Ministry of Foreign Affairs of 2 3 THE WORLD'S FIRST country that, for more than a century, embassy has also simplified information has been a place of cyclists. Today, seeking about everyday . CYCLING EMBASSY Denmark is a cycling laboratory where “Earlier it could be a challenge finding a new trends and ideas are combined with way into the jungle of Danish cycling International interest in Danish cycling culture has grown rapidly. As an answer knowledge gained through years of knowledge. Cycling Embassy of Denmark to this, a completely new phenomenon experience – experience that we’re more has made it easier. The main actors in the has seen the light of day. The world’s than happy to share. field of cycling are now members of the first cycling embassy: a center for Embassy, and through the Embassy’s service and knowledge for anyone One entrance to knowledge seeking information on cycling in website it is easy to get in touch with Denmark. “No other single activity can experts in different fields,” says Troels simultaneously improve general health Andersen, representing the By Lotte Ruby, Danish Cyclists conditions and fitness, reduce pollution of , and Chairman of the Federation and CO2 emissions, and help tackle Cycling Embassy. congestion. That is why countries around Experts in all fields Congestion, obesity and climate issues: In the world now want to re-introduce the the last decade a new set of challenges as a means of daily transportation,” Today, Cycling Embassy of Denmark have emerged, and they have slowly but says Marie Magni from the private comprises experts in city planning, certainly changed the common view on company Veksø, one of the members of infrastructure, cycling promotion, parking cycling as a means of transport. Cycling is Cycling Embassy of Denmark. facilities, bicycle tourism, biking, , no longer a mere curiosity; it has become The Embassy is a comprehensive network equipment, health promotion and much part of the answer to many of the of private companies, local authorities, more. problems concerning modern life in and non-government organizations, “As a private company with years of thousands of the rapidly growing cities all working together to promote Denmark as experiences in working with urban cycling over the world. This change of view has a cycling country nationally and solutions and cycling equipment, I find turned many eyes towards Denmark – a internationally. The construction of the the Cycling Embassy an excellent

”We are actually just copying so it should really be us awarding a prize to the Danes instead", New York City's Mayor Michael Bloomberg said receiving a prize from the Cycling Embassy of Denmark in acknowledgement of New York's recent efforts for cyclists.

4 platform to develop new ideas with colleagues in other organizations. When we unite our efforts through the Embassy we can reach out much further and help each other. And of course we can also help people in other countries who want to develop a cycling culture,” says Marie Magni.

Starting from scratch Building, or as is often the case, re- building a cycling culture is not an easy task. There is much more to it than simply constructing bicycle paths (or “Copenhagen lanes” as they have been named in some countries). But Denmark’s experience shows that with the right know-how it is possible to change habits and create cleaner, safer, healthier, and more liveable cities. “Many city planners, politicians and NGOs around the world begin from scratch when trying to build up a bicycle culture. One of the main goals for Cycling Embassy of Denmark is to share the experiences from Denmark and facilitate the development of attractive cycling cultures around the world. We cannot give people a cycling culture, but we can help them with ideas, share our experiences, show them the Danish Troels Andersen is one of the most experienced traffic planers in Denmark - and now also chairman of cycling solutions, and help them take the the Cycling Embassy of Denmark first important steps,” says Troels Andersen. basic level. But everybody is welcome – Contact: Ask us about everything and for us it is an endless source of Secretariat for Cycling Embassy of Cycling Embassy of Denmark was inspiration to follow the development of Denmark, launched in May 2009. Since then a huge cyclist cities all over the world,” Troels Danish Cyclists Federation number of delegations from all continents Andersen concludes. Rømersgade 5 have visited Denmark, and many more 1362 Copenhagen K have been in contact with members of the The members of the Cycling Embassy: Denmark Embassy with inquiries concerning all City of Copenhagen, City of Århus, City Att: Cycling Embassy of Denmark aspects of cycling. of Frederiksberg, City of , Tel: (+ 45) 40 70 83 58 Cycling Embassy of Denmark has , Ballerup Fax: (+ 45) 33 32 76 83 participated in various international Municipality, The Danish Two-wheel E-mail: [email protected] conferences, seminars, and exhibitions. Retailers Association, VisitDenmark, The Embassy collaborates with other Danish Cyclists Federation, Aros international organizations and Danish Communication, Reelight, Velorbis, Embassies abroad in promoting cycling. Veksø, Cowi, Gehl Architects, and the In addition to this, the Embassy helps Danish Cancer Society. plan visits to Denmark for professionals, journalists, and students interested in Further information: cycling solutions and knowledge. www.cycling-embassy.org “Some delegations have already been working with cycling for years. They are usually seeking detailed information on very specific subjects. Others come from countries with no cycling culture at all and are looking for answers on a very

5 The city of Odense participates at the EXPO 2010 in Shanghai, China with a 500 square meters exhibit explaining the city's bicycle program in words, pictures and sound.

