Before we discuss which country uses bicycles the most, let’s take a step back and ask ourselves: why use bicycles? Well, bicycles are environmentally friendly, they don’t produce emissions like cars do. Additionally, they’re a healthy form of transportation – you get to enjoy some much-needed exercise while getting from A to B. Finally, they’re affordable – no need for expensive gas or public transportation tickets. All of these reasons make bicycles a popular choice in many countries around the world. So which country uses them the most? Let’s find out!
The Netherlands – With over 22,000 kilometers of bike paths, the Netherlands is unsurprisingly the most bicycle-friendly country in the world.
The Netherlands is well-known for being an incredibly bike friendly nation. Not only are there 22,000 kilometers of dedicated paths but the culture itself is overwhelmingly supportive of cycling as a means of transport. The country boasts one of the highest rates of cycle ownership in the world, and biking infrastructure has been designed for all levels – from recreational cyclists to hardcore commuters. This assists with keeping traffic on the roads low and consequently reduces congestion and pollution – making riding a bike all around much more enjoyable. In addition, many businesses offer incentives such as bike reimbursements to their employees, further reinforcing its importance and popularity in this great nation.
Denmark – Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is home to a large number of cyclists – over 36% of residents commute to work or school by bike!
Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen stands out as an amazing example of a world city embracing cycling as its primary mode of transport. With over 36% of the population commuting to work or school by bike, this Scandinavian nation is pioneering sustainable transport and providing an example to the rest of Europe and the world. Cycling in Copenhagen is made easy, with an expansive network of dedicated cycle lanes crossing bridges, stacked paths for rush hour cyclists, free bikes for short trips across the city and even bicycle traffic signals that change in coordination with pedestrians. This easy access has led to great improvements in public health and environmental sustainability for Denmark’s capital and beyond.
Germany – In Germany, there are more bicycles than cars! In fact, there are an estimated 62 million bicycles in the country.
Germany is often seen as a groundbreaking nation when it comes to innovation in the transport space. With cities like Munich and Hamburg increasingly focusing on sustainable modes of transportation, it should come as no surprise that there are more bicycles than cars in the country! In fact, Germans own an estimated 62 million bicycles – enough for almost every person in the nation. Fortunately for its citizens, Germany has some fantastic infrastructure for cyclists, ranging from bike lanes on main roads to vast networks of off-road trails. From bustling metropolises to quaint rural villages, Germany’s commitment towards cycling is evident across the country.
China – China has the largest population in the world and also has the most cyclists – an estimated 450 million people ride bikes regularly in China.
China, with a population of over 1.4 billion people and nearly 450 million cyclists, is easily one of the most populated countries in the world. It’s not surprising that coursework writing often focuses on such topics as economics and urban development, which are heavily influenced by China’s large population. Bicycle lanes sprout up in cities around China due to the sheer number of cyclists using them. With increasing concerns about air pollution and public health, Chinese cities are investing more money into the cycling infrastructure which provides people with a convenient and affordable way to navigate their home cities. Additionally, this encourages other elements of sustainable transportation such as carpooling through bike sharing programs. Overall, China is embracing cycling as an environmentally-friendly mode of transportation that also keeps citizens healthy and active.
Japan – Japan is known for its crowded cities and lack of space, so it’s no surprise that many Japanese people opt to cycle instead of drive.
In many parts of Japan, cities are densely populated and high-rise buildings line the streets. This means that the roads can become very congested and space is precious. Although it might seem counterintuitive, Japanese people understand that cycling is a great solution to the lack of space problem. Indeed, by opting to cycle rather than drive, they not only save time thanks to fewer traffic jams but also create more space for other activities in urban areas. Furthermore, cycling is far better for their physical and mental health than sitting in a car in rush hour traffic. As such, it is no surprise that an increasing number of Japanese people are choosing to explore their cities on two wheels instead of four!
If you’re looking for a country that’s friendly to cyclists, you can’t go wrong with any of the five countries on this list. With large populations and dense cities, these countries have made biking a priority – and it shows! If you’re planning a trip overseas, be sure to pack your helmet and enjoy the ride.
