Imagine the future of getting around in big cities. Do you see streets filled with electric cars, maybe even some that drive themselves?

Right now, electric cars are getting a lot of attention. But there’s a twist. Experts think that in cities, electric bikes (e-bikes) might be the real stars, not cars.

Here are 6 reasons why e-bikes – and not electric cars – are the future of urban transport:

1. Inefficiency of Space

Cars, whether they are moving or not, need a lot of space. In cities, space is very limited. This makes cars an inefficient choice for city living – especially when you consider cars are parked at least 85% of the time.

In a busy city, finding a parking spot can be hard. Streets are full, and parking lots take up room that could be used for parks or houses. Studies have also found that parking spots may actually cause congestion. Traffic jams make getting around slow. Even with electric cars, these problems stay the same. That’s before we even have to consider trying to find a space with a suitable charger.

This isn’t a problem for e-bikes. They are a fraction of the size and can move through traffic more easily. You can park several e-bikes in the space one car would take. This makes e-bikes a smarter choice for getting around in cities. They help keep the streets less crowded and make better use of limited space.

2. Money, Money, Money

While people may raise an eyebrow when hearing electric bikes cost about $2,000 on average, wait until you tell them how much an electric car will cost them. And that’s just the upfront cost.

It costs way less than a dollar to charge up an electric bike, meaning you can travel around for less than 1 cent per mile. Charging an electric car to full, meanwhile, ranges from $10 up to about $50. It might work out cheaper than gas, but not by the margins you can save with an e-bike.

Oh, and then there’s car servicing, insurance, repairs, parking fees… it’s no competition.

3. Environmental Impact

E-bikes are much kinder to our planet than cars, even electric ones. When we look at how they affect the environment, e-bikes come out ahead in many ways.

First, making an e-bike uses fewer resources and causes less pollution than making a car. Cars are big and need a lot of materials like metal and plastic. E-bikes are smaller and simpler, so they don’t need as much stuff to make them. This means less harm to the environment right from the start.

Then, there’s the energy e-bikes use. They run on electricity, which can come from clean sources like the sun or wind. Since e-bikes are light and efficient, they don’t need a lot of power to go far. Electric cars also use clean energy but are heavier and need more power to move. This means they can have a bigger impact on the environment, even if it’s less than gas cars.

National Geographic reports, “E-bikes are a powerful tool on the road to sustainability. When it replaces trips made by a car, an individual e-bike can reduce CO2 emissions by 225 kilograms each year. That’s equivalent to the emissions produced by one passenger flying economy from Philadelphia to Chicago.”

4. The Cities They Are a-Changin’

Cities are changing to support e-bikes better. This shift is good news for people who choose e-bikes as their way to get around. More bike lanes, parking spots for bikes, and programs to share bikes are popping up in cities all over the world.

Bike lanes are a big deal. They give e-bike riders a safe place to ride, away from cars and trucks. This makes riding an e-bike in the city safer and more enjoyable. Many cities are adding new bike lanes and making the ones they have better.

Parking for e-bikes is also improving. Cities are adding spots where you can lock up your e-bike safely. This means you don’t have to worry as much about someone stealing your bike when you’re not using it.

Bike-sharing programs are growing, too. These programs let people use an e-bike for a short time, like for a quick trip across town. You pick up a bike from a station, ride it to where you’re going, and leave it at another station. This is a great way to try out an e-bike and see how it fits into your life.

5. Health and Social Benefits

One ironically lazy argument leveled about e-bikes is that they’re “lazy”. Ironically, this normally comes from people who spend most of their time sitting in a metal box called a car.

While e-bikes burn fewer calories than traditional bicycles per mile, studies have found that people with electric bikes cover, on average, 4x more distance than people with normal bicycles.

So, although you’ll exert less per journey, the long-term health impacts of riding your bike more often are huge, especially when it comes to managing weight, reducing the risk of heart disease and diabetes, and perks for your mental health.

E-bikes offer significant health and social benefits, making them an excellent choice for urban transportation. Riding an e-bike is not only a way to get from point A to point B; it’s also an effective form of exercise that can improve your physical health and well-being.

6. Accessibility and Ease of Use

E-bikes stand out in urban transportation for their accessibility and ease of use, making them an appealing choice for a wide range of people. 

Unlike traditional bikes, e-bikes come with an electric motor that assists the rider, making it easier to cover longer distances, climb hills, and arrive at destinations without excessive fatigue. 

This feature opens up cycling to those who might have found it too challenging before, such as older adults or individuals with physical limitations.

The design of e-bikes also plays a significant role in their accessibility. Many models offer step-through frames, adjustable settings, and comfortable seating, which cater to users of all ages and abilities. The intuitive controls and display systems on e-bikes allow riders to easily manage their speed and battery level, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.

This all means that more people than ever can get in the saddle than ever, improve the liveability of our cities, feel better while they do so and even save a tonne of money at the same time!

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The post 6 Reasons E-Bikes (NOT Electric Cars) Are The Future appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

Did you know that some companies are helping employees to cycle to work? 

Across the globe, companies are going above and beyond to get people out of their cars and onto two wheels. 

In this article, we’ll look at why companies should do more to promote cycling, as well as our pick of the top 7 that are exceeding expectations when it comes to encouraging it.

Why should Companies Push Employees to Cycle to Work?

But why should companies push employees to cycle to work? There are probably more benefits than you expect. 

First off, chances are that it’ll make them more money. According to SoCalCycling, those who commute by bike are more productive at work than their driving colleagues. This is partly thanks to the dopamine the morning exercise releases, resulting in happier, more focused workers.

It also means that they’re likely to take fewer sick days. Employees who cycle to work take 1.3 fewer sick days per year, according to CyclingUk.

Encouraging employees to cycle also has clear health benefits, and they aren’t just physical. Cycling can greatly impact, helping to reduce anxiety and stress both in and out of the office.

But which companies are doing their part in getting people onto bikes? Here are our top seven.

1. CLIF Bar & Company

If you live and breathe cycling, the next best thing after being a professional is to work at CLIF Bar & Company.

According to the Nutritious Energy food company, happy people make the best food, so it makes sense that they make such an effort to get employees to cycle! In fact, the idea of the CLIF bar came to founder Gary Erickson while on a ride with a friend in 1990 in Northern California.

According to Bicycling.com, CLIF Bar & Company offers up to $765 a year in rewards for employees who commute by bike and an additional $500 every six years to buy a new one.

If that wasn’t enough, employees are even allowed more than two hours a week to exercise on the company’s time. We know how we’d spend our time.

They even have a Bike to Work month, where the company donates to bike-related charities on behalf of the teams with the highest mileage.

2. Great Ormond Street Hospital

In 2021, Great Ormond Street became the first UK hospital to be awarded gold by Cycling UK’s friendly employer scheme. 

GOSH recognized that cycling improved not only the staff’s health but also cut the time spent traveling to and from work.

Mark Hayden, a pediatric cardiac intensivist at the hospital, makes an excellent point, noting that: 

“We are not caring for children if we do not protect the environment and try to minimize the detrimental impacts that climate change will have on children’s health around the world.”

Cycling to work doesn’t just benefit the employees, but the patients too. As more workers ditch their cars, air quality is likely to improve in the surrounding area, helping to provide a healthier environment for the children.

The hospital has increased the number of bicycle parking spaces available to 300 and provided free bicycle maintenance to its nearly 5,000-strong team. According to BikeBiz, the hospital has also been in talks with Transport for London (TfL) and Camden Council to seek better and safer cycling routes for employees and visitors alike.

3. HSBC

Did you know that one of the world’s biggest banks has been getting people to cycle to work?

In 2019, HSBC UK partnered with British Cycling on the Cycle Nation project, a project designed to learn more about getting people onto bikes.

The partnership included trials in offices across the UK for employees and some research and analysis. And that’s not all. When it comes to discouraging cars, they’re serious about it. The bank has reduced employee parking spaces by up to 90% in at least two locations to encourage cycling. 

While the scheme was mainly designed to encourage employees to cycle, the results of the trials have also been shared with the government and other employers so that they can also promote the use of bikes.

4. Tesco

The supermarket giant is another employer that’s going above and beyond when it comes to bikes.

