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Boris reveals route for 100,000 Freewheel cyclists
Katharine Barney, Evening Standard13.08.08
Boris Johnson today announced the route of London's biggest free cycling event, which is expected to attract up to 100,000 people.
Key roads through the city will be closed to motorists, allowing participants in this year's London Freewheel event to cycle unhindered past landmarks including the Tower of London, London Eye and Buckingham Palace.
Mr Johnson said: "Cycling is a fantastic way to get around the city and, to show people just how enjoyable it can be, on 21 September cyclists of all ages and abilities can enjoy some of London's most famous sites by bike on a special car-free route.
"There are lots of Londoners who own bikes that aren't using them regularly, so hopefully this event will remind people what fun it can be."
It is estimated that 1.1 million Londoners have access to bikes but rarely ride them. London Freewheel is part of the Mayor's Summer of Cycling, which aims to encourage Londoners to experience the city on two wheels.
Last year's inaugural event saw more than 40,000 people take part. This year, "hubs" will be set up from 8am at Clapham Common, the Emirates Stadium, Ravenscourt Park and Victoria Park for participants to gather and prepare for the ride. Cyclists with less road experience can follow members of the London Cycling Campaign from the hubs to the main route, while marshals will be stationed at key junctions to point people in the right direction.
A shorter course for cyclists less able to complete the main 12km route will also be marked out.
Vintage bikes and mobile sound systems will be among attractions to keep riders entertained, while a Sky Sports zone in the Mall will provide a focal point for cycling enthusiasts.
Those wishing to attend are encouraged to register in advance and will receive regular email updates.
Reader views (9)
Here's a sample of the latest views published.
I agree completely with Ian Roughton.
- Eleonora, Gibraltar
We need to encourage cycling, it's the primary solution to London's transport problems.
A cyclist on the road is one less five by 10 foot car on the road, or one less body on the tube/bus.
Imagine if tomorrow all those that could cycle to work did so, congestion problem solved in one day on both the transport system and the roads.
- Dave, London, UK.
Register, where?
- Dug, Southport , England.
A nice idea but I'm bemused why the Standard seems to be implying this is a brand new new idea, thought up by the current mayor.
It's interesting to read the paper's reports of "Ken's plans" - i.e. - negative stories - why wasn't the previous mayor given some credit for the 2nd year of his bike initiative?! (I wonder). Still, good to see something a bit greener (and a tad less 4 x 4) for a change.
- Jj, Hammersmith
When are us pedestrians going to get a bicycle free route?
- Bj, London
Enough of this Ken stuff please (Kaz) The guy is old news,a lot of which was bad that's why he got kicked out, so get over it. Boris is the man now and he rides a bike unlike the ex mayor.
- Mr S.Port, London
When will motorists get a cycle free day?
- Ian Roughton, ilford essex
This is hardly a new idea. Ken did this last year when he stopped all vehicles in central London. Just another idea nicked from Ken and touted as your own eh Boris?
- Kaz, London UK
Boris says "Cycling is a fantastic way to get around the city" (change the record). I say "walking is pretty good too" and "there are lots of Londoner’s with legs" why not invest in 'walking improvements', better quality, cleaner and safer urban environments?
- Ade, London
