Copenhagen’s take on bicycles
Queen’s hit song from 1978 really encapsulates the mentality in Copenhagen. Driving a bicycle is related to culture and this is one thing Danes share with the Chinese. We simply LOVE biking! However, unlike Beijing and Shanghai, Copenhagen actually offers a safe environment to do so. It is always a big issue on the political agenda and Copenhagen has dedicated about 340 km to bicycling lanes. These facts ensure that you can enjoy Copenhagen to the fullest, in a care-free, environmentally friendly atmosphere using a healthy mode of transportation.
Since the 1890s biking has had a major impact on how the broad majority of the population of Copenhagen moved around conveniently from one place to another. In the beginning bicycles were mainly acquired by the upper middle class (those who could afford to buy one for passing the time), but soon the general public discovered the advantages of having one. From 1920-50 Copenhagen city was dominated by bicycles and for good reasons, biking was, and for that matter still is, an easy way of maneuvering about in a big city without having to rely on public transportation. On top of this, it is cheap and surprisingly a great way of transporting goods. You will often see Copenhageners cycle with everything from groceries to children using a built-in box in front for all kinds of “stuff.”
During the occupation in the Second World War the bicycle continued to be the main form of transportation in Copenhagen due to a restricted coupon system where it was difficult to claim gasoline. Then in the 50s post-war time things certainly changed. The car took over the hype of biking but only until the big oil crisis hit in the 70s when it became ever so popular to bicycle again. A trend that is here to stay since cyclists actually make up approximately 30 percent of the central Copenhagen traffic!
Copenhagen aims to be recognized as The environmentally friendly metropolis and to set an example to the rest of the world. It sure helps that the city is hosting the crucial UN Summit on Climate Change in 2009 in order to get finances moving towards spending on bicycling. Serious thoughts are put into creating cycle lanes where bicycles will get preference over cars at traffic lights. One major route is already operating in the area of “Nørrebro” and more “green light routes” will follow. This is all being done in order to make it even more attractive for people to choose to use their bikes instead of driving their cars. And this is not only being done in an effort to reduce the congestion of cars on the road, but also to ensure a less noise-polluted capitol, where it’s a joy to walk in the many recreational areas. Talking urban planning; it is also worth noticing a few alternatives have been created for cyclists to cross over the many canals of Copenhagen. You can actually find small bridges dedicated to pedestrians and peddlers only!
Nothing should be holding you back now from taking a bike ride around Copenhagen city. The sheer size, accessibility of bike paths and the flatness of the landscape should provide even more motivation to do so. Enjoy!
May 2008