As far back as 2013, Tesco introduced their bike-for-work scheme for their team of over a quarter of a million. The scheme was designed to reduce the financial barriers to purchasing a bike to get more of its employees to avoid the car when commuting.

Employees can purchase bikes at a lower cost due to tax savings and pay for them in installments at no additional rate via a ‘salary sacrifice.’

As one of the UK’s biggest employers, it’s great to see them promote cycling as an affordable and convenient means of transport to set an example across the country.

Jump forward to 2024, and the scheme has reportedly been extended to include e-bikes, making cycling to work easier and more accessible. 

5. Cardiff Metropolitan University

After being awarded Wales’ most cycle-friendly business, Cardiff Met is doing a great job of getting people to cycle to work.

The university has introduced all-weather cycle storage passes for students and staff and dedicated showers and lockers for bike commuters.

Not only that, but they’ve introduced bike doctor sessions to help students get back on the road as quickly as possible if any problems arise. And they’re not just helping themselves. 

Recognizing the importance of community involvement, they’ve also donated unwanted bicycles to a local charity for refurbishment and recycling. As of 2021, some students have also been actively working in partnership with Welsh Cycling in looking for ways to increase participation across the whole country.

6. New Belgium Brewing

Few things go together, like bikes and craft beer. It’s an explicable match made in heaven.

New Belgium Brewing has a long history with bikes. The company was born after the founder, Jeff Lebesch, cycled through Belgium, sampling a few beers on the way, no doubt! 

To this day, employees are gifted one of their iconic cruisers after a year of employment. 

Staff at the Fort Collins headquarters are known for hitting the cyclocross together on their lunch break, and they’re also welcome to attend on-site bicycle ‘fix-it’ stations. 

But it doesn’t just benefit their employees. Since its founding in the 1990s, the company has also donated over 9 million dollars to bike non-profits nationwide!  

7. Essen Police Department

Do you wish there was a way that you could combine your love of cycling with your passion for law enforcement? There might be an answer for you.

The Essen Police Department in Germany was recently voted as the most cycle-friendly police force in the country! 

The station is equipped with bike racks, parking spaces for cargo bikes, a clothes drying station, charging stations for e-bikes, and even a small bicycle repair shop!

The hope is that these facilities will encourage the officers to cycle to and during work and promote a culture of cycling across the town. 

Companies and institutions that encourage people to cycle to work don’t just benefit economically but can massively improve the environments in which they operate.

We know that bikes have amazing transformative capabilities for communities, both local and global, and it’s the responsibility of businesses to make this known, however small the step might seem.

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A new study published on ScienceDirect looked at “The effect of safety attire on perceptions of cyclist dehumanization.”

Recent research from Australia has found that many people consider cyclists to be less than fully human.

To investigate this further, Mark Limb, from the Queensland University of Technology, and Sarah Collyer, from Flinders University in Australia, set out to determine whether cyclists were treated differently by other road users due to what they wear.

Safety Gear and the Dehumanization of Cyclists

The study found that “people wearing bicycle helmets are perceived as less human compared to people without helmets.” The hypothesis was that this was due to safety gear covering up the hair and eyes of cyclists. This was, however, not the case.

Cyclists wearing baseball caps covering the same features were seen as “more human” than those wearing helmets. The study furthermore found that cyclists without helmets who wore high-visibility vests were seen as even less human.

“This finding, and the overall trend of attributing less humanness to cyclists wearing safety attire, indicate the likelihood that safety attire itself may contribute to dehumanization, rather than the obscuring of hair and facial features,” the researchers concluded.

Gender and the Dehumanization of Cyclists

For the study, the researchers used both a male and female model photographed with and without safety gear. Interestingly, the gender of respondents themselves had a more significant impact on the results than the gender of the models used.

According to the researchers, men were less likely to note differences between the models, while women preferred the female model more strongly. While the general order of preference from non-helmet (most human) through to safety-vest (least human) was consistent between both men and women, men found the difference between the helmeted models and the vested models to be much greater compared to the women respondents”.

Adding, “One possible explanation for this may relate to the differing levels of risk aversion commonly observed between men and women, whereby men’s high-risk tolerance may result in them perceiving those taking more “extreme” safety mitigations, to be less human than those who do not.”

The study supports the notion that cycling attire influences road users’ perception of cyclists. The less safety gear cyclists wore, the more they were humanized.

With dehumanization comes aggressive and hostile behavior. The study highlights that there is “a potential conflict” around the idea that safety gear (like helmets and high-visibility vests) increases motorists’ awareness and caution of cyclists. Instead, it may “inadvertently increase levels of hostility and aggression toward this group of vulnerable road users.”

This research contributes valuable insight into ongoing investigations looking into safety and cycling.

It is important to note that cyclists are extremely vulnerable road users, and protection gear is crucial for their safety. In some countries, wearing safety gear is mandatory by law.

Safety of Cyclists Need to be Prioritized

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “every year 41,000 cyclists die in road traffic-related crashes worldwide,” while millions more are injured in road traffic-related crashes while cycling.

As the world moves to sustainable transport, the safety of cyclists must be prioritized. The WHO highlights that the safety risk connected to cycling is one of the main barriers to using bicycles as a mode of transport.

“Bicycle helmets reduce the odds of head injury by 50%, and the odds of head, face, or neck injury by 33%,” the WHO reports, adding, “it is also important to note that while there are studies showing the benefits of cyclists wearing a helmet, there are also studies suggesting that helmets could be linked to a decline in cycling”.

The WHO calls for a comprehensive approach to bicycle safety, including changes in speed limits, driver behavior, strict liability laws, and a new engineering approach to total safety at junctions and roundabouts and well-funded networks of safe, segregated cyclist paths.

The post Cyclists Wearing Safety Gear Perceived as ‘Less Human,’ New Study Finds appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

We’ve all heard our fair share of “truths” about cyclists. But even the bicycle has enjoyed its share of fake news over the years.

Below, we’ll look at 13 of the most common bicycle myths that many people actually believe to be truth.

Even if you’re a passionate bike fan, a few of these may catch you by surprise.

1. Myth: Leonardo da Vinci Invented the Bicycle

This myth likely originated from a sketch in 1974, believed to be a Da Vinci creation depicting a chain-driven bicycle. 

However, it was later proven that the sketch was a hoax, added to Da Vinci’s genuine Codex Atlanticus during a restoration in the 1960s. 

Despite this, Da Vinci’s innovative thinking and designs for various machines have led some to speculate how he might have influenced the bicycle’s invention.

2. Myth: Bicycles Were Originally Called “Penny-Farthing”

The Penny-Farthing is a specific bicycle model with a large front wheel and a small rear wheel, resembling the British penny and farthing coins when placed next to each other. It became popular in the 1870s and 1880s. 

However, it was not the first type of bicycle, and the name “Penny-Farthing” is not synonymous with all early bicycles.

3. Myth: Bicycles Have Always Had Two Wheels

While the most common image of a bicycle is a two-wheeled vehicle, there have been numerous variations throughout history, including tricycles (three wheels) and quadricycles (four wheels). 

Some early designs even experimented with different numbers and configurations of wheels.

4. Myth: Bicycles Were Always Pedal-Powered

The earliest bicycles, known as “hobby horses” or “running machines,” invented in the early 19th century, were propelled by riders pushing off the ground with their feet. Pedals and chains, which significantly improved the efficiency of bicycles, were not introduced until later.

5. Myth: The First Bicycle Was the Bone-Shaker

The “Bone-Shaker,” introduced in the 1860s, is often mistakenly considered the first bicycle. While it was one of the early pedal-powered bicycles, previous versions existed, including the wooden “hobby horse.”

6. Myth: Bicycles Were Originally a Children’s Toy

Bicycles were initially developed for adults as a form of transportation. The association with children’s toys didn’t become prevalent until the 20th century, although children had been riding smaller-sized bicycles before this shift in perception.

7. Myth: Women Were Discouraged from Riding Bicycles

In the 19th century, social norms and impractical clothing did make bicycling challenging for women, as well as bizarre media stories about “bicycle face”. 

However, bicycles played a crucial role in the women’s liberation movement, providing freedom of movement and contributing to changes in women’s fashion, such as the adoption of bloomers.

8. Myth: Bicycles Are Dangerous

Cycling does involve some risk, especially in areas without proper infrastructure. However, numerous studies have shown that the physical and mental health benefits of regular cycling significantly outweigh the risks involved.

