As the wintry weather begins to slowly dissipate and the sun starts to burst through the clouds more regularly, many around the world will be wandering into their cellars and garages in search of their bicycles. For many, the time is fast approaching to get back in the saddle. The European spring is upon us, and streets all around the continent will be filling up with more and more cyclists going about their everyday lives. But what is it about Europe that makes cycling so appealing?
Over the years, European cities have dominated the top ten of the best cities in the world to cycle in, despite cities like Vancouver in Canada and many of the stunning locations in New Zealand being very cycle-friendly. While cities that do not feature in the top ten should not be discounted, the infrastructure in many European cities and events that are held on the continent are great adverts for cycling. For example, the attention of those in sports betting in Canada will be drawn to the Tour de France that takes place every year. The grueling 3,500km competition is the most prestigious and toughest cycling competition. Although most cyclists will not be tackling the daunting hill climbs and trails that these competitors take on, the televised event does give non-Europeans a good glimpse into the beauty of cycling in Europe.
But elite cyclists and their exploits aside, there are plenty of other reasons why cycling is simply easier in Europe. In countries like the Netherlands, Denmark and Germany, the mindset that has spanned generations and is part of the fabric of their respective cultures is probably the biggest reason why cycling is second nature to residents in these countries. People in some households will even own two or more bicycles. The three countries certainly lead the way in the best cycling locations, with Germany in particular featuring heavily, but other countries like England for example are quickly improving the infrastructure around cycling to make it more appealing and safer for cyclists.
Having safe and dedicated paths for cyclists is a significant contributor to why lots of people cycle in Europe. The mindset factor also plays a part in how cities have developed their cycle-friendly attitude. Regardless of whether there are narrow streets or broad boulevards, cities have either utilized the width of a street to create dedicated cycle lanes or have made certain streets that are too narrow for cars purely for cyclists.
The health benefits of cycling remain undisputed but there are plenty of other advantages to cycling in Europe which makes the continent the place to travel on two wheels.
Photo – Madalijna, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
