Last week London experienced one of its perennial tube strikes, and for two days commuters were denied their usual route to work. Local cyclists rose to the challenge, and came up with a Bike the Strike campaign to aid their beleaguered non-cycling counterparts.
A hasty website, biketube, was set up with an ingenious solution. Experienced riders agreed to rendez-vous with novice cyclists, and lead a ride between popular tube stations. ‘Bike tubes’ took inexperienced riders down all the shortcuts and quiet streets that take years of city cycling to discover, and eased commuters into the thrills of London biking.
Cycling, especially in London, is a good option. It is proven to be the fastest form of transport in the inner city. It’s healthy, saves you money, and reduces congestion, air pollution, and CO2 emissions.
The Bike Tube is a timely success story for Bike Week, which runs nationwide this week in the UK. Transport for London have launched a new cycling section of their website, with tips and maps to get started. There are also details of where you can do some cycle training, a weather update, and some good news about a city bike hire scheme, finally arriving in London next spring.
Other events are planned up and down the country, from rides to courses, to workshops and Bike Dr sessions. Even Luton has a ride planned, celebrating the opening of the latest section of a Luton to Harpenden bike path, part of the ongoing National Cycle Network.
To take part in Bike Week, click here to find out what’s happening near you.
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