Cycling Boom puts focus on keeping riders safe

Cycling Boom puts focus on keeping riders safe

Focus on keeping riders safe

Posted on 05.06.2020

An explosion in bicycle sales during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has renewed the focus on keeping cyclists safe.

With coronavirus-enforced restrictions limiting the way Queenslanders could exercise, bike riding became a popular option with retail outlets reporting huge demand since March.

Team Leader at 99 Bikes Chermside Shane Johnston said bike stores had reported up to triple the business during the pandemic compared with the same months in previous years.

He said sales at his northern Brisbane store were up more than 150% compared with December last year, which is typically the biggest month, and sales in April were the highest recorded for a single month in eight years of trading.

“With other avenues for physical activity and exercise closed – such as gyms, team sports and other fitness facilities – many are turning to bikes as a way to get outside and stay fit and healthy,” Mr Johnston said.

“We have seen an incredible increase in sales since the COVID-19 pandemic began, the majority of which has been new bike sales but also people looking to get their current bikes serviced and repaired in our workshop.

“We are still seeing a huge increase in demand and whilst it appears to have plateaued, bike sales are still at an extraordinarily high level.”

Between 1 January and 19 May this year, there has been an almost 30% increase in usage on Brisbane City Council’s pathway and bikeway network compared with the same period last year and visits to Cycling Brisbane’s online map increased by 32% in April.

Mr Johnston said the increase in numbers put a spotlight on the need to keep cyclists safe.

“It is very important to look ahead to the future and ensure we can provide a safe and encouraging environment for people to enjoy riding, whether that be for the simple pleasure of riding with family and friends, or as a means of transport or commuting,” Mr Johnston said.

Source
RACQ Living

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