CITY OF ODENSE JOINS onto the streets at the expense of bicycles about traffic, water, heating, electricity and ultimately the environment. China is and renovation. WORLD EXPO 2010 thus facing an exceptionally large task in the coming years to safeguard the Around the exhibition and alongside the When the World Expo 2010 opens in Shanghai, the city of Odense will be environment, and here Odense can help neighbouring Shanghai and London there with its exhibition pavilion with its knowledge and experience. pavilions, a typical Danish cycle path will ‘Spinning Wheels’ along with fellow cities be constructed allowing visitors to get the such as London and Madrid. In Shanghai the challenge will be to wind in their hair. Odense has been specially invited because of its know-how and experience present the bicycle to the Chinese, who in cycling, city planning and already know plenty about the subject, in Danes say that they live in a country sustainability. another context than the one the Chinese where the bicycle reigns supreme. The know. The focus of the exhibition is that exhibition will have a bicycle park, a By Kristina Edrén, cycling is more than two wheels and two special designed device counting cyclists pedals. It is just as much about image, and bicycle pumps to show how Odense For more than 30 years the two-wheeler design and health, as well as sustainability accords cyclists the same attention as has cycled around in the thoughts of the and environment. motorists. people of Odense when they have discussed city planning, environment and The pavilion is built as an open A hands-on experience for visitors health, and now their efforts have construction so that it can be seen from resonated on the other side of the globe. Odense's pavilion is built up around the surrounding pavilions and from the 's famous bridge across the neighbouring river that When Shanghai hosts World Expo 2010, papercutting “The Sun Face”. The sun's runs through the exhibition grounds. the people of China will be able to see face itself is an open space that can be with their own eyes, a city where the used for events and theme weeks on Think! Choose! Live! citizens are crazy enough to ride their special subjects, technologies or The exhibition communicates to bicycles every day and are even proud of knowledge areas. everybody in a clear and factual way. It is it. At the exhibition the bicycle is an icon of spiced with a number of activities, screen Can Odense's message impress the the special mindset and consistency that displays and information stations to make Chinese, even though China is known for forms part of the of the communication more playful. more cyclists than any other nation. The Odense today. Quotations from Hans Christian reason for this is gas-guzzling cars, which Andersen are incorporated into the are gaining ground at a rapid pace in Radiating out from “The Sun Face” are a exhibition to support the bicycle theme. China. number of exhibition rooms, each with their own theme of cycling, city design, At its entrance, the exhibition features a Each day thousands of new cars come healthy lifestyle and eco-friendly thinking short introductory film about Odense and

6 cycling starts in childhood, and that -friendly with cycle paths, pumps and cycling is a lifestyle and not a necessity parking. Efforts have also been targeted at for Danish people. improving safety and reducing the Cycling is a natural part of everyday life number of accidents. In addition Odense and everybody cycles; visitors will gain an has run many campaigns to make people impression of this from images of cycling aware of the many new initiatives and the postmen, police officers, taxi, etc. benefits of cycling for adults and children alike. These three invitations present a number of stories ranging from the more serious The foundations for encouraging more long-term planning to personal choice cycling have thus been laid, and so the and decision, lifestyle-oriented subjects, time has naturally come to shift the focus police officers and taxi. from the city to the citizens, because a city of bicycles is nothing without More than bicycles cyclists. The great challenge is to The bicycle is used to communicate what maintain, motivate and change mobility Odense can offer in terms of patterns so that even more people choose sustainability and environment. The a bicycle instead of a car for the benefit bicycle is the most sustainable means of of both health and the environment. transport, it is inexpensive, good for health, and it helps improve accessibility Odense Cycle City has thus changed its in the city and reduces CO2 emissions. name to the City of Cyclists. The vision The city of Odense has made major is that Odense becomes the place where environmental efforts for many years, and cyclists thrive the most because the city which presents the city and island in a number of areas Odense has been a makes it easier, safer and more as seen from a bicycle. pioneering city both nationally and comfortable to ride a bicycle. internationally. The exhibition then divides into three themes, which are also invitations: Think! Facts on the City of Cyclists Choose! Live! In Odense cycling is a very strong symbol, because many citizens ride a Think! explores how to design a modern bicycle to work, to school or to spare city with continious consideration for the time activities every day. Over the last 10 environment and accessibility. Using years, Odense has been promoting cycling photos and short texts, it presents and designing the city to be bicycle- examples of bicycle parks, types of cycle path and bicycles to suit every need. Think! demonstrates how to design a city to cater for cyclists, while offering cyclists solutions that give them the opportunity to continue cycling throughout life for the benefit of both their health and the environment.

