New research finds small changes could boost cycling numbers

A new study has found simple measures could encourage more Irish people to cycle to work.

Rain, safety and inconvenience are all said to be key barriers to getting people up on their bikes.

The research which was carried out by UCD based Dr Marius Claudy is being released to mark the start of National Bike week.

Dr Claudy said simple policy changes could create a culture of cycling here:

"What seems to be working best is community-based schemes that try to create a culture of cycling," he said.

"For example we have a great programme in Ireland called the smarter travel workplace programme, that tries to work with employers to create proper changing facilities, bike storage facilities … which makes it a lot more convenient to cycle into work."

He said there are common misconceptions about being affected by rain, and safety concerns.

However, he said the facts are there is only a 4% chance of being caught in rain on a commute, and it is statistically safer to be a cyclist than a pedestrian.