If you've often thought about cycling in London, perhaps to work or just as a leisure pursuit, but felt intimidated by the busy roads or just didn't know how to get started, the city's new '
superhighways' could be just what you've been waiting for.
The idea behind the new free-to-use Barclays Cycle Superhighways is to give bike enthusiasts better, safer and faster access to central London.
Twelve routes will open over the next five years, with two currently in operation - from Merton to the City, and Barking to Tower Gateway. In 2011 routes for Wandsworth to Westminster, and Bow to Aldgate will also begin operating.
The superhighways are 1.5 metres wide and painted blue, so you can't miss them. Safety mirrors have also been put up at certain junctions to make bikers more visible to drivers, which should give you a little more peace of mind.
To get you out on your bike and acquainted with the routes, a number of
special events have been arranged for this summer. Guided rides will take place, though you need to register an interest by email beforehand, after which you'll be notified of your place on the ride. Trained marshals from the
London Cycling Campaign will give your bike a once over before showing you the way into central London. If you're a little nervous cycling the streets, such events will be ideal for building your confidence.
Also, the Transport for London website provides some useful
safety tips, definitely worth a look before you embark on your maiden bike ride.
Cycling is good for the wallet and a great way to get some exercise, as well as being kinder to the environment than gas guzzling cars.
You never know - you might even start to enjoy that commute to and from work, preferring the pedals to being pressed up against a tube train window in the stifling hot rush hour with some body-odour-ridden businessman breathing down your neck.