Choose! shows how safety, fashion and health can be combined through innovative design and creative solutions. Photos and short texts show examples of cycle helmets (design), magnet lamps, and the sport and exercise aspects of cycling. Choose! aims to show that design and functionality do not have to be compromised to ensure safe cycling.

Live! invites visitors into the Danish culture, where the bicycle has become a permanent and integral part of both Exhibition Concept and Design: Kvorning Design and Communication - www.kvorning.com working and private life. Through visuals and text bites, visitors will see how

7 8 9 THE CITIES OF THE saving the city 90,000 tons of CO2 distinct with the upper and middle classes emissions annually. But there are many living in the city's central areas, while the FUTURE ARE PEOPLE- more benefits to be gained from focusing poor segment of the population is FRIENDLY CITIES on bicycles than a green profile. Cities of generally relegated to informal settlements bicycles are very much people-friendly on the city's periphery. In the bicycle A humanistic, people-friendly city is first cities, and city planning that considers strategy that Gehl Architects have and foremost an accessible city, where pedestrians and cyclists will form a prepared, this problem is tackled via a mobility is possible for all. Many cities today are plagued by traffic congestion, significant contribution to the humanistic comprehensive cycle path network which and in densely populated city areas the city of the future. Gehl Architects have aims to create mobility through otherwise fastest way of getting around is often on helped to promote this development in a closed areas and thus enable different a bicycle, which is a highly efficient number of the world's metropolises. social groups to interact. means of transport. People-friendly cities require mobility A well-developed cycle path network can By Louise Kielgast, Gehl Architects for all also help social inclusion across age A humanistic, people-friendly city is first groups. Even in very wealthy cities, large A steadily growing number of cities and foremost an accessible city where groups of people such as children, young around the world are eager to become mobility is possible for all. Many cities people and the elderly are severely limited cities of bicycles, as part of an overall today are plagued by traffic congestion, in their mobility because the city is strategy on sustainable development and and in densely populated city areas the designed for cars – a means of transport the desire to become green cities. The fastest way of getting around is often on a that they cannot use. Cities that are development of cycle path networks that bicycle, which is a highly efficient means designed for cars are also characterised by can supplement the public transport of transport. In Copenhagen, a survey has large distances and many obstacles which system also makes a significant shown that the majority of cyclists choose hamper movement on foot and by contribution to reducing CO2 emissions – this means of transport because they want bicycle. Improving conditions for in Copenhagen for example, cyclists are to get quickly to their destination, and pedestrians and cyclists ensures that a lot that this is one of the most important more people can move around in the city. reasons why they use a bicycle instead of In some of the world's metropolises, the a car. As an efficient means of transport distances are so large that a well- the bicycle is also becoming popular developed cycle path network is elsewhere in the world, including Mexico insufficient to ensure mobility for all. City – one of the cities worst affected by This is a challenge not only in Mexico traffic congestion. Traffic congestion City but also in Beijing. Since 2008 Gehl represents a major economic problem Architects has advised the Planning because of the many working hours lost Institute on how to provide more people- each day from sitting in traffic jams. The friendly city planning. In this instance, a average speed of cars in Mexico City is 4 bicycle strategy must be supported by and kph in the rush hour, while bicycles have built up around a public transport a comparative average speed of 10 kph. system. As part of alleviating the major traffic problems and generally creating a better A sustainable and people-friendly city – public environment in the city, local how? government has chosen to prepare a A city of bicycles naturally needs the right bicycle strategy in collaboration with the infrastructure including cycle paths and National Autonomous University of bicycle parking, but also a number of Mexico and Gehl Architects. communication initiatives such as Besides being an efficient means of campaigns to promote cycling, educating transport in terms of time, a bicycle is children and special initiatives targeted at also affordable. Unlike cars, even the groups who do not normally cycle. Such poorest segment of the population can initiatives are important in building a generally afford one. Planning a bicycle- bicycle culture in cities where it is friendly city thus helps create a more otherwise absent. socially inclusive and socially just city where large groups of people are not It is also important to create a quality of excluded from moving around in the city. urban environment that makes it This social inclusion can be put into attractive to move around both on foot practice in several ways. and by bicycle. This is a self-perpetuating Jan Gehl is a Danish architect and urban design process since the presence of pedestrians consultant. The bicycle as social integration and cyclists significantly contributes to In Mexico City, spatial segregation is very the life of the city and thereby its

