Cycling danger: Sheffield tops list as UK's most feared city

The survey, conducted by bike subscription service Swapfiets, found that a staggering 90% of Britons are too scared to cycle in UK cities, with Sheffield topping the list as the most intimidating location for cyclists.

According to the research, which polled 2,000 UK adults, 62% of respondents identified Sheffield as the most frightening city for cycling. The Steel City narrowly edged out Nottingham (59%) and Brighton (58%) to claim the dubious honor. Other major urban centers, including Bristol, Birmingham, and Manchester, also featured in the top 10 list of cities where cyclists feel most vulnerable.

The primary concerns driving this fear include the risk of being hit by a car, cited by 68% of respondents, and falling victim to road rage, mentioned by 54%. Other significant worries include bike theft, inability to stop, and getting lost in unfamiliar urban environments.

Interestingly, the study revealed a generational divide in cycling confidence. While nearly 90% of 35-44 year olds expressed terror at the prospect of city cycling, less than a quarter of under-24s shared the same level of apprehension. Gender also played a role, with women more than twice as likely as men to fear urban cycling.

Rory MacPhee, UK Country Manager at Swapfiets, described the findings as "a wake-up call" and called for increased government action. "With over 90% of the nation fearing urban cycling and projected failures to meet 2030 net zero targets, it's clear that current efforts are falling short," MacPhee stated. He urged the government to boost the active travel budget and improve cycling infrastructure and education.

The study comes at a time when many Britons express a desire for more car-free zones in their cities, with 55% supporting such initiatives. However, despite 44% of respondents wanting to cycle more, only 12% currently commute by bike, underscoring the gap between aspiration and reality in UK urban cycling.

As Sheffield and other UK cities grapple with this cycling confidence crisis, the study highlights the urgent need for improved infrastructure, education, and support to encourage more Britons to embrace two-wheeled transportation in urban areas.