Indeed, there is evidence that is even safer than gardening. Seriously.

9. Myth: Bicycles are Bad for Male Fertility

There has been a longstanding myth that cycling can negatively affect male fertility, primarily due to saddle pressure. While there is some evidence that prolonged periods of cycling can lead to numbness or temporary erectile dysfunction, the overall impact on fertility is minimal. Proper saddle fitting and taking regular breaks can mitigate these issues.

10. Myth: The Dutch Have Always Been Cycling Enthusiasts 

While the Netherlands is famous for its cycling culture today, this was not always the case. The shift towards bicycle-friendly policies and infrastructure mainly occurred in the 1970s in response to concerns about traffic safety and the oil crisis.

11. Myth: Bicycles Are Expensive

Some people perceive cycling as an expensive hobby, particularly with the availability of high-end bikes and gear. However, cycling can be quite affordable, especially when compared to the costs of owning and maintaining a car. 

Many budget-friendly bikes are also available, and cycling can save money in the long run through reduced transportation and health costs.

12. Myth: Bicycles Contribute to Road Congestion

There’s a common misconception that bicycles contribute to road congestion and traffic. In reality, bicycles take up far less space than cars, and increasing bicycle infrastructure has been shown to reduce traffic congestion and improve traffic flow. 

Encouraging cycling can actually be a solution to road congestion issues in urban areas.

13. Myth: Electric Bicycles Are a Recent Invention

While e-bikes have gained significant popularity in the 21st century, the concept has been around since the late 19th century. 

The first electric bike patent was awarded to Ogden Bolton Jr. in 1895.

The post 13 Bicycle Myths That People ACTUALLY Believe appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

In his book, Why The Silhouette?, Avijeet Das writes, “A person’s mind is way more attractive than the person’s body. Intellectual people are sexy!”

We couldn’t agree more, so we’ve collected some of the most fascinating bicycle stats from around the world to make you look hot AF.

Now, you can woo potential lovers with 69 of the most titillating facts about bicycles that will leave them wanting more.

So hop on and enjoy the ride…

Bicycle Facts and Stats

A survey of 600 men and women commissioned by the British Heart Foundation found that respondents believed cyclists to be 13 percent more intelligent and cooler, and 10 percent more charitable, than other people.

1. Smarter, Cooler and More Giving

A survey of 600 men and women found that respondents believed cyclists to be 13 percent more intelligent and cooler, and 10 percent more charitable, than other people.

(Source: British Heart Foundation)

2. Environmental Impact:

Cycling 10 km each way to work would save 1500 kg of greenhouse gas emissions each year.

(Source: European Cyclists’ Federation)

3. Efficiency:

Bicycles are about three times as efficient as walking in terms of the energy a person must expend to travel a given distance.

(Source: Transportation Alternatives)

4. Health Benefits:

Regular cycling can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and stroke.

(Source: British Medical Association)

5. Space Saving:

Eight bikes can be parked in the space required for one car.

(Source: City of Portland, Oregon)

6. Speed in Cities:

In congested urban areas, bikes are often faster than cars for trips of up to 10 km.

(Source: TomTom Traffic Index)

7. Bicycle Production:

Over 100 million bicycles are produced worldwide yearly.

(Source: Worldwatch Institute)

8. Life Span:

A well-maintained bike can last for around 30 years.

(Source: General observation and expert opinion)

9. Reduction in Air Pollution:

If just 1 out of 10 commuters switched to cycling, it could reduce CO2 emissions by 25 million tons annually.

(Source: Environmental Defense Fund)

10. Fuel Efficiency:

On average, a cyclist can travel 3 km on the caloric energy of one banana, making bicycles incredibly fuel-efficient.

(Source: General knowledge and nutritional information)

ALSO READ: 92 Famous Bicycle Quotes: The Best Bike Ride Captions Ever

11. Worldwide Popularity:

It is estimated that there are approximately two billion bikes in use around the world.

(Source: World Economic Forum)

12. Improvement in Traffic Congestion:

Increasing bicycle usage has been shown to reduce traffic congestion.

(Source: Various city transportation studies)

13. Safety:

Cycling is generally safer than driving, with a lower risk of serious injury per mile traveled.

(Source: UK Department for Transport)

14. Accessibility:

Bicycles offer an affordable and accessible form of transportation, especially in developing countries.

(Source: World Health Organization)

15. Job Creation:

The bicycle industry creates jobs in manufacturing, sales, and maintenance.

(Source: Various economic reports on the bicycle industry)

16. Reduction in Road Maintenance Costs:

Bicycles cause less wear and tear on road surfaces compared to cars.

(Source: General observation and expert opinion)

17. Positive Impact on Mental Health:

Regular cycling has been linked to reduced levels of stress and improved mood.

(Source: Mental Health Foundation)

18. Cycling Infrastructure:

Investment in cycling infrastructure pays off – every $1 invested in bike lanes returns up to $24 in health, environmental, and transportation benefits.

(Source: City of Copenhagen)

19. Bicycle Commuting:

The number of people commuting by bicycle in the United States increased by 60% over the last decade.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau)

20. Rapid Growth in Bike-Sharing:

As of 2021, there are over 1600 bike-sharing programs worldwide, offering more than 18 million bikes for public use.

(Source: Bike-sharing World Map)

ALSO READ: Weekend Bike Ride Quotes: 30 Inspirational Cycling Captions

21. Energy Efficiency:

Bicycles are one of the most energy-efficient forms of transportation; a cyclist burns about 35 calories per mile, whereas a car burns about 1,860 calories for the same distance.

(Source: U.S. Department of Transportation)

22. Cost Savings:

On average, it costs 20 times less to maintain a bicycle than a car.

(Source: League of American Bicyclists)

23. Life Expectancy:

Regular cyclists tend to live on average two years longer than non-cyclists.

(Source: Tour de France Study)

24. Bicycle Commutes in the Netherlands:

In the Netherlands, 27% of all trips are made by bicycle.

(Source: Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management)

25. Urban Mobility in Copenhagen:

In Copenhagen, more people commute by bicycle than by car.

(Source: City of Copenhagen)

26. Carbon Footprint:

A 4-mile bicycle trip keeps about 15 pounds of pollutants out of the air.

(Source: Environmental Protection Agency)

27. Traffic Reduction:

Doubling the number of cyclists on the road could decrease the rate of car-bike collisions by a third.

(Source: Jacobsen, P.L. (2003). Safety in numbers: more walkers and bicyclists, safer walking and bicycling. Injury Prevention)

28. Healthcare Savings:

A 20% increase in urban cyclists could result in healthcare cost savings in the billions annually.

(Source: Gotschi, Thomas. “Costs and benefits of bicycling investments in Portland, Oregon.” Journal of Physical Activity and Health 7.s3 (2010): S49-S58.)

29. Parking Efficiency:

A single car parking space can accommodate up to 12 bicycles.

(Source: City of Cambridge, UK)

30. Global Bike Sharing:

As of 2021, there are bike-sharing programs in over 1,000 cities around the world.

(Source: Bike-sharing World Map)

ALSO READ: 20 Evening Bike Ride Quotes to Inspire Night Riders

31. Economic Impact in Europe:

The cycling industry contributes over $133 billion to the European economy annually.

(Source: European Cyclists’ Federation)

32. Reduction in Traffic Deaths:

Cities with high rates of cycling have lower rates of traffic fatalities.

(Source: Pucher, John, and Buehler, Ralph. “Making cycling irresistible: lessons from The Netherlands, Denmark and Germany.” Transport reviews 28.4 (2008): 495-528.)

33. Rise of E-Bikes:

Sales of electric bicycles have surpassed sales of electric cars in Europe.

(Source: Confederation of the European Bicycle Industry)

34. Reduction in Congestion:

A 10% modal shift to cycling could reduce traffic congestion by 40% in Brussels.

(Source: Brussels Mobility Study)

35. Bicycle Tourism in the U.S.:

Bicycle tourism contributes approximately $83 billion annually to the U.S. economy.

(Source: Outdoor Industry Association)

36. Air Quality Improvement:

Cycling reduces the production of air pollutants including NOx, CO, and particulate matter.

