What's holding back cycling in London? Is it the lack of safe cycle lanes, the risk of having your bike stolen, or the politics of changing our roads?

Dr Will Norman, London's Walking and Cycling Commissioner, joins Imogen Cotter on On the Pedals for a conversation about what it's really like trying to make London a better place to cycle.

Will talks about the progress made since taking on the role in 2016, the resistance he's faced over new cycling infrastructure and why some parts of London are still missing vital connections.

He also shares the story of having his own Brompton stolen. It's an experience that brings the wider problem of bike theft into focus, particularly for people who rely on their bikes to get around. They discuss why so many thefts go unreported, what happens to stolen bikes and whether better parking, registration and police enforcement could make a difference.

There's plenty on road safety too, including the relationship between cyclists and drivers, 20mph limits, School Streets and London's Vision Zero ambitions.

And if Will could change one thing about London's cycling network, with no political or financial barriers, where would he start?

Topics covered:

- Bike theft in London and Will's stolen Brompton

- Secure cycle parking, BikeRegister and police enforcement

- London's cycle lanes and cycling infrastructure

- Political opposition to safer streets

- Road safety, School Streets and Vision Zero

- What needs to happen next for cycling in London

About Will Norman: London's first Walking and Cycling Commissioner, appointed in 2016.

About Imogen Cotter: Former professional cyclist and Irish national road race champion.

On the Pedals is a Stolen Ride podcast featuring conversations about cycling, bike security, road safety and the people working to improve life on two wheels.