike scheme for low-income households, designing an innovative cycle training program, and expanding secure on-street and estate cycle storage, with 720 additional spaces being installed in the next couple of months. We are also committed to continued support for Pedal Power, the local cycling club for people with learning disabilities. Lime and Forest are committed to ensuring social equity in their services. Both companies offer discounts and concessions for various groups, including students, NHS workers, emergency service workers, Freedom Pass and Jobcentre Plus travel card holders. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, can benefit from the e-bike scheme. As Haringey continues to invest in its cycling infrastructure and promote the use of e-bikes, it is creating an age-friendly environment that allows everyone, including older adults, to be active, independent, connected. Building sustainable transport infrastructure is giving people choice in the way they get around, whilst tackling climate change and improving health and wellbeing. https://lnkd.in/eMSCT5yP

DON'T OVERWHELM THE LITTLE ONES! As a seasoned dad, coach, and lifelong sports enthusiast, I understand the importance of fostering joy and fun in children's physical activities, including cycling. 🚴 Unfortunately, parents, in their enthusiasm, can sometimes push their children too hard, leading to frustration and a loss of joy and enthusiasm for cycling. That's exactly what we want to avoid! So, what can we do? ✅ Choose the right bike wisely.  Before heading to the store, make sure your child is with you and has a chance to try out the bike. It should be lightweight, have age- and height-appropriate geometry, and be properly adjusted. Your child should feel comfortable and safe riding it. ✅Don't underestimate the terrain and route.  Start with shorter, less demanding routes. Gradually, as your child's strength and experience grow, you can extend and toughen up the route. ✅Make the ride fun! Show your child that cycling is fun! Discover new and interesting places together, plan your route together, and enjoy fun exercise.Cycling brings people together, so go on a trip with another family! More cyclists, more fun!😄 ✅Spice up the ride! Stop for ice cream, organize races, venture off the bike path onto a trail for some adrenaline, play hide-and-seek in the woods... the possibilities are endless! ✅Watch out for fatigue.  Even the most enthusiastic cyclist has their limits. If your child shows signs of tiredness, don't force them to keep pedaling. Take a break, rest, and then set off again with renewed energy. ✅Motivate Be a role model and support for your child. Motivate them, encourage them, and don't forget to appreciate their efforts. And of course, lots of praise! 😉 Remember: It's not about covering the most miles, but about enjoying the ride and spending time with your child. Cycling should be a source of joy and fun for the whole family, not stress and exhaustion.👍 What about you? What tips do you have for making bike rides with kids more fun? #Beany #BestKidsBikes #cycling #sport

💡 Why is it important to start a cycling culture with small children?💡 A cycling culture should start with kids, allowing them to improve their health, social interaction, and learning process. However, Latin American cities have some barriers linked to insecure cycling infrastructure, road safety, and weak cycling habits. In this blog article, Amanda Padilla discusses how a cycling activity focused on small infants integrally addresses their well-being and harvests long-term positive impacts on society, the environment, and mobility. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/exVqxATK #obesity #children #cyclingculture

Public Consultation Begins on Enhancing Walking and Cycling Paths in Crossgates. Local residents, schools, and businesses in the Crossgates area are invited to share their input on proposed enhancements to the walking and cycling infrastructure. The initiative aims to foster safer and healthier streets, facilitating easier and more convenient walking, wheeling, and cycling for short trips to schools, local shops, and central Crossgates. The project, funded by a £1.9 million government grant, will focus on improvements along Barwick Road, and in the Swarcliffe, Manston, and Poole Estate areas. Community feedback previously indicated challenges in crossing busy intersections and issues with the connectivity and signage of existing cycle paths. The new plans seek to mitigate these issues by improving road crossing points, enhancing the connectivity of bike paths, and increasing overall safety for all road users. The proposed enhancements for the Crossgates area include several key infrastructure changes aimed at improving safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists https://lnkd.in/grmetZZf #LeedsNews #LeedsStar #LeedsStarNewspaper #LeedsCityCouncil #VisitLeeds #Leeds

