British cycling has been one of the most successful Olympic and professional sports of the past two decades. Sir Bradley Wiggins became the first British rider to win the Tour de France in 2012; Sir Chris Froome won it four times (2013, 2015, 2016 and 2017); Geraint Thomas won in 2018. British riders have dominated the Olympic velodrome at successive Games since Beijing 2008.
Further reading: an editorial guide on this topic opens in a new window for additional context.
Outside the elite arena, cycling has grown rapidly as everyday transport in many UK cities, supported by the National Cycle Network, dedicated cycle lanes and bike-hire schemes such as London's "Boris Bikes" (officially the Santander Cycles).
You may be asked who was the first British man to win the Tour de France (Bradley Wiggins, in 2012).
Test yourself on this topic
These questions from the official-format question bank cover the same material. Tap any question to see the correct answer and a short explanation.
Keep going
- Read the full study notes for Modern Society.
- Try a practice test on this chapter.
- Sit a full 24-question timed mock.
- Browse the complete library of topic explainers.
Related topic explainers
Coronations and Major Royal Events
How a new monarch is crowned at Westminster Abbey and the jubilees that mark long reigns.
UK Bank Holidays
The eight UK bank holidays in England and Wales — and the regional differences.
How People Travel in the UK
Trains, buses, the Tube, the motorway network and the country's changing patterns of travel.
Health and Wellbeing in the UK
How to register with a GP, how prescriptions work and how to get help in an emergency.