10 11 attraction. These are significant principles that can many bicycles which still dominate street be used all over the world, but different life are considered a relic of the past and In contrast to motorists, cyclists and cities naturally need different strategies an aesthetic blight on the urban pedestrians share the characteristic of and initiatives. landscape. Local government is moving at a moderate pace, making them nevertheless promoting cycling as a visible in the cityscape. Cyclists are also World metropolises take the important necessary and sustainable activity in flexible in the sense that they can quickly first steps relation to the city's progress, which can shift from being cyclists to being In New York City a general upgrading of help ease the enormous traffic problems pedestrians. This creates the conditions the public environment has had high that have arisen in the last 10 years. The for people to see and meet each other in priority. As part of the city's 20 year aim is that bicycles primarily function as the city. It is equally important to vision “PlanNYC for a greener and greater a supplement to a well-developed public highlight that both cyclists and New York”, Gehl Architects has advised transport system. pedestrians are physically present in the the city on preparing the “World Class public spaces – in contrast to motorists Streets” strategy, which involves the With consultancy from Gehl Architects, who are essentially isolated from their conversion of a number of public spaces Melbourne has chosen to promote and physical settings. But the desire to move and a plan for a comprehensive cycle path strengthen urban life, and here around in a city on foot or by bicycle network. A number of pilot projects have “Copenhagen” cycle paths are just one of does not come by itself, and must be been carried out to facilitate new ways of many initiatives. This effort has produced supported by a people-friendly urban thinking about and planning the city's significant results in the last 5-10 years, environment. public spaces. where the city has flourished and built a strong and lively city centre. Pedestrians and cyclists are exposed to all Acknowledging that it has no strong sorts of weather – sun, wind and rain – and bicycle culture at present, Mexico City Different facets of the same issue to the extent possible, these conditions has chosen to prepare different strategies Thinking of the city of bicycles as one must be incorporated into the planning for different target groups in a contribution among many which are of sidewalks and cycle paths. In addition, collaboration that involves the intended to promote an attractive urban presence in and movement around a city municipality and the National environment, has turned out to be highly must be encouraged by creating Autonomous University of Mexico. effective: the city of bicycles, the interesting and involving urban In Beijing, the problem is in a way pedestrian city, the healthy city, the environments. Long, monotonous reversed. It has a deeply embedded attractive city and the acessible city are all stretches have to be broken down into bicycle culture, but the problem is that it facets of the same issue. Planning for smaller sections and offer details that can is considered opposed to the country's pedestrians and cyclists is thus an obvious be registered at head height, such as desire for progress and growth. In China's place to start in order to create a interesting features at ground floor level. future scenarios, the car is seen as an sustainable and people-friendly city. important symbol of progress, while the

”Copenhagen style” cycle path in Melbourne, Australia. A path next to the sidewalk separated from the moving traffic by parked cars and a buffer zone for opening of car doors. Photo: Simon Goddard