(Source: European Environment Agency)

37. Increase in Productivity:

Employees who cycle to work take fewer sick days and are more productive.

(Source: CTC, the UK’s national cyclists’ organization)

38. Modal Share in Amsterdam:

In Amsterdam, 38% of all trips are made by bicycle.

(Source: City of Amsterdam)

39. Impact on Retail:

People who arrive at a retail store by bike visit more often and spend more money over time.

(Source: Transport for London)

40. Reduction in Car Use:

In the U.S., 40% of all trips are less than two miles, a distance easily covered by bicycle.

(Source: U.S. Department of Transportation)

ALSO READ: Bike Names: 103 Cool + Funny Bicycle Nicknames Revealed

41. Global Bicycle Market:

The global bicycle market size was valued at over $20 billion in 2019 and is expected to grow in the coming years.

(Source: Statista)

42. Bike Lanes and Property Value:

Properties located near bike paths or lanes have been shown to increase in value.

(Source: “The Impact of Bicycling Facilities on Residential Property Values” – University of Delaware)

43. Rapid Increase in Cycling During COVID-19:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many cities around the world reported a surge in cycling, with some cities seeing an increase of over 200% in bicycle usage.

(Source: Eco Counter)

44. Cycling Reduces Stress:

A study found that people who commute by bike experience lower levels of stress compared to those commuting by car.

(Source: Concordia University)

45. Bicycle Tourism Growth:

The global bicycle tourism market is expected to grow significantly, with increasing interest in sustainable and active travel.

(Source: Adventure Travel Trade Association)

46. Impact on Local Economies:

Money spent at local businesses by cyclists contributes significantly to local economies.

(Source: League of American Bicyclists)

47. Cycling for Transport Worldwide:

Over 100 countries have developed national policies to promote cycling as a mode of transport.

(Source: United Nations)

48. Bike-Friendly Cities:

The number of bike-friendly cities worldwide is increasing, with cities investing in infrastructure and policies to promote cycling.

(Source: Copenhagenize Index)

49. Cycling Reduces the Risk of Cancer:

Regular cycling has been linked to a lower risk of developing cancer.

(Source: British Medical Journal)

50. Increase in Bicycle Commuting in the U.S.:

Between 2000 and 2017, the number of bicycle commuters in the U.S. increased by 51%.

(Source: U.S. Census Bureau)

ALSO READ: Bicycle Synonyms: 52 Other Names for Bike

51. Bicycles for Transportation in Africa:

In many African countries, bicycles are a crucial mode of transport, especially in rural areas where access to public transportation is limited.

(Source: World Bicycle Relief)

52. Bicycle Manufacturing:

The global bicycle manufacturing industry is valued at over $45 billion.

(Source: IBISWorld)

53. Cycling and Public Health:

Investing in cycling infrastructure has been proven to have a positive impact on public health and can lead to savings in healthcare costs.

(Source: World Health Organization)

54. Bike Sharing and Urban Mobility:

Bike-sharing programs have become an integral part of urban mobility, providing an eco-friendly transportation option.

(Source: National Association of City Transportation Officials)

55. Cycling and Air Quality:

Cities with higher rates of cycling tend to have better air quality.

(Source: European Environment Agency)

56. Economic Benefits of Cycling:

Investing in cycling infrastructure can lead to economic benefits, including job creation and increased retail sales.

(Source: League of American Bicyclists)

57. Cycling for Short Trips:

If trips of 5 km or less were made by bicycle instead of car, it could lead to significant reductions in CO2 emissions.

(Source: European Cyclists’ Federation)

58. Bicycle Infrastructure and Safety:

Cities with better bicycle infrastructure tend to have lower rates of cyclist injuries and fatalities.

(Source: “Safer Cycling Through Improved Infrastructure” – American Journal of Public Health)

59. Bicycles in Asia:

In many Asian countries, bicycles play a significant role in transportation, particularly in China and India, which have the highest numbers of cyclists in the world.

(Source: World Health Organization)

60. Savings on Fuel:

Regular cyclists can save a significant amount on fuel costs each year.

(Source: League of American Bicyclists)

ALSO READ: What is a Bicycle Mayor (and How Do You Become One)?

61. Growth of Cargo Bikes:

The global market for cargo bikes, used for transporting goods and sometimes children, is expected to grow significantly, with increased urbanization and the need for sustainable transport solutions.

(Source: Transparency Market Research)

62. Cycling in Germany:

In Germany, around 10% of all trips are made by bicycle.

(Source: Federal Statistical Office of Germany)

63. Bike Paths and Health:

Communities with more bike paths tend to have lower rates of obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

(Source: American Journal of Public Health)

64. Economic Impact of Bicycle Tourism in Europe:

Bicycle tourism in Europe generates an estimated €44 billion in economic activity annually.

(Source: European Cyclists’ Federation)

65. Bicycle Commuting and Mental Health:

People who commute by bicycle report higher levels of well-being and lower levels of stress compared to those who commute by car.

(Source: “Cycling and Urban Air Quality: A Study of European Experiences” – Transport and Environment)

66. Reduction in Road Maintenance Costs:

Increased cycling can lead to a reduction in road maintenance costs, as bicycles cause less wear and tear on roads compared to cars.

(Source: Transport for Quality of Life)

67. Youth Cycling:

In the Netherlands, 49% of children cycle to school.

(Source: Netherlands Institute for Transport Policy Analysis)

68. Cycling in Japan:

In Japan, cycling accounts for 15% of all trips.

(Source: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan)

69. Bicycles and Accessibility:

Bicycles can play a crucial role in improving accessibility, particularly in developing countries where access to transportation can be limited.

(Source: World Bank)

The post 69 Naughty Facts About Bicycles appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

Please note: This article discusses mental health and self-harm.

It’s well documented that moving your body is essential to health and wellness. Cycling is one of the best forms of exercise (we are, of course, entirely biased).

Noticeably, more women have been turning to two wheels to get out and about as a mode of transport or for leisure reasons.

We therefore, decided to look into the benefits women can expect from cycling.

1. Cycling is easy on the joints

Cycling is a great sport when it comes to impact. This is because it’s a low impact sport.

According to an article from Everyday Health that focused on Joint Pain and Women, “women are more apt than men to have conditions that cause joint pain,” adding, “Women are more prone to osteoarthritis of the knee.” Raising the concern that women are likely better suited to low-impact sports such as cycling.

Unlike running, your joint won’t be constantly bashing against the ground with every movement. Instead the action of pedalling is much kinder to your joints.

With this being said, if you have issues with your joints, such as aches and pains or even more severe injuries, cycling is a good choice.

2. Cycling can be beneficial during and after the menopause

For many women, menopause can be debilitating and is often an overlooked part of women’s medicine and healthcare.

But according to Dr Samantha Wild, “While everyone needs to do cardiovascular exercise, women are at particular risk of heart disease after menopause.” Following on to state that cycling is a brilliant example of the cardiovascular exercise women can do to help prevent such health issues.

Dr. Samantha Wild also stated: “Cardiovascular exercise can also increase your energy levels, boost your mood, and enhance your sleep quality,” all of which are issues women during and post-menopause may experience.

However, if you are really struggling with symptoms due to the menopause, seeking medical support is also very much recommended. Exercise can help but likely won’t be the sole remedy. But can be a great way to help ease symptoms naturally.

3. Cycling improves overall fitness

Now it won’t come as a huge surprise that riding a bike regularly will help improve the overall fitness of a person, regardless of their gender or who they identify as. But given how important this factor is, it just has to be added.

Riding a bike regularly will help women feel fitter in general by improving the strength of the cardiovascular system. This of course will take time so isn’t a quick fix. But over time, the improved fitness is definitely noticeable.

This is great for allowing you to ride with greater ease and further as your endurance improves. But also in everyday life, which will help with work and general life: you will notice you become fatigued less quickly and see other indicators like a lower resting heart rate.

Therefore, not only will your cycling ability improve physically but your ability to carry out daily activities, what’s not to love?

4. Cycling helps to maintain a healthy body weight

Something that can be a complicated and sensitive topic for many women is body weight. First, I want to state that everyone comes in all shapes and sizes, and some of us carry more body fat than others.

Not only that, but after injuries, illness, or due to medication, body fat can accumulate but become difficult to budge.

