Only 3 per-cent of the Irish population cycles daily
Only 3 per-cent of the Irish population cycles daily according to new research commissioned by insurer RedClick to mark National Bike Week. The research, carried out in April 2026 by IrelandThinks, found that men are four times more likely to cycle than women on a daily basis and twice as likely on a weekly basis. The results highlight persistent barriers to cycling in Ireland, particularly among women, with only one per cent of women cycling daily and five per cent on a weekly basis, whilst 90 per-cent of women rarely or never cycle.
The research also found that 85 per-cent of the total adult population rarely or never cycles, with only seven per-cent cycling weekly, and five per-cent on a monthly basis.
These low cycling rates may be explained by the persistent barriers that cyclists in Ireland face daily. The research revealed that safety remains a priority and is the primary deterrent for potential cyclists. Specifically, 57 per-cent of people avoid cycling due to safety concerns. This rises to 65 per-cent of women, which is reflected in low cycling rates among women.
The Irish weather is a well-documented barrier to cycling for many Irish commuters. This year, 50 per-cent of people cited poor weather conditions as a deterrent to cycling, up from 34 per-cent in 2025. This may be attributable to the record-breaking precipitation figures in the early months of 2026.
Interestingly, the number of respondents citing having a bike stolen in the past as a barrier has doubled, up to 10 per-cent from 5 per-cent in 2025.
While barriers clearly exist for most potential cyclists, 76 per-cent of respondents acknowledged that cycling infrastructure has improved in their local areas. This suggests that while Government investment in active travel infrastructure is being recognised, it has yet to overcome some of the barriers faced by cyclists across the country.
For those who cycle regularly, the benefits are clear. When asked to select all the benefits they associate with cycling, the positive impact on physical and mental wellbeing was most cited (36 per-cent), followed by the sustainability benefits (23 per-cent). Others recognised that it is fun and enjoyable, and that it is a cost-effective and time efficient way to travel.
Cycling is also recognised as a stress-free means of commuting, with 68 per-cent of people that cycle to work reporting that they arrive fresh, versus only four per cent of those that travel by public transport.
Only 10 per-cent of respondents reported that recent rising fuel costs have led them to cycle more, demonstrating that financial incentives alone are not enough to drive behavioural change.