HI everingone Coming to a school and nursery near you! Since 2007 when CYCLEDELIK started, cycling uptake has been noticeable amongst the commuters and the occasional leisure riders. Unfortunately when it comes to one of the major causes of congestion in any big town or city in the UK including London: The nursery & school runs cycling uptake is not where it should be! Over the years we have spoken to 1000s of clients in relation to why they choose to drive to the nursery or the school. The answers are always the same to date: Dangerous traffic and road conditions Poorly designed quiet routes for cargobike use with barriers only wide enough for a bicycle to fit through Traffic lights taking too long for cyclists especially when it is raining! The cycle highways are simply not for us We have nowhere to park it as we live in a flat Not enough incentives as some cargobikes are expensive to buy Confusing information on which cargobike to buy Risk of theft Lack of confidence to ride one Lack of time to try test riding a cargobike Well. At CYCLEDELIK LIMITED we have listened and here is our plan but we will not be able to do it alone! We will need help from local authorities, councils and government to assist with the NetZero mission by way of improving roads infrastructure and making it safe for vulnerable road users to cycle and having accessible eBike charging stations such as eBiketricity We are encouraging everyone to: Join the cargobike riders enjoying trafficless and congestion free nursery runs, school runs, commute to work and even groceries shopping. How? By booking a free test ride today on a Ca Go Bike or a Butchers & Bicycles and discover all the amazing benefits a cargobike has to offer including going from A to B in any major city in the quickest possible time. Or, joining our community workshops and led rides. Simply book online at CYCLEDELIK.COM choose a location and we'll sort the rest. Not sure how to handle or ride a cargobike? Not a problem. We are here to help. Just call us on 03331230500 for an assessment over the phone prior to arranging a guided riding cession for yourself, a family or a team member. As for cycle parking, training, insurance and security, we recommend the following: Cyclehoop is a great way to start if your neighbourhood or street is lacking safe parking spots The Bikeability Trust to improve your riding skills Laka for insuring you bicycle CYCLEDELIK for enhanced cycle security AUTHORISED AND APPROVED CARGOBIKE & EBIKE DEALERS. For all the brands we represent, visit cycledelik.store

Public Consultation Begins on Enhancing Walking and Cycling Paths in Crossgates. Local residents, schools, and businesses in the Crossgates area are invited to share their input on proposed enhancements to the walking and cycling infrastructure. The initiative aims to foster safer and healthier streets, facilitating easier and more convenient walking, wheeling, and cycling for short trips to schools, local shops, and central Crossgates. The project, funded by a £1.9 million government grant, will focus on improvements along Barwick Road, and in the Swarcliffe, Manston, and Poole Estate areas. Community feedback previously indicated challenges in crossing busy intersections and issues with the connectivity and signage of existing cycle paths. The new plans seek to mitigate these issues by improving road crossing points, enhancing the connectivity of bike paths, and increasing overall safety for all road users. The proposed enhancements for the Crossgates area include several key infrastructure changes aimed at improving safety and accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists https://lnkd.in/grmetZZf #LeedsNews #LeedsStar #LeedsStarNewspaper #LeedsCityCouncil #VisitLeeds #Leeds

A good mate told me the other day during our training session: Did you realise that we rarely see a rider in their 30s? Let alone anyone younger?!! In a world where digital reigns supreme, the humble bicycle often gets left in the dust. Yet, the secret to rekindling the flame between youngsters and cycling lies not in the bike itself but in the story it tells and the adventure it promises. Envision cycling not merely as a sport or a leisure activity but as a thrilling rite of passage—a voyage from the end of the driveway to the precipice of independence. This metamorphosis in the narrative elevates cycling from a mundane activity to an exploration of freedom, environmental stewardship, and physical well-being. The key? Innovation and community. Incorporate technology – think cycling apps that gamify distance and speed and even track carbon footprint savings. This way, we can bridge the gap between the digital world and the physical activity of cycling. Make it social; establish youth cycling clubs that aren't just about the ride but about the shared experience, the camaraderie, and the collective adventure. Education plays a pivotal role, too. Schools partnering with local cycling clubs and organisations to introduce cycling as part of the curriculum can spark interest from an early age. It's about embedding the love for cycling in the fabric of daily life, making it as essential as the smartphone in their pocket. Parks and pump tracks are safer than open roads, and luckily, they're getting more popular nowadays. But the true catalyst for change? Visibility. Let's celebrate young cyclists. Spotlight their triumphs, not only in competitions but also in their contributions to sustainability and community enhancement. Let their stories ignite inspiration in others, fostering a self-perpetuating cycle of engagement and enthusiasm. The question isn't how to keep youngsters cycling. It's how to make cycling a key part of their journey to adulthood. Let's start the conversation. Share your thoughts or tag someone who's making a difference in the world of youth cycling. The road ahead is exciting, and it's paved with opportunity. Foto de Yan Krukau: https://lnkd.in/dAysup2n