Londoners are increasingly using bikes to get to work and cycle round the capital, according to new research from Lime, the world’s largest provider of shared e-bikes and e-scooters.

The study, which surveyed over 1,000 Londoners, found that more than half (55%) of Londoners cycle to work at least once a week, while nearly 1 in 10 (9%) cycle to work every day.

As cycling rates surge in London with over 1 million cycling journeys a day in 2024, over 2 in 5 (42%) Londoners said they get on their bike because it gets them to work faster, while just under a quarter (23%) say they feel happier when they spend time outdoors on their commute.

This comes amid ongoing support for cycling from the Mayor of London, who set out a target in his Transport Strategy for 80% of all trips in London to be made on foot, by bike or using public transport by 2041.

Other benefits called out were being more cost-effective than other forms of transport (45% of Londoners) and staying healthier and active (45%)

As e-bikes boom across the capital, the research also found that 2 in 5 (40%) Londoners use a rental e-bike at least once a month, with over 1 in 3 (34%) starting to cycle more since rental e-bikes became available in London.

However, the research also noted barriers for Londoners when it comes to cycling.

A third (33%) said that they would cycle more if there were more cycle lanes or increased cycling infrastructure across the city. Meanwhile, 32% of Londoners would cycle more frequently if they had more confidence in their cycling abilities.

Hal Stevenson, Director of Policy for Lime UK, said: “Cycling is quickly becoming the number one transport option for many Londoners, especially when it comes to getting to and from work.

Our research shows there are a huge number of benefits that people experience in using more sustainable forms of transportation when commuting, from time saving to even just their general mood. We’re excited to be working with boroughs across the capital to play a role in growing this community of cycle commuters, and are committed to ensuring cycling is safe and accessible for all as part of this”.
This new research follows Lime’s £20 million five-point London Action Plan unveiled in January, designed to help improve e-bike parking, encourage cycling safety and boost cycling rates across the capital.