London cyclists are braving the winter weather with October numbers surpassing the peak summer months, according to micromobility company Lime.
Figures published by the e-bike supplier show the number of trips taken in October was 24% high than June and July. The company said this was despite the darker evenings and wetter weather.
This differed from previous years with a 38% drop in rides between August and October 2019. Lime also found that riders in the capital are covering more miles than last year, the average length has increased to 1.5miles, a jump of 82%.
It did report that commuter journeys into Central London has decreased by 20% with many Londoners reaming at home.
Florence Milner, general manager, UK & Ireland at Lime, said: “During the first lockdown we saw traffic levels drop by nearly 80%, with many turning to cycling as a way to get around. This experience highlighted how much better the air quality could be if there were less cars on the road.
“These latest figures show that people are still willing to choose the sustainable option even when it’s not the height of summer and it is a promising look of what the future of sustainable transport can be. As we return back to ‘normal’, it is important we continue with this momentum and avoid a car-based recovery, focusing on the introduction of more cycle lanes and new forms of sustainable transport in the capital.”
Lime also reported that its e-bikes saw two million rides in London alone, including a 127% uptake in e-bike rides between March and October.
It has recently partnered with e-cargo and passenger bike service Pedal Me, London to reduce the amount of vehicle miles on the capital’s roads. Lime said it will also continue to work towards its carbon negative by 2025 target.
