The heat is on this summer with the London Cycle Challenge run by Transport for London encouraging organisations and individual cyclists to compete against each other on two wheels.
Thousands of Londoners and commuters coming into the capital are expected to take part.
If you’re wondering about getting involved or haven’t heard of the challenge before, here’s everything you need to know.
What is the London Cycle Challenge?
The challenge aims to give cyclists, both regular and reluctant, added incentives to get to work on two wheels or just enjoy a weekend ride by offering titles and prizes for the most prolific riders.
When does the London Cycle Challenge take place?
The challenge will run between June 8 and 28.
What am I expected to do during the London Cycle Challenge?
Ride your bike as much as possible. Any ride of 10 minutes or more counts in the challenge. There is a handy mobile app available on Apple iOS and Android to record your rides.
How do I get app for the London Cycle Challenge?
You can download Love to Ride for Android here or for Apple devices here
What’s in it for me if I take part in the London Cycle Challenge?
You mean you want more than the chance to get lots of exercise and see London’s great outdoors? OK, well, for starters there are various titles you can win by taking part such as best newcomer, top explorer and top encourager for whoever gets the most people to join in. And there are prizes to be won, including Evans Cycles vouchers, Time Out London experiences, dinner on the Thames, a corporate Lee Valley BMX track experience Team GB cycling gear and VIP tickets to the Lovebox festival.
How does the London Cycle Challenge involve businesses and organisations?
Organisations and departments will compete against similar sized companies to ensure there is a level playing field. There are six categories: 500+, 200-499, 50-199, 20-49, 7-19, 3-6.
In addition to winners’ prizes, there are weekly spot prizes for organisations that have the highest percentage of staff participating.
Oh no, I don’t have a bike! Can I still join in the London Cycle Challenge?
Yes – if you’re not able to borrow a bike (your daughter’s little pink number with the basket on the front looks perfect for you), you can always use the Santander cycle-hire scheme (Boris Bikes) that covers 100km2 of the capital for as little as £2 a day.
Is there any help available if I’m an inexperienced cyclist?
TfL urges cyclists of all levels to undertake a cycle training session to ensure they are equipped with the important skills needed to ride safely.
Every London borough offers free or heavily subsidised one-to-one cycle training, tailored to individual needs. Bookings can be made at tfl.gov.uk/cycletraining
TfL also supports British Cycling in delivering led rides from short family-friendly routes through parks, waterways and forests to more challenging rides for experienced cyclists. Visit goskyride.com/London
How do I sign up for the London Cycle Challenge?
Registration is now open at tfl.gov.uk/cyclechallenge. Go for it, and happy pedaling!
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