12 13 CYCLING TO has carried out with great success for a number of years. This shows some of the KINDERGARDEN strength of the Danish bicycle culture: we get surprised if people cannot ride a Cycling is such an ingrained part of Danish culture that we hardly think bicycle. about it. Most children can cycle by the time they start school. But innovative Three year old children on two wheels thinking is still needed – even in a cycling Bicycle training in an ordinary Danish country like Denmark. family starts when a child is between three and six years old. By that time, the By Lotte Ruby, Danish Cyclists child has already been pedalling around Federation and Camilla Liv Andersen, on a three wheeler for a while and in The Danish Cancer Society recent years often also on a training bike, which is a play bike without pedals. But When people from abroad visit Denmark, ultimately pedal power and balance need they are often very surprised by our to be combined so the child learns to bicycle culture. How come you cycle so master a real bicycle. much? they ask. The short answer is: we The motivation in children is almost start early. always high, especially in families where the adults use a bicycle in their daily life – In Denmark, we see cycling as a basic cycling is very contagious. So it is of less Three years old and ready for two wheels. skill on par with walking and talking. importance that bicycle training methods Parents in Denmark teach their children to ride Most Danish children can cycle by the have been inherited through generations, bicycles at a young age. time they start school – perhaps not that they are home-taught and not always perfectly, but they can usually keep their completely educationally correct, because walking through the city with children as balance and steer a straight line. the result is almost always that the child little as to two years of age pedalling Children are thus not taught to ride a learns to cycle. And the moment when along next to them on small bicycles. bicycle at school – it is generally taken for the bicycle is finally under control, most Cargo bicycles with space for one or granted that they will be taught at home. children remember as one of their first several children have also become a status Schools can then start at a slightly higher great victories. symbol for the modern metropolitan level by teaching children about traffic It is also a day of joy for parents when family – even Crown Prince Frederik has rules and road safety, and participate in their children learn to cycle. In big cities one. campaigns which support good cycling in particular the cycling family has habits – for example “All children cycle”, become a symbol of energy and success in Taking care of the bicycle culture which the Danish Cyclists Federation recent years. You often see proud parents But the ingrained cycling culture in Denmark also has a drawback. Even here in the stronghold of cycling, we can see that car culture can easily threaten bicycle culture. In addition, children in some immigrant families do not learn to cycle at home, which also presents a challenge. It is thus important that we constantly work on strengthening the bicycle culture and making sure that everybody gets the opportunity to use a bicycle in their daily life. The list of good reasons for teaching children to cycle is long. We know that children who cycle on a daily basis have significantly better physical fitness than other children, and are a lot less at risk of developing serious lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity. Cycling also has a positive effect on learning ability, joy of life and social well-being. When they get a bit older, Bring your children along! A bicycle is the ideal way of getting around Denmark with more than children enjoy the freedom of cycling to 10,000 kilometres of cycle routes. school, to spare time activities and to visit friends.

14 becoming safe and confident cyclists. Cycling towards health Unfortunately not all children have a safe Everyday cycling is not only an enjoyable and car-free area to cycle in. They need way of commuting where people interact access to this – and if engaged adults enter with the city and each other, it is also one the play with challenges and ideas, and if of the most effective ways of promoting more children can play together, it gets good health. For example, cycling reduces even better. the risk of serious conditions such as heart disease, some forms of cancer, high A good start is an early start blood pressure, obesity and the most In 2008, the Danish Cyclists Federation common form of diabetes. published the book “Cykelleg”[Bicycle Play], a guide to how parents and day Health is one argument for making cities care centre staff can teach small children more bikeable, economy is another. The to cycle based on play – a project we are economic pay back of making a city more following up on with the establishment of bikeable is 2 – 7 times the invested a team of instructors with special amount. Savings primarily derive from knowledge of how to initiate fun games health costs such as less hospitalization involving cycling. and less work related sickness absence. Learning to ride a bicycle can already be Thus there are many health related started when children are two or three reasons for encouraging politicians, years old. At that age most children can architects and urban planners to design learn to ride a running bike – and then the bikeable urban areas in order to make the bicycle play can start. Cycle tag, bicycle bicycle the preferred mode of circus, skid mark competitions – the transportation - also for children. Personal transport habits are founded in opportunities are endless. childhood. Continued positive Training bikes have become very popular experiences of cycling can almost create in many Danish families and day care dependence on this healthy and green centres. Many children, parents and day means of transport, while children who care centre staff have quickly adopted the do not cycle are not likely to become idea of bicycle play, which bodes well for cyclists as adults. future generations of cyclists. Unfortunately the proportion of children As schoolchildren they will have no who cycle to school has declined in recent problems with learning traffic rules and decades. The Danish Cyclists Federation, participating in bicycle campaigns - and in collaboration with the , later safely cycle to school by themselves. is making great efforts to get day care centres and schools involved in the work of maintaining and strengthening the bicycle culture.

Cycling should be fun But how do we give our children positive cycling experiences? Play is always a good place to start. We adults can quickly start focusing on rules and technique, but if you give children bicycles and a safe area to cycle in, wonderful things start happening. Children immediately start playing on bicycles – they cycle quickly, they brake, they cycle slowly around in small circles, stand up on the pedals, perhaps try to lift the front wheel off the ground, cycle without their hands on the handlebars or with their feet on the handlebars. This is how children slowly become one with their bicycles – and that is the first step to Playing on bikes is a wonderful outdoor activity. Here a whole kindergarden is playing in the sunlight of the early spring.

