The logic behind the biking boost is that after the last oil crisis in 1979 cycling increased by almost 40 per cent and the CTC expects thousands to ditch their cars for bikes. With some economists expecting oil to hit $200 a barrel they could be right.

CTC director Kevin Mayne said: “The amount commuters pay for fuel has a direct correlation with people deciding to take up cycling. Going by bike to work is a cheap, quick, healthy and an environmentally-friendly way to commute, and as people look to save money where they can, it’s the obvious choice.”

CTC has brought forward the launch of its Bike to Work package in anticipation. It costs £52 per year and includes breakdown assistance, insurance and other CTC benefits. For more information see www.ctc.org.uk/commuter.