More people are cycling in Toronto than ever before and more of those cyclists are using bikes for more than just recreation, according to a survey conducted by Ipsos Reid for the City of Toronto.

Although the central part of the city still has the highest number of cyclists riding for practical day- to-day (utilitarian) purposes, the survey showed the most significant increases in utilitarian riding were in other parts of the city including an increase from 11% to 25% in the North York community, 15% to 26% in the Etobicoke area and a 14% to 22% jump in Scarborough.

The survey, which was took place in 2009, found that more Toronto residents were cycling to school and work than 10 years ago.  A total of 16 per cent said they used their bike to commute to school and work, up from just 11 per cent in 1999. Cyclists also appear to be riding their bikes more often to work with 50% choosing to do so.

Investments in the cycling infrastructure over the past 10 years are being recognized and the survey reveals that 72 per cent of Torontonians perceive that the overall quality of cycling routes and facilities have improved compared to 1999.  However, both cyclists and non-cyclists agree that having more bike lanes on streets would have the greatest impact on improving cycling in the city.  In fact, 66 per cent of non-cyclists, 77 per cent of utilitarian cyclists and 68 per cent of recreational cyclists believe that separated bike lanes on city streets would greatly improve cycling in Toronto.

The survey also showed that secure bicycle parking at transit stations has potential to increase combined cycling and transit trips.  While one third of cyclists reported combining biking and public transportation at some point in time, 74 per cent of utilitarian and 66 per cent of recreational cyclists say they would combine cycling and public transit more often if secure bicycle parking was provided at subway stations.

As to why people are cycling, exercise and health was considered the most motivating factor with almost 40 per cent of cyclists choosing this reason.

To see the entire survey, click on toronto.ca/cycling.