Now, when you pedal through the streets of London, it won’t just be a number accompanying you — it could be the name of an inspiring woman! To celebrate International Women’s Day on 8 March, Transport for London (TfL) has launched a wonderful campaign: “Cycling Idol”.
Here’s everything you need to know about this meaningful project that gives you the chance to name one of London’s iconic rental bikes:
10 Bikes, 10 Inspiring Stories
TfL will honour 10 bikes from its fleet by naming them after women who have left their mark on the world of cycling — chosen from public nominations. The names will come from two main categories:
- Famous Stars: Olympic champions such as Victoria Pendleton or Dame Laura Kenny.
- Unsung Heroes: Everyday yet extraordinary women who have encouraged those around them to ride bikes, made a difference in their local community, or achieved the seemingly impossible on two wheels.
The Goal: Gender Equality in Cycling
This campaign is far more than a PR exercise; it forms part of TfL’s broader “Equity in Motion” vision for equality in transport.
What the Statistics Say
Although overall cycling in London has increased by 43% since 2019, the number of women cyclists still lags far behind men.
Breaking Down Barriers
Concerns about road safety and costs often keep women away from cycling. Through this naming project, TfL aims to increase the visibility of women in the cycling world and inspire more young girls to get on a bike.
How to Nominate
If there’s a woman you think deserves to have her name live on a bike (“This woman’s name should be on a bike!”), getting involved is very simple:
- Send an email to [email protected] with your nominee’s name and a short explanation of why you chose her.
Deadline: Nominations close on 8 February 2026.
Selection Process: Winners in the professional athlete category will be decided by public vote; unsung heroes will be chosen by a panel of judges. (So unfortunately “Bikey McCycleFace” jokes don’t stand much chance!)
London is truly becoming a cycling city. The number of weekday bike journeys has reached 1.5 million. TfL wants to accelerate this momentum even further by increasing women’s participation.
Who would be your “Cycling Idol”?
Perhaps that auntie in your neighbourhood who taught everyone how to ride, or maybe a brave friend who cycles to work every single day…
Get nominating — and help make the streets of London reflect the inspiring women who ride them!