15 16 CYCLING IN From A to B First of all you need to make cycling While many guests in the Danish capital competitive and safe, and a great point of COPENHAGEN - THE seem to think that Copenhageners must departure is having city planners armed EASY WAY be really concerned with the environment with political will who make access for since so many use a bike, it’s just not the bicycles in public spaces a priority. In Every morning at around 7am reason why Copenhageners ride. Many Copenhagen there is a coherent network Copenhagen comes to life. Men in Copenhageners are of course focused on of segregated lanes designated as cycle business suits, women fashionably environmental issues but, when asked, dressed in the latest styles down to tracks in all city areas. That means you their high heel shoes and parents only 1 per cent of Copenhageners can ride from one part of the city to carrying their children in a cargo bike all mention it as the main reason. another almost without leaving the cycle hop on their bikes and get off to work or track, which in most cases also ensures school. Cycling is the preferred means of less travel time than going by car or bus. transport because it’s the quickest and By Lasse Lindholm, City of Copenhagen easiest way to get around town. It’s the Surfing green waves and snow glue that keeps our lives together – However, you also have more low Actually, 37 per cent of everybody allowing us to connect our everyday tasks hanging fruit to pick – in terms of working or studying in Copenhagen in a smooth manner. investment. Two good examples from prefers the bike in the morning - and the While this tells us a bit about the Copenhagen are the green waves for equivalent number of people living in Copenhagener mindset it also cyclists and the snow removal policy. Copenhagen is as high as 55 per cent. demonstrates that given the right support, That makes cycling the most popular cities around the world can be modelled Previously the traffic lights in means of transport and 1.2 million to be more sustainable. Copenhagen were coordinated for cars. kilometres are covered daily by cyclists in Now they’ve been adjusted to favour the city, where cycle tracks are an Creating a city of cyclists cyclists along many main traffic arteries. integrated part of the traffic design. But how do you create a city of cyclists? This means that at a speed of 20 kph,

A child is easily transported in a cargo bike in downtown Copenhagen.

17 cyclists can surf a wave of green traffic Performing over the long haul has been lights through the city without putting a the essence in the Danish capital. foot down. Efficient for car drivers? No. Copenhagen – as a city of cyclists – wasn’t But definitely an advantage for cycling designed and constructed overnight. It citizens. has been in the making for decades and the consistency in prioritizing cyclists on Should it snow in winter, city policy the street scene goes a long way to mandates that snow be removed from the explaining why there are more bikes than cycle tracks before it is cleared from the citizens in Copenhagen today. car lanes – with the exception of car lanes on the four largest roads, which are Copenhagen to host global conference cleared at the same time as the cycle on cycling in 2010 tracks. This top priority helps explain Velo-city Global is the first conference to why 80 per cent of Copenhagen cyclists bring together cycle experts and still choose bikes in January. professionals from all over the world in Copenhagen. The European Cyclists’ Perception is (also) reality Federation has named Copenhagen as Creating viable infrastructure and policies host city because of its strong cycling is important, but these are only some of tradition and because it will be possible the elements in developing a more for participants – with their own eyes – to sustainable and living city. As long as the see that with continued focus, cycling can common understanding of mobility is achieve a large market share. Copenhagen connected to the concept of driving a car, shows that growth in the number of the road towards sustainable urban cyclists can occur at the same time as mobility through cycling will not be an economic growth and a high quality of By going global for the first time, the easy one. Hence part of the work is also life. conference is celebrating 30 years of Velo- to change public perception of which city conferences held by the European kinds of mobility carry the greatest From 22 to 25 June the conference will Cyclists’ Federation and the hosting cities. benefits for both citizen and society. highlight the bicycle’s potential to Fortunately cycling leaves plenty of facts enhance quality of life around the world on the advocate’s side – to be used in and to help solve global challenges such For further information campaigns and other communication as congestion, obesity and climate change. www.kk.dk/cityofcyclists www.velo-city2010.com activities.

Easy mobility seems to be the key to achieving high numbers of cyclists in the city centre.

18 HOW DENMARK BECAME A CYCLING NATION

In the 1960s, cars were threatening to displace bicycles in the main Danish cities. But the oil crisis, the environmental movement and a couple of controversial road projects reversed the trend. This is however just part of the story behind why Danes still cycle so much.

