Heatwave Sparks Surge in Shared Bike Use as Londoners Ditch Public Transport

London's soaring temperatures are changing the way people travel, with shared e-bike operators reporting a sharp rise in demand as commuters opt for cycling instead of crowded buses and Tube trains.

New figures released by micromobility providers show that periods of extreme heat are prompting thousands of Londoners to rethink how they move around the capital, with cycling emerging as one of the preferred alternatives.

Lime says journeys increased by 28% during days when temperatures climbed above 30°C, compared with the previous week, while research commissioned by the company found that more than half of Londoners had switched from their usual mode of transport to either cycling or walking during hot weather.

The findings also suggest nearly one in four people actively avoid public transport when temperatures soar, with many choosing bikes to escape overheated Underground carriages and congested roads.

Operators report record demand

The trend is being reflected across the wider shared mobility market.

Voi reported an 84% increase in journeys during the current heatwave compared with typical usage, alongside year-on-year growth of more than 550% in its London e-bike and e-scooter operations.

Forest also recorded one of its busiest weeks on record, with journey numbers rising by around a quarter compared with the previous week and demand reaching new highs as London experienced some of its hottest weather of the year.

The increase points to a broader shift in travel habits rather than a short-term spike, as more residents embrace cycling for everyday journeys.

Popular destinations driving extra journeys

Demand has been strongest around parks, sports venues and outdoor attractions.

Shared bike operators reported significant increases in trips ending near London's green spaces and leisure destinations, while major sporting events also generated substantial growth in cycling journeys.

The figures underline how warmer weather is encouraging people to combine active travel with outdoor recreation.

Heat exposes transport challenges

The growth in cycling comes as Transport for London manages the impact of extreme temperatures across its network.

High temperatures can force rail operators to introduce speed restrictions as steel tracks expand, while passengers continue to call for faster delivery of air-conditioned trains across more Underground lines.

Although TfL has expanded its air-conditioned fleet in recent years, large sections of the network still rely on older rolling stock without cooling systems.

Transport officials say contingency plans have been activated to minimise disruption during periods of extreme heat, with engineers closely monitoring infrastructure and advising passengers to travel outside peak temperatures where possible.

Cycling becomes part of London's transport mix

The latest figures reinforce the growing role of cycling within London's transport network.

Recent City of London data shows cycling levels have risen significantly over the past two years, with dockless hire bikes now accounting for almost one-third of all cycle journeys in the Square Mile.

As climate change continues to bring more frequent periods of hot weather, shared bike operators believe demand is likely to continue rising as commuters seek quicker, cooler and more flexible alternatives to traditional public transport.