Cycling - Comparing the costs

Here are some of the factors you may need to consider when counting the costs of your choice to use a bicycle over a car.

Initial outlay

minimum third party liability is mandatory by law for motorists. However cyclists do not, at this time, need insurance
insurance against theft of a bike may be worthwhile
membership of some cycling organisations includes insurance cover

Vehicle Excise Duty is mandatory for most cars
Vehicle excise duty on motorised vehicles is linked to vehicle emissions - very low emission vehicles (including electric vehicles) have a nil rate of duty
Cycles, as the ultimate low emission vehicle, are not liable for VED

an MOT test is required on all cars over four years old
fuel costs is a major factor where cycling benefits over motoring
maintenance and parts is another instance where cycling benefits over motoring
parking charges for cars in most major town centres
in many areas cycle parking, if available, is not secure and open to the elements, but is free
Did you know? – travelling 10 miles by bike instead ofby carcould save youup to £1,700 each year

this cost may not be absolutely necessary for cyclists or motorists but many consider it beneficial. An example of this would be breakdown recovery for motorists
benefits from respective organisations are similar, although cycling groups include insurance
for motorists, groups such as RAC and the AA can cost from approximately £30 a year upwards, depending on level of benefit sought
for cyclists, groups such as CTC (Cyclists Touring Club) can cost approximately £30 per year (includes insurance)