Bradley Wiggins' success may encourage commuters to cycle

Bradley Wiggins’ Tour de France victory and a desire to avoid busy public transport services during the Olympics could see more people cycle to work.

Most commuters would be happy to just get to work on time rather than dream of winning the world’s most prestigious cycling event, like the London-raised rider.

But the good publicity generated by Wiggins’ victory and the anticipated successes for Team GB’s cycling team at the Olympic Games could see more people choose to cycle to work.

London’s workers may look upon two wheels even more favourably over the coming weeks when the transport network will be under strain from people travelling to Olympic events, while roads will be affected by the Olympic Route Network and Games Lanes.

Aidan Earl, who works in sales at Cycle Surgery on Great Portland Street, said the high profile enjoyed by cycling at the moment would “boost sales, full stop”.

“I think with the influence of British cycling in recent events people will be encouraged to cycle,” said Earl.

“But also with the Olympics a lot of people are looking to get on bikes to avoid being stuck on a train. They work independently of each other.

“People have been enquiring to make sure they get their bike back (from service) before the Olympic Games.”

Earl said it was too early to say for sure how much impact a successful summer for British cyclists would have on sales figures.

However, he said the government’s cycle to work scheme – which allows employees at some companies to take out a loan for a bicycle and cycling paraphernalia – would continue to be popular with workers looking to avoid a crowded commute.

Earl said: “The Cycle to Work scheme will always be popular and it has been consistently popular throughout the year, although it tends to gain popularity in the summer months.”

Mayor of London Boris Johnson, who was full of praise for Wiggins and the other Team Sky riders, expressed hope more people would cycle following their success.

Johnson said: “(Wiggins’) inspirational performances, ably supported by his fellow Team Sky riders including Brits Chris Froome and Mark Cavendish, will encourage thousands more people to take to two wheels.”