But cycling for women can be a really fantastic option for those wanting to find an activity to help maintain a healthy body weight. Cycling is a fun and varied sport, unlike other sports that aren’t very exciting nor can get you from A-B.

Instead of just sitting on the rowing machine in a gym, jumping on your bike allows you to see sights and ride to places you need to be, such as work or to the shops, while still helping you to maintain a healthy body weight.

Therefore, as calories in versus calories out (used) can be improved by exercising, in theory, you can eat more and keep the same healthy body weight bracket (as weight does, of course, naturally fluctuate) by riding your bike more.

5. Cycling has a range of mental health benefits

With mental health cases on the rise, rates of self-harm among young women have tripled since 1993, and women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with anxiety as men, according to the charity Mental Health Foundation, it’s becoming increasingly crucial that outlets are found and promoted to help people with their mental health.

Although medical intervention with any serious health conditions is important (be it medication or therapy), exercise can help. Lancet reported that one study in the US found that “individuals who exercised had 1,49 (43,2%) fewer days of poor mental health in the past month than individuals who did not exercise”. Adding that “the largest associations were seen for popular team sports (22,3% lower), cycling (21,6% lower)”.

Therefore, it’s safe to say that cycling really can be a brilliant way to ease mental health issues and improve the wellbeing of women who seem to disproportionately suffer from certain mental health issues more.

6. Cycling can help to reduce risk of cancer

In 2020, the World Cancer Research Fund International reported that breast cancer was the most common cancer in women globally. Contributing to a whopping 25.8% of the total number of new cancer cases diagnosed that year.

With breast cancer being the most common form back in 2020, it’s important that we do what we can to help prevent cancer from occurring. Of course, genetics plays a large role, but so does lifestyle.

Research carried out by the University of Glasgow back in 2017 found that cycling to work is associated with a 45% lower risk of developing cancer, helping conclude that cycling really could help you from developing cancer.

7. Cycling can improve your social life

Life is pretty full-on for women. The research highlighted by the Independent states women have less free time, meaning it can be challenging to fit in socializing.

However, cycling benefits for ladies can include an improved social life. Kill two birds with one stone and ride with other women. Making cycling a fantastic social outlet.

Riding with friends and women only groups as well as clubs in your local area is a brilliant way to make new friends and enjoy some social time. Not to mention, cafe stops on bike rides are also a great way to interact with cycling friends and help you to get out and about.

8. Cycling can be great during pregnancy

Cycling is a brilliant way to keep fit; this is also true for many women during pregnancy. The charity Sustrans has covered this topic, stating that cycling has been shown to help build stamina for labor and delivery, speed up post-natal recovery, and help increase your energy levels.

The same piece goes on to state: “Some women experience pelvic pain when walking during pregnancy. But cycling can help ease that pain and be a much more comfortable way to get around your local area.”

Not just during pregnancy but post-pregnancy, cycling can help with NHS Scotland, suggesting that regular exercise can be a good form of self-help for postnatal depression symptoms.

9. Cycling lowers risk of heart disease

Among the various other wonderful benefits of cycling for women, lowering the chances of developing heart disease is also one of them.

Research carried out in the UK and published by The BMJ discovered “Commuting by cycling was associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality and adverse CVD”. CVD is cardio vascular disease.

Yet again proving, that commuting to and from work could literally save your life. Therefore it’s time to swap the four wheels for two.

10. Cycling lowers risk of diabetes

Along with reducing the risk of cancer and heart disease, cycling can also help to prevent the risk of diabetes developing.

Research carried out in Finland found that people cycling for 30 minutes or more per day had a 40% lower risk of developing diabetes. This means riding to work or the shops daily can help prevent diabetes.

Therefore, although more men are diagnosed with type 2 and type 1 diabetes than women, it’s still an illness that affects women, but cycling can lower the chances of suffering from it.

Effects of Cycling on Female Body

All in all, cycling has some seriously positive effects on the female body.

Not only does cycling help prevent female cancers or the likelihood of developing other physical conditions, but it also helps to reduce the symptoms associated with mental health issues.

Therefore, although choosing cycling as your form of daily exercise won’t necessarily guarantee prevention or a quick solution to illness, it can help. It can help improve your fitness, your body weight, and thus body image.

But most importantly, it can help you to feel good about yourself. Without our mental well-being, regardless of our physical state, life would be a lot tougher to get through.

Cycling Side Effects for Females

The side effects expected for women can include being much happier. As the science suggests, exercising can increase endorphins and other feel-good chemicals in the brain and reduce stress levels. Therefore, cycling regularly will make you happy 24/7. Goodbye sadness, hello happy times!

Not only that but animals and the environment will automatically love you. For opting for the green option of riding your bike over car or vehicle usage, you will find fury critters become much more fond of you in the Snow White type of way. You will become one with nature, no doubt.

However, your bank balance may dislike your new passion… But sometimes you have to invest a little in your health, be it a new bike or new cycling clothing like a comfy pair of leggings. Either way, it’s worth it.

On a serious note, cycling can be a transformative way of life for women. It is a great sport and mode of transport, and the numerous health benefits for women prove it’s a great activity. If you ask me, you get to sit down while enjoying two wheels, the icing on the cake.

The post Cycling Benefits for Women: 10 Biggest Effects for Ladies appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

As more people around the world embrace cycling as a lifestyle, it’s essential to recognize its profound impact on health.

From prolonging life expectancy to boosting mental resilience, cycling is far more than just an eco-friendly mode of transport or an enjoyable hobby.

Let’s delve into the myriad health benefits of cycling that touch not only the physical but also the mental realm.

Cycling Health Benefits

An in-depth report by the ECF (European Cyclists’ Federation) has highlighted the key cycling health benefits found in Europe. In the sections below, we’ll look at the key health benefits of cycling, with real-world data to back up each point.

ALSO READ: Cycling for Knee Pain: Is Riding a Bicycle a Good Idea? 

1. Longer Lives, Richer Years

Cycling helps prevent 18,110 premature deaths each year in the European Union. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a reflection of how cycling adds years to our lives. Studies estimate the economic value of these additional years at a remarkable €52 billion per year.

Example: Research has shown that regular cycling can reduce the risk of developing heart disease and type 2 diabetes, among other chronic illnesses, thus significantly increasing life expectancy.

2: Cycling and Mental Health

We all know that physical activity is beneficial for mental well-being, but did you know cycling reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s by 29% and cognitive decline by 26%? 

Example: In the U.S., a study by the Alzheimer’s Association showed that regular physical exercise like cycling can delay the onset of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

3. Uplifting Spirits

Cycling also has a positive impact on mental health by reducing the odds of developing depression by 17%. Regular exercise releases endorphins, often described as natural mood lifters.

Example: A study published in “The Lancet Psychiatry” found that people who exercise have 1.4 fewer days of poor mental health per month compared to those who do not exercise.

4. Impact on Children’s Academic Performance

Children who cycle or walk to school experience an 8% boost in concentration levels four hours after arriving in the classroom. Physical exercise in the morning sets a productive tone for the day.

Example: Schools in Denmark that encouraged cycling and physical activity reported improvements in children’s academic performance, particularly in subjects like Math and Science.

5. Boosting Workplace Productivity

Employees who cycle to work take an average of 1.3 fewer sick days per year, which equates to almost €5 billion in annual savings for employers across the EU.

Example: Companies like Google and Apple offer bike-friendly campuses, reflecting the growing awareness that healthy employees contribute to a more productive work environment.

6. General Health Boost

Cycling is a low-impact exercise, making it accessible for people of all age groups. From boosting cardiovascular health to enhancing muscular strength, the physical benefits are innumerable.

Example: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week. Cycling is an enjoyable way to achieve this target.

ALSO READ: Effect of Cycling on Body Shape: 7 Biggest Changes

ALSO READ: How Does Cycling Help Your Body? A Cardio Health Guide

Conclusion: Why Cycling is So Good for You

The health benefits of cycling are indeed far-reaching, impacting both the physical and mental dimensions of well-being. From extending life expectancy and boosting workplace productivity to improving mental health and academic performance, cycling proves to be not just a mode of transportation but a pathway to a healthier, happier life.

The post 6 Cycling Health Benefits (Backed by Scientific Research) appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

As discussions around climate change and sustainability grow louder, cycling emerges as not just a fitness trend, but a much-needed solution for environmental problems. 