By Lotte Ruby, Danish Cyclists Federation

Is it possible to cycle in your city? Is it safe? Is it even attractive? If you can answer yes to all three questions, then the cycling culture in your city has good expectations for growth. But often the answers are in the negative, and then the next question is: how did this come about? The answer lies in a city's historical development, because surprisingly many of the major cities that today are packed with cars actually have a past as cities of bicycles. A journey back into Denmark's history shows how and why Copenhagen and other Danish cities have managed to In the 1930s bicycles took up quite a lot of space on the street scene. maintain a flourishing bicycle culture. The bicycle was invented in the latter half of the 1800s. The first bicycles were quite primitive and somewhat awkward to ride. classes cycled on a large scale and several inhabitants and tourists alike are car-free Nonetheless they soon became the big professions also adopted the bicycle – areas, but in the 1960s they were fashion craze – especially among young today cycling postmen and home helpers characterised by dense traffic and car men in high society. Bicycles were first are still a permanent part of street life. parks. Nyhavn, Strøget and Langelinie are used for sport and recreation, but in the The bicycles' first heyday lasted for half a just some examples. late 1800s some more practical types of century until around 1960, when the Until the 1960s, Copenhagen's history bicycles gradually came into the market, increasing standard of living slowly but unfolded in parallel with developments in and the general public, who otherwise surely made car ownership possible for many other western metropolises. But had poor access to transport, quickly more and more families. That then a number of things happened which adopted them. development was welcomed because cars made Copenhagen and several other and single-family houses were vigorous major Danish cities depart from the Freedom for all symbols that the depression of the 1930s beaten track. With the bicycle, ordinary men and and the darkness of World War 2 had During the 1960s it became increasingly women suddenly gained much more lifted, and that a brighter future lay difficult to turn a blind eye to the many freedom of movement. The bicycle was ahead. traffic accidents and the growing their ticket out of the inner city's pollution problem. Copenhagen was no cramped tenement houses and into the Decades of headwind longer the city of bicycles that most clean air of the rapidly growing suburbs. But what is a brighter future? The Danes knew and loved, and it upset a lot In a Danish context, the bicycle has been multitude of cars brought not only of people. inextricably linked with freedom ever prosperity but also pollution, congestion For more than half a century, bicycles since. and traffic accidents. It can be an eye had steered their way into the core of Photographs of urban scenes from the opener to see photographs from Danish self-perception through the visual 1930s clearly show how Danish cities Copenhagen in the 1960s. Many of the arts, poetry and music. The cheerful became cities of bicycles in the first half areas now treasured by the city's spinning of the wheels and the summery of the 1900s. People from all social image of a blonde haired girl cycling

19 through the town – what was the city Out of this realisation grew the Danish and health, and in recent years cycling without this? At the same time the model with its extended network of cycle has actually become a symbol of personal budding environmental movement and lanes along the roads, which continues to energy. The bicycle has become the oil crisis greatly helped to shake the be further developed. ultramodern again, aided by societal dust off cycling culture, which in the In the last 10 years, new challenges have development, successful political 1970s again began to appear in a positive emerged. In Denmark, as in other initiatives and conscious marketing. light. countries, there is a desire to improve The three largest Danish cities – public health and combat climate change. Copenhagen, Århus and Odense – have all The Danish model In Copenhagen and several other Danish carried out large branding campaigns that From the 1970s to the 1980s, several cities it has led to an intensified effort to put cyclists in a positive light on conflicts arose between bicycle and car maintain and strengthen cycling culture. advertising billboards, on the internet and interests in Danish cities. One example by actively including cyclists in new was the wave of popular protests which The bicycle is an additional choice bicycle projects. The result is an followed in the wake of a proposal from Cycling – especially in a wealthy country increasing number of cyclists and cleaner, the Copenhagen authorities to establish a like Denmark – is for most an active healthier and more lively cities. motorway across the lakes which separate additional choice which can easily change. the inner city of olden times from the So the only way forward is to make it Today the vision of a pleasant city is more recent suburban districts. There was safe, easy and attractive to cycle, and that different to that of the 1960s. We all an enormous outcry because, then as does not happen solely by changing the want to make space for progress and now, the lakes were some of the city's infrastructure. development. But progress and loveliest open spaces. development in the modern metropolis Gradually it became clear to most people In Denmark there is a strong tradition for depends on whether we manage to make that the solution to the problems had to people from all strata of society to cycle. it a place where people want to live. be city planning that gave space to cars, cities. Most Danes associate the bicycle bicycles, pedestrians and public transport. with positive values such as freedom and

