Cyclists’ experiences and expectations

Deciding on the destination and influence of events

Deciding where to go on a cycling trip is complex, with cyclists typically drawing upon ideas from multiple sources. Many (72%) say they research on Google or other websites. However, they may well already know broadly where they want to go before typing into a search engine. The search usually refines a preconceived idea into a more specific location. 

Top level inspiration may be built up over a long time from seeing destinations promoted or hearing the experiences of others. Two thirds (66%) say they use recommendations from friends or family. Two in five (40%) say they go back to places they already know.

Priorities for cycling routes and services

‘Attractive scenery’ is the most essential route feature for almost every respondent group by trip purpose, party type, age and gender, with two thirds (66%) saying this is ‘essential’. The only exception is that families and those for whom cycling is not the main trip purpose place similar importance on ‘routes free of motorised traffic’ (if not cycling on roads).

Mountain bike routes

The top route priority for mountain bikers is that trails are ‘maintained to stay fully open and free of hazards or diversions’, cited as ‘essential’ by 56%. This is followed by ‘challenging routes’, which 46% rate as ‘essential’.

Priority services (all cycling types)

‘Being made to feel welcome as a cyclist’ is the top answer in every respondent group. Three in five (60%) rate this as ‘essential’. Cyclists highlight several key meanings to ‘feeling welcome’:

• Being shown respect by other road users or path users
• Seeing that service providers in an area are set up to meet the needs of cyclists
• Perceiving a friendly attitude towards cyclists among the local population

‘Accommodation with secure undercover bike storage’ is rated ‘essential’ by close to half (45%) of cyclists, and ‘cafés with places to secure a bike’ is rated ‘essential’ by 39%.