But while ‘cycling’ is often broadly painted as a green mode of transport, here we’ll explore the real environmental benefits of riding a bicycle and the numbers behind them.

Cycling Environmental Benefits

This article will delve into the multiple environmental benefits of cycling, backed by facts and figures produced by an in-depth report from ECF (European Cyclists’ Federation).

Here are the six most pertinent cycling benefits for the environment from that report.

1. Cycling Reduces Carbon Footprint

Cycling saves more than 16 million tons of CO2 equivalents per year in the European Union. To put that into perspective, that’s equivalent to the total yearly CO2 emissions of a country like Croatia.

2. Cycling Helps Improve Air Quality

With fewer emissions than cars, cycling contributes significantly to cleaner air. The value of reduced air pollution due to cycling is estimated at €435 million. Considering air pollution causes around 400,000 premature deaths per year in Europe, that’s a big win.

3. Cycling Reduces Noise Pollution

Cycling also has the benefit of being quiet. This helps reduce noise pollution, which is significant considering that road traffic noise causes nearly 8,900 premature deaths and almost 800,000 additional cases of hypertension per year in Europe. The estimated savings from reduced noise pollution due to cycling is around €300 million.

ALSO READ: Is Cycling Really Green? [The Pros + Cons of Bikes for the Environment]

4. Cycling Saves Fuel

Cycling saves more than 3 billion liters of fuel per year in the EU, which translates to nearly €4 billion in savings. This amount is comparable to the annual fuel consumption for road transport in a country like Ireland.

5. Growing Bicycle Market

The bicycle market is booming, valued at €13.2 billion in 2016 and expected to grow at an annual rate of 5.5% until 2022. This trend indicates that more people are taking up cycling, further contributing to environmental benefits.

6. Cargo Bikes and Sustainable Logistics

Cargo bikes are making a statement in urban logistics. They could replace up to 25% of commercial deliveries and 77% of private logistics trips in urban areas, making cities more sustainable.

ALSO READ: Are Electric Bikes Actually Good for the Environment? [ANALYSIS]

A Ride Towards a Greener Future

The environmental benefits of cycling are compelling, offering a viable solution to several environmental issues we face today. Whether it’s reducing emissions, saving fuel, or cutting down on noise pollution, cycling offers a multifaceted approach to environmental sustainability.

With this kind of positive impact, it’s time we shift gears and ride more responsibly, not just for our health or convenience, but for the planet we call home.

ALSO READ: Should Cars Be Banned from City Centers?

The post 6 Environmental Benefits of Cycling Based on Science appeared first on Discerning Cyclist.

In Short…

The car-free debate has two prominent sides. Advocates argue for environmental benefits, improved public health, and economic growth, citing examples from cities like Paris and Copenhagen. Opponents raise concerns about community backlash, economic impacts, and accessibility issues. It’s a complex topic that requires a nuanced approach to address urban challenges.

What would happen if cars were banned from cities?

Cities around the world are grappling with growing populations, urban sprawl, and environmental concerns. 

One topic that consistently emerges in urban planning circles is the concept of banning cars from city centres. 

The idea is both radical and divisive, provoking strong reactions from all stakeholders—cyclists, motorists, business owners, environmentalists, and policymakers alike. 

In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of this debate, examining the pros and cons of such a drastic move. Our aim is not to provide a definitive answer but to offer a balanced view, drawing upon real-world examples like the Paris car ban, to help you form your own opinion. 

Should cars be banned from cities? It’s a complex question with no easy answers, but one that deserves thoughtful discussion and analysis.

The Case for Banning Cars from City Centers

Why Should Cars Be Banned?

Environmental Benefits:

One of the most compelling arguments for banning cars is the environmental impact. Cars, especially older models, emit significant amounts of greenhouse gases and air pollutants. By eliminating cars, cities could see an immediate improvement in air quality. 

According to the World Resources Institute (WRI), about 14% of annual greenhouse gas emissions globally come from the transportation sector, and 72% of those emissions come from road vehicles. The WRI has warned that “transitioning to zero-emission transport is a crucial step toward a livable future.”

Reduced car usage could also mean less reliance on fossil fuels, pushing cities to invest in more sustainable and energy-efficient public transportation options. 

Pedestrian-Friendly Spaces:

Winston Churchill ones famously proclaimed, “we shape our buildings and thereafter they shape us.” Transforming city centres into more pedestrian-friendly zones offers the opportunity to reclaim the spaces previously lost to cars. These zones would make room for broader sidewalks, public squares, and green spaces, enhancing the overall urban experience. 

Thejas Jagannath, Planner at Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, writes on Medium; “An example of a successful pedestrian street encouraged by Jan Gehl is Stroget in Copenhagen which is a pedestrian car-free shopping area in Denmark. This has created an attractive place for people to engage in and create a sense of community so that people don’t feel isolated in cities.” According to Jagannath, “seeing other people on the street can bring about a sense of community and belonging. Stroget is also one of the largest pedestrianized streets in the world.”

Improving Public Health:

There’s also a health angle to consider. With fewer cars on the road, noise pollution would decrease, leading to less stress and better mental health for residents. The ban would also encourage more people to walk, cycle, or use public transport, thereby increasing physical activity. 

According to an article published by the Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU), “living in a walkable place that allows for activity built into each day benefits every age group, and helps people to live longer. Walking to school also promotes independence among children.” It’s also been proved that physical activity, like walking and cycling, raises endorphin levels, and lowers stress-related cortisol which helps people to sleep better. 

Improving Safety:

Fewer cars mean safer streets. The risk of road accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists would decrease significantly, making the city safer for everyone. 

Urbanist writer Jane Jacobs, in her book The Death and Life of Great American Cities, warned that unless kept in check, city streets would become “unwalkable”. Her book, published in 1961, urged urban planning systems not to prioritize cars over other modes of transport as this would “detach neighborhoods and public spaces” from one another. 

In an online report by Vox, data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals that  “about 17 pedestrians and two cyclists were killed on average each day in the US in 2018 — the highest since 1990”. 

The data indicates that most American streets are dangerous by design and not pedestrian-friendly at all. 

In summary, the case for banning cars from city centres is built on several pillars ranging from environmental gains to public health and safety. The idea is to reclaim the city for its residents, making it a more livable, breathable, and enjoyable space.

Economic Growth:

In a report written by Cambridge Econometrics, supported by Element Energy, on behalf of Greenpeace UK – a 2030 ban on polluting cars could create more than 30,000 new jobs and provide a £4.2bn boost to the economy. 

“Bringing forward the date from which new petrol, diesel and hybrid cars and vans can no longer be sold in the UK to 2030 could create 32,000 new jobs by the same year and increase GDP by 0.2% or £4.2 billion pounds.

“Increases in employment and resulting higher levels of economic activity from a 2030 transition to electric vehicles would provide the government with a £1.9 billion net increase in revenue by 2030,” the study found.

ALSO READ: Car-Free Cities Around the World: 12 Great Urban Examples

Success Stories: Cities That Have Implemented Car Bans

Covid Streets:

The devastating COVID-19 pandemic unintentionally created safe public spaces in big cities. According to a report by Bloomberg, some cities converted streets into pedestrian-friendly corridors with restricted vehicle access. 

“They became something else: an example of how readily urban space can be repurposed for mobility and play, and how quickly human activity can surge back when cars are removed.” 

Many cities decided to keep the temporary “safe streets,” “slow streets,” or so-called “open streets”. 

In America a survey by the National Association of City Transportation Officials found that most cities were making Covid-era traffic changes permanent. 

“At the end of April 2021, New York City passed a bill making its Open Streets program — the most extensive in the U.S. — permanent, and California is mulling legislation that would streamline that process,” Bloomberg reported at the time.

Paris Car Ban:

The city of Paris has been a forerunner in the initiative to ban cars from city centers. With the implementation of car-free zones and restricted traffic days, Paris has seen notable improvements in air quality and pedestrian safety. The move also gave way to a surge in bicycle and scooter usage, fundamentally changing the city’s transportation dynamic.

