It’s time to make cycling routes inclusive

London’s cycle network must be usable by the majority, including disabled cyclists using trikes, handcycles or tandems, argues Isabelle Clement

Cycling infrastructure is often designed with the fit and the brave in mind – as a result, disabled people are routinely denied access to adequate cycling opportunities. However, research by Transport for London (TfL) shows that in the capital 15% of disabled people use a cycle to get around occasionally or often, compared with 18% of non-disabled people.

There are significant barriers that prevent more disabled people from cycling when, for many, cycling is easier than walking. Lack of inclusive cycling infrastructure, such as poor road surfaces, bollards/gates and narrow cycle lanes, represents one obstacle. Another obstacle is the failure to recognise the need for appropriate parking and storage facilities for non-standard, often pricier, longer and wider cycles. 

At Wheels for Wellbeing we believe cycles should be seen as mobility aids (like mobility scooters) and have advocated the piloting of a Blue Badge scheme for disabled cyclists, including those who use oversized and non-standard cycles such as trikes, handcycles or tandems. 

Similarly, investment in electric bikes and bike hire schemes for non-standard cycles in the capital is essential if greater numbers of disabled and elderly people are to enjoy the benefits that cycling brings.

Off the road, a lack of awareness and information on inclusive cycling opportunities, a dearth of academic research and literature on the subject and a visual under-representation of non-standard cycles in cycling-related publications discourage many more disabled people from considering taking up cycling.   

Bicycles are not the only form of cycle, just as athletic, white males are not the only type of cyclist. By prioritising cycling investment to those with the highest needs and requirements, the London Mayor’s office can deliver a cycle network that is accessible to everyone, regardless of fitness or strength. In turn, this will produce significant health benefits for those Londoners most likely to be inactive and experience social isolation while reducing London’s chronic congestion problems. 

Finally, it could unleash a true cycling revolution: cycling by the majority, not the exception.

Our manifesto, Beyond the Bicycle, calls on the government to make three simple policy commitments that will ensure many more disabled Londoners take up cycling. 

Find out more about our manifesto at Transforming London Streets.

Isabelle Clement is director at Wheels for Wellbeing.