Summer girls riding their bikes in the 1950s Copenhagen

20 21 DANISH DESIGN AND bicycles and bicycle frames that are sold light from Reelight. With Reelight, or transferred in Denmark must be cyclists always have lights on their INNOVATION FOR marked with a unique frame number bicycles – day and night. The light is based CYCLISTS stamped into the frame. So if you are on the electrodynamic induction principle unfortunate enough to have your bicycle and operates via two magnets mounted If cycling is to become the modern stolen, you can state the frame number to on the spokes with the light itself on the trendy choice for city transportation it is the police when you report the theft. If wheel hub. Electricity is induced when important to provide innovative high quality solutions for both the urban the theft is not reported and registered in the magnets pass the light. space and the cyclists themselves. In the police database, you cannot obtain Denmark different companies have compensation from your insurance The new magnet lights give safety and specialized in innovative cycling company. Receiving compensation for a freedom to cyclists. Safety because the solutions like designer bikes, cargo stolen bicycle is however also based on lights are fixed and always lit, and bikes, really smart helmets, battery-free bike lights and different cyclist service the condition that the bicycle was locked, freedom because cyclists never need to equipment for the urban space. with a frame mounted bicycle lock, which worry about remembering to switch on has been approved by the Danish the lights or change batteries. By Sara Fritzner, Reelight, and Marianne Institute for Informative Labelling, whose A comprehensive survey conducted by Weinreich, Veksø purpose is to promote voluntary use of Odense Bicycle City shows that fixed informative labelling of consumer goods magnet lights on bicycles reduce the Danish design is known the world over – and services for consumers. number of accidents by 32 per cent. In with architecture and furniture being two addition, fixed magnet lights increase of the areas in which we excel. The Battery-free bike lights and other safety cyclists' feeling of safety by up to 85 per equipment special characteristics of Danish design are cent. Making a bicycle a safe and easy choice clean and simple lines, but it has also helps promote cycling. One of the latest become synonymous with quality, The bike lights from Reelight are the and most innovative solutions in safety function, innovation and sustainability. only ones in Denmark that have been equipment is the patented battery-free approved by the Danish Institute for These values and principles also apply to cycling. Danish cyclists do not use a bicycle out of necessity, but because it is the quickest and easiest means of transport, and because cycling is a natural part of Danish culture and lifestyle.

Danish bicycles Most Danes cycle in their everyday clothes, on bicycles that are made to be used as a means of transport in cities and not for road racing or mountain biking. Like Danish furniture, Danish bicycles are designed in simple harmonious lines, without a lot of superfluous accessories. There are however many different types and models of bicycles to choose from depending on the cyclist's needs – classic bikes, city bikes, cargo bikes, etc. The leading Danish bicycle brands are Avenue, Principia, Kildemoes and Winther. But smaller brands like Von Bachhaus, Velorbis and Biomega are also succesful. Danish cargo bikes like Nihola, Christiania Bikes and Trio Bike are also becoming popular around the world.

The Danish frame number system Although the vast majority of Danes own a bicycle, many bicycles are stolen in Denmark. To make it easier to return a Brainwear for smart people. YAKKAY has developed a bicycle helmet where safety and style are stolen bicycle to its owner, the Danish united. Parliament adopted a law in 1948 that all

22 Every cyclist is counted in the street of Vestergade in the City of Odense.

Informative Labelling. This is the who want to feel safe and well-dressed at such as benches, waste bins and lighting, guarantee for cyclists that the product the same time. Yakkay has already won thus making bicycle parking part of a fulfills legal requirements, and that it has several design and innovation awards city's design expression. been tested and checked by an impartial including a Eurobike Award in 2009. authority. In addition, Reelight has won a Altogether there has been a major focus Eurobike Award for two years in Bicycle parking and cyclist service in the last 10 years on developing succession. The award is one of the most facilities different innovative solutions for cyclists. significant in the bicycle industry. Every cycling trip ends with a parked Odense municipality was for example the Innovation, safety and eco-friendliness bicycle, and bicycle parking is thus a first to install a bicycle counter from were the decisive criteria when the jury significant factor in promoting cycling. Veksø, which records how many cyclists chose to award the prize to Reelight. Without bicycle parking, lots of parked pass the counter each day. bicycles quickly become a mess that It can be difficult to get cyclists to use a makes the city hard to access for In addition to giving City of Odense helmet. The arguments for not using a pedestrians. important trend data on the number of helmet are numerous – it looks anything cyclists, installing equipment such as but elegant, it messes up the hair and is In the last 60-70 years, Danish companies cyclist counters sends a signal to cyclists awkward to carry around. have provided bicycle parking facilities that it makes a difference whether they A Danish manufacturer has taken up the with a focus on quality, design, cycle or drive a car. To the cyclists the challenge. Yakkay developed a helmet innovation and sustainability. Veksø for information about how many other where the requirements for safety and example uses leading architects and cyclists have previously passed a certain aesthetics are compatible and equal. designers to develop bicycle parking spot that day shows that they are not Yakkay helmets consist of a helmet and a solutions to ensure not only that the alone, and that they are part of a cover. The latter resembles a hat or a cap solutions are attractive-looking and community. and is available in countless designs. The functional, but are also connected in helmets have been developed for cyclists terms of design with other city fixtures

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