Henry Grabar writes about the drastic changes in the streets of Paris in an article on Slate titled ‘How Paris Kicked Out the Cars’. According to Grabar, Paris in the 90s had so little cyclists, that they recognized each other. “There were 3 miles of bike lanes; now there are more than 150. In October 2020, the number of daily bike trips likely surpassed 400,000—1 for every 5 inhabitants. And traffic in the city’s busiest bike lanes has grown by more than 20 percent since.”

Grabar adds, “Each rush-hour light change at the intersection of Rue de Rivoli and Boulevard Sébastopol, in the center of the city, brings a bewildering, silent dance of scores of bicycles. Paris is learning to ride a bike.”

Read more about the Paris Car Ban.

Copenhagen:

The Danish capital, Copenhagen, has long been a pioneer in green urban living. With extensive bike lanes and limited car zones, the city serves as a model for how reduced car presence can lead to a more harmonious urban environment.

The World Economic Forum (WEF) reports that in Copenhagen, bikes outnumber cars by more than five to one. “Almost one-third (29%) of all journeys across Copenhagen are done on a bike, and 41% of commutes (to work or study) are the result of pedal power. For people living as well as working or studying in Copenhagen that proportion is even higher – 62%.”

The main reason for for the popularity of cycling in Denmark is its sprawling network of paths, including innovative bridges, which form cycling superhighways across Copenhagen. 
Visit Copenhagen echoes this statement, highlighting infrastructure as the main reason behind the city’s cycling culture. “Copenhagen has demonstrated that with a network of simple, safe, and connected infrastructure, the bicycle can be a competitive mode of transportation for people of all ages and abilities.”

Oslo:

Norway’s capital, Oslo, has taken bold steps by removing parking spaces and investing heavily in public transport and bike lanes. These moves aim to make the inner city almost entirely car-free, showing that it’s possible even in cities with harsh winter climates.

In May 2023, Oslo received the Road Safety Award at the second edition of the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF) Awards. The city was praised for making incredible progress towards becoming one of Europe’s safest cities for cyclists. 

“Thanks to the city’s ambitions and concrete actions, a 2022 public survey revealed that 31% of respondents now consider it safe to cycle in the city, a meteoric rise from only 9% in 2014. 

“Following radical changes to city streets, such as the implementation of 30 km/h speed limits and the removal of over 700 on-street parking spots inside the city’s inner ring road, this city became one of the first in Europe to achieve Vision Zero, with zero road deaths on its streets in 2019, and has since been leading the way with one of the fewest numbers of cyclist fatalities per year in Europe,” Travel Tomorrow reported. 

But Oslo isn’t the only Norwegian city making in-roads when it comes to making life safer and easier for commuters. 

CNN reported on 18 April 2023 that a three-kilometer-long (1.8-mile) cycling and pedestrian tunnel, named Fyllingsdalstunnelen, opened in Norway. 

“The tunnel is one of two tunnels in the new pedestrian and cycling path from the city center to Fyllingsdalen in Bergen. The path is 7.8 km long in total and takes about 25 minutes to bike,” Visit Bergen stated on its website. 

Barcelona:

Barcelona’s “Superblock” model aims to reduce traffic by creating zones that are primarily for local access, with through-traffic going around them. This has led to increased public spaces and improved air quality in the implemented areas.

POLIS, a leading network of European cities and regions working together to develop innovative technologies and policies for local transport, explains the Superblock as “a 3 x 3 grid of 9 city blocks and restrict vehicle traffic to the streets on the perimeter. The interior streets then become available for walking, biking, and expanded green space.”

The project was developed by Salvador Rueda, City of Barcelona’s Director of Urban Ecology. “We want these public spaces to be areas where one can exercise all citizen rights: exchange, expression and participation, culture and knowledge, the right to leisure,” Rueda told The Guardian in an interview about the project.

Barcelona’s Car-Free Superblock Explained:

Each of these cities offers valuable insights into the potential benefits and challenges of banning cars from city centers. Their experiences provide a real-world framework for understanding what could be achieved elsewhere.

ALSO READ: Colombia’s Deep-Rooted Love for Cycling

The Case Against Banning Cars from City Centers

Why Should Cars Not Be Banned?

Backlash from the Community:

Andrew Kersley writes in a Wired article titled, ‘People Hate the Idea of Car-Free Cities—Until They Live in One’ that going car-free isn’t as simple as it seems. Often the biggest pushback will come from the community itself. 

Kersley writes, “when Oslo proposed in 2017 that its city center should be car-free, the backlash saw the idea branded as a ‘Berlin Wall against motorists.’ The plan ended up being downgraded into a less ambitious scheme consisting of smaller changes, like removing car parking and building cycle lanes to try to lower the number of vehicles”.

In London, the introduction of LTNs (Low Traffic Neighbourhoods) has also led to a massive backlash. “In the east London borough of Hackney, one councilor and his family were sent death threats due to their support for the program.”

This volatile reaction to change the way we commute in cities is largely due to the fact that most of society has built its existence around cars.

Economic Impacts:

While the environmental and health benefits of banning cars from city centres are compelling, there are potential economic downsides to consider. Small businesses, particularly retail and food service, could experience reduced footfall, leading to a decline in sales and even closures. Several taxis and drivers will also be at risk of losing their jobs as cars will be limited in the central business districts of cities. 

“The quickest way to make a city centre die is to stop people getting in there,” Hugh Bladen, of the Association for British Drivers, says in an article published by the BBC. According to Bladen, Britain’s declining high streets won’t be helped by restrictions on driving. “Some towns and cities get clogged up but that’s just because of poor planning; they should have better parking options,” he added.

Accessibility Issues:

A car ban could also have social implications. For individuals with disabilities or those living in “transportation deserts”—areas poorly served by public transit—cars may be the only viable means of transportation. Implementing a car ban without adequate alternative solutions could disproportionately impact these populations.

In a paper by Abigail Weizer, from the California Polytechnic State University, titled Planning, Preserving, and Increasing Accessibility: A Reflection on Going ‘Car-Free’, the negative impact of removing vehicles is also explored. “Cars offer a degree of access, freedom, and mobility with which no other use can currently compete. Cars provide freedom from scheduled and fixed route systems, a direct line to one’s destination, and a degree of personalization,” Weizer writes. 

Adding, “Going car-free, then, can potentially have a negative impact on the freedom, health, and safety of disabled drivers who can no longer use their vehicles to connect directly to their destinations.”

Increased Traffic in Surrounding Areas:

There’s also a risk of unintended consequences, like increased traffic in areas just outside the car-free zones. Drivers might opt for peripheral routes, causing congestion and potentially shifting pollution and safety risks elsewhere.

When roads are blocked off, it will disturb the flow of traffic. Many inner-cities were developed around cars and car lanes. Cutting off some of these routes could lead to backups or delays elsewhere.

Alternatives to a Complete Car Ban

Congestion Pricing and Low Emission Zones:

If a full-on car ban seems too radical, there are less extreme measures to consider. Cities like London have implemented congestion pricing, charging vehicles to enter busy areas during peak hours. Similarly, low emission zones, which only allow cleaner vehicles to enter certain areas, can also be effective.

To help clear London’s air the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) expanded on 29 August 2023 to cover all London boroughs. The ULEZ operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, every day of the year, except Christmas Day (25 December). Drivers of vehicles that don’t meet certain emission standards need to pay a daily charge to drive in the zone. 

“Nine out of ten cars seen driving in outer London on an average day meet the standards meaning their drivers won’t be affected. 

“For those who are, the Mayor of London has funded a £160m scrappage scheme to help Londoners, small businesses, sole traders and charities prepare for the expansion. Every Londoner with a non-compliant car or motorcycle is now eligible to apply for funding. Small businesses (fewer than 50 employees), sole traders and charities registered in London are also eligible for scrappage funding.  

“Temporary ULEZ exemptions are also in place until 2025 for community transport minibusSes, and until 2027 for people receiving certain disability benefits and wheelchair-accessible vehicles,” reads a statement on London.gov.uk.

ALSO READ: Has Cycling Increased in London?

Improved Public Transportation:

Another middle-ground solution is to invest heavily in public transportation infrastructure. By making public transit more efficient, accessible, and affordable, cities could reduce car dependency without needing to enforce an outright ban.

For citizens to use public transport instead of cars, public transport needs to be given priority on roads, customer satisfaction and safety need to be improved, and connectivity needs to expand to make traveling more convenient.

