Research Reveals The Uk’s Top 10 Most Dangerous Cities For Cyclists

• Sheffield crowned as nation’s most feared city for cyclists

• Young Brits remain fearless while 35+ terrified of getting on two wheels 

• Top fears include being hit by a car, road rage and theft

• Swapfiets launches worry-free cycle sessions in response


  
  

  

  
  

A shocking 90% of Brits are too scared to cycle in UK cities, with Sheffield named as the most dangerous city for cyclists, according to a new survey by bike subscription service Swapfiets.

The findings, based on responses from 2,000 UK adults, reveal Sheffield as the UK’s scariest city to get on two wheels, followed closely by Nottingham, Brighton, Plymouth, and Cardiff.

Other major cities rounding out the top 10 include Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester, Belfast, and Southampton, highlighting a nationwide fear of cycling in UK cities.

When it comes to why Brits fear getting on two wheels, would-be cyclists cite being hit by a car (68%) and being a victim of road rage (54%) as their biggest fears. Other cycling fears include having their bike or other property stolen (47%), being unable to stop (34%) and getting lost (27%).

These fears are most prevalent in older Brits, as almost 90% of 35-44 year olds claim they are terrified of city cycling. Younger Brits are the most fearless, with less than a quarter of under 24-year-olds claiming they fear getting on two wheels in UK cities. 

Women are more than twice as likely to fear city cycling, as 9 in 10 claim getting on two wheels terrifies them compared to just 2 in 5 men.

To help Brits build confidence and get more of the nation on two wheels, Swapfiets is relaunching its worry-free cycling sessions. Swapfiets’ in-house experts have developed each session to provide cyclists of all levels with guided city tours, helping them to beat their city cycling fears.

Rory MacPhee, UK Country Manager at Swapfiets, said: "The findings of our study are a wake-up call. With over 90% of the nation fearing urban cycling and projected failures to meet 2030 net zero targets, it's clear that current efforts are falling short. 

“We're calling on the government to not only reinstate but increase the active travel budget in October. Improved cycling infrastructure and education are critical to overcoming the barriers that prevent people from choosing sustainable transport options. By prioritising these investments, we can address climate goals, improve public health, and create more livable cities for all."

Swapfiets' latest research builds on earlier findings which revealed that 55% of Brits want more car-free zones in their cities. Yet, despite 44% expressing a desire to cycle more, only 12% currently commute by bike.