10 Facts About Cycling to Work That Will Encourage You to Ride Even More
In recent years, cycling to work has transformed from a niche activity into a growing trend among urban dwellers seeking healthier, more sustainable lifestyles. There’s something that just feels different when you cycle to work versus arriving by car. I noticed a little extra pep in my step on days that I used my bike to go into the office. It turns out there are plenty of scientific data and insight backing this up. I wanted to dig a little deeper and find more interesting information about commuting by bicycle to work that might encourage others to do the same. Fact 1: Fantastic Health Benefits Cycling isn’t just good for your physical fitness; it’s a lifesaver. Studies have consistently shown…
The Joys and Benefits of Group Cycling: 7 Reasons Why You Should Join In
Cycling is not just a solitary sport; it’s a vibrant community activity that brings together people of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re a seasoned road warrior or a weekend peddler, joining a cycling group can dramatically enhance your cycling experience. Here are seven compelling reasons why you should consider group cycling. 1. Enhanced Safety One of the biggest advantages of group cycling is safety. Riding with others makes you more visible to motorists, reducing the likelihood of accidents. Moreover, should an emergency arise, such as a puncture or a fall, you’re not alone; fellow riders can provide immediate help. This collective safety net allows you to enjoy rides with peace of mind. Studies suggest that drivers leave a larger…
How Bicycle’s Became London’s Saviors During WWII Blitz Bombings
The humble bicycle played a significant and important role during one of the darkest periods in British history. The London Blitz was a major chapter in the history of World War II, characterized by the sustained bombing campaign carried out by Nazi Germany against Britain. The term “Blitz” comes from the German word “Blitzkrieg,” meaning “lightning war,” and it aptly describes the intense, rapid bombings that took place. The Reason Behind the Blitz The Blitz began on September 7, 1940, and continued until May 11, 1941. During this period, London was bombed for 56 out of the first 57 days and nights. The attacks then spread to other major British cities, including Coventry, Birmingham, Liverpool, and Manchester, among others. The…
How Bicycles Paved the Way for Women’s Rights
In the late 19th century, a time marked by rigid social norms and restrictive expectations for women, a simple invention—the bicycle—became an unexpected symbol of freedom and change. The women’s suffrage movement, which fought tirelessly for women’s rights to vote and have equal standing in society, found an unlikely ally in this new mode of transportation. The bicycle not only challenged the status quo but also empowered women in ways that were both practical and profound. Breaking Away from Victorian Restrictions During Victorian times, women were expected to wear heavy, cumbersome dresses and corsets that limited physical activity and were a daily reminder of the restrictive roles women were supposed to play in society. Enter the bicycle: a tool that…
‘They’re Weak’: 7 Common Misconceptions About Folding Bikes
Folding bikes have gained significant traction in recent years. Offering commuters and urban dwellers a convenient, space-saving bicycle, they’ve become a mode of transport in their own right. Despite their practicality and efficiency, some common misconceptions surround the compact two-wheelers. We debunk some myths and misunderstandings about folding bikes. 1. “They’re Only For Commuting” While we often associate folding bikes with urban commuters, politicians, and middle managers, their versatility extends far beyond the daily grind. Yes, their small footprint and short wheelbase mean they excel in navigating crowded city streets and weaving through traffic. But their utility doesn’t end there. They’re a perfect companion for travel and leisure. Want to take a ride further afield on the weekend? A folding…
‘Is It Art?’: 5 Ingenious Bicycle Storage Solutions for Small Apartments
You’ve probably given up a couple of things as the cost of living soars—and NO, we’re not talking about those new carbon-framed road bikes. Many of us have made sacrifices in the face of sky-high food prices and lofty energy prices – and there are some ambitions that we’ve had to shelve Unfortunately, if you’re under forty, home-ownership might just be one of them. While we’d all love a spacious garage where we can stow away our treasured bikes, the reality is often a cramped rented apartment. Sometimes, even just a room. But, a small space doesn’t have to mean tripping over your commuter bike every time you get out of bed. In these tough times, cyclists are getting creative…
Hooded Thief Steals Bicycle in Seconds Using an Angle Grinder in Broad Daylight
This viral video might change your mind if you’re unsure about investing in a proper bicycle lock system. A 14-second video online shows a bicycle thief using an angle grinder to cut through a bike lock like a hot knife through butter. In the blink of an eye, the hooded thief stole a bicycle in broad daylight while people walked past, and a bystander filmed him. The incident reportedly took place on Redchurch Street in Shoreditch, London. The X account, named, London & UK Street News (@CrimeLdn), shared the clip with fellow Londoners commenting that this is sadly a very common sight. “Right by Columbia Road flower market. There has been rampant bike theft round there for over a decade,”…
This Cyclist’s Quick Actions Stopped a Horse From Crashing Into A Peloton
We’ve all seen the iconic footage of the horse joining a peloton of cyclists in 1997 during the Critérium International, a three-stage race held in southern France. It shows a brown horse leaping over a fence and joining a group of cyclists while TV cameras roll. The footage later made it into the French film Amélie and went viral again in 2023, when it resurfaced. Now, the internet is buzzing over a similar incident during the opening stage of the 2024 Arden Challenge in Belgium’s Luxembourg province. The video shows a brown and white horse galloping behind a peloton of riders – its rider missing. Luckily, 23-year-old cyclist Lars Daniels, who grew up around horses, knew exactly what to do…