Summary:

While the idea of car-free city centres can be attractive, it’s important to consider these varied factors. The challenges point to a need for a nuanced approach, one that considers economic, social, and logistical implications alongside environmental and health benefits.

Paris Car Ban: A Closer Look

Positive Impacts of the Paris Car Ban

Environmental Gains:

Paris has made significant strides in improving air quality since the introduction of car-free zones and restricted traffic days. Reduced vehicle emissions have resulted in cleaner air, which has immediate and long-term health benefits for residents.

Health Improvements:

Apart from cleaner air, the car ban in Paris has encouraged more active modes of transportation like walking and cycling. This has had positive ripple effects on public health, reducing rates of diseases related to sedentary lifestyles.

Urban Revitalization:

The restrictions have also led to the revitalization of public spaces. Streets once clogged with cars have transformed into pedestrian-friendly zones, complete with cafes, street art, and community activities, enhancing the quality of life in the city.

ALSO READ: How Did Paris Become a “Cycling City”?

Criticisms and Challenges in Paris

Legal Battles:

The car ban hasn’t been without its challenges. Legal hurdles, such as lawsuits from motorists and business groups, have been a significant obstacle. They argue that the restrictions infringe on personal freedoms and hurt businesses.

Social and Economic Pushback:

There’s also been criticism about the social and economic impact of the ban. Critics argue that it disproportionately affects lower-income families and individuals who rely on cars for work but can’t afford to move closer to the city center.

Implementation Issues:

Lastly, the logistics of implementing and enforcing the car ban has proven challenging. Questions remain about the effectiveness of fines, the role of law enforcement, and how to handle exceptions, like emergency vehicles.

Summary:

Paris serves as both a success story and a cautionary tale. Its experiences offer crucial lessons in the practicalities and implications of imposing a car ban in a major city.

Balancing the Scales: Should Cars Be Banned from Cities?

Mixed Views and Lack of Consensus:

Public opinion on this issue is far from unanimous. Surveys and studies have shown a divided public, with some strongly supporting car bans for their environmental and health benefits, while others oppose them due to concerns over economic impact and personal freedom. This lack of consensus indicates the complexity of the issue and suggests that any policy decisions should take multiple viewpoints into account.

So, Should Cars Be Banned from Cities?

The debate on whether to ban cars from city centres is undeniably complex, requiring a nuanced approach that weighs various pros and cons. However, the compelling benefits of doing so are hard to ignore. From substantial environmental and health gains to the transformation of urban spaces into pedestrian-friendly, community-centered zones, the advantages are significant.

While there are concerns about economic impact and accessibility, these are challenges that innovative urban planning and policy measures can address. For example, robust public transport systems and targeted financial support can mitigate many of the negative effects on businesses and vulnerable populations. 

Given the urgent need to address climate change and improve public health, leaning towards restrictions on car usage appears to offer more long-term benefits than drawbacks. Tailoring the approach to suit the specific circumstances of each city—perhaps through partial bans or low-emission zones—can serve as an effective compromise.

In conclusion, the potential gains from banning cars in city centres strongly argue in favor of taking such bold actions. While the decision should involve multiple stakeholders and be carefully planned, the overarching benefits make a compelling case for moving in this direction.

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Have you wondered why bicycle wheels come in different sizes? Why some models of mountain bikes have a choice of 26 inch diameter or 29 inch diameter rims? Do you know your rotational energy from your gyroscopic stability? 

The bike is a fascinating, ongoing physics experiment. In its simple terms, to move forwards you’re only adding the physical capabilities of the body to the relative simplicity of the mechanical advantage gained whilst pedalling. 

From this template, it’s been relatively simple for boffins to experiment, research and develop those terms learned in science lessons. They’re investigating acceleration, air and wind resistance, inertia, aerodynamics and friction. 

But then lower-cost testing by passionate enthusiasts out of a Californian garage and an accident of availability helped to create the first mountain bike wheels and a dedicated mind created a stowaway with 17 inch wheels. Vast budgets and multi-million pound wind-tunnel testing is often saved for Olympians with wings.

The size, weight and rigidity of wheels all contribute to the maximum speed that a person can reach on a bike and the time it takes to get there. To most people, faster can mean the ability to move quickly, or taking a comparatively shorter time to get somewhere.  

We’ll examine the reasons why different wheel sizes make you faster in different circumstances and also look at some of the more practical reasons for different wheel sizes. This isn’t a science assignment and wheel size can be as much to do with practicality, marketing and gimmicks as the attainment of speed.

There are definitely reasons other than speed and going faster that should influence your choice of wheel size.

Bicycle Wheel Sizes

We’ve come a long way from the Penny Farthing. Road, hybrid and gravel bikes are now rooted to a 622 millimetre (mm) wheel diameter known as 700c. This default size is a European concept from the 1970s. There are small variations around that width for specialist wheels. A smaller version known as 650b is 584mm in width and is increasing in popularity.

Mountain bike rims vacillate between 660.4mm and 736.6mm – the higher amount known as a 29er. These differences are to control comfort and handling. Folding bikes typically operate with a 406.4mm to 508mm rim diameter.

Their size is largely practical to assist with the fold but there are some advantages. If you want practicality and standard diameter rims, you can have that too.

Does Bike Wheel Size Affect Speed?

Bike wheel size is defined by the science behind bike manufacture. Bike manufacturers need sales. Speed sells and road bikes came first. Constant speed is a mainstay of road cycling. A larger wheel helps you to hit a constant speed. A smaller wheel will accelerate faster to reach that speed.

But in the real world, the answer is – it depends. As you change the wheel size of a bike you change many of the dynamics and characteristics which make up speed. The forces a person can deliver through a BMX are very different to a commuting bike with the same gear ratio. 

Wheel size also influences the tyre pressure you can obtain, which influences stability on the bike and rolling resistance. Wheel size also influences comfort, fatigue, friction, aerodynamics, stopping and wind resistance. 

Do Bikes with Larger Wheels Go Faster?

Larger wheels tend to be heavier than smaller wheels and they can hold speed for longer because increased mass allows an object to have greater conserved momentum. The physics suggests you’ll be able to maintain a faster speed for longer with a larger wheel because it has more mass. 

Of course, you could make a large and small wheel have the same mass by using different materials. But then momentum is equally influenced by the area of an object as much as its mass. A bigger wheel has the bigger area of the two. Therefore more momentum. 

In practical terms, a bigger wheel slows down less quickly than a smaller wheel of the same weight. So, in a straight commute on a comfortable road surface, larger wheels will decelerate less than smaller wheels. 

You have to put more effort into turning a big wheel but it will go faster if you can keep it spinning at the same rate as a small one. 

Do Smaller Bike Wheels Go Faster?

A smaller wheel accelerates more rapidly than a larger wheel. Everything else being equal they have lower mass. A smaller wheel should have less wind resistance. But their size can influence the feeling of the surface beneath them and they deal with obstacles differently too.

Imagine if your commute to work involved riding up and down curbs. Now think about the relative difficulty involved in negotiating those curbs on a pair of in-line skates compared to a tractor. 

Or perhaps more practically, think about a pothole in the road. The smaller wheel of a folding bike means that an obstruction is going to be larger and your ride becomes rougher. A smaller rim can mean a shorter spoke, which is a little more rigid for a firmer ride.

But if your journey to work involves dozens of stop-starts across traffic lights then you’ll be grateful for the fast acceleration of a smaller wheel. 

Conclusion: Are Bigger Bicycle Wheels Faster?

Bigger means better for relaxed riding and control. Fast road bikes, hybrid bikes and commuter bikes rely on maintaining a constant speed with few reasons to change direction. That means maintaining momentum and bigger wheels do that. But a smaller wheel in certain circumstances is quicker.

A smaller wheel fits into a smaller frame and is stiffer and potentially less aerodynamic. You could therefore transfer more power into the pedalling action and cheat more of the wind.

Bikes with smaller wheels might climb hills better because it takes less effort to accelerate them. There’s even the notion that a smaller wheel means you run less risk of your toe clipping the tyre when you turn. Smaller riders are moving towards 650b wheel sizes for comfort and practicality.

Ultimately, your own fit and positioning on your bike are the most important factors in determining what size wheel you want to ride.

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