School in the Netherlands: traffic exam for children

Why wait until the driver’s licence? We can teach children safe cycling in school. In the Netherlands, the school children take a traffic exam on their bikes when they are just 11 years old. With a rite of passage on bicycles, are we surprised that the Netherlands is a cycling nation. The nature of a rite of passage is something to celebrate!

Cycling facts from the Netherlands where cycling is common

Australia comes in last in this country comparison of bicycle use as a percentage of total number of trips. This will be uncomfortable for many Australians, but Australia is certainly a LOW cycling country. Much will need to be done to encourage cycling in Australia. Few ride in Australia, so it is worth looking at a country where they do.

Section 2.3: Go Dutch: Propensity to Cycle Tool analysis

Men cycle more than women in the ACT: for every woman cycling, there are two men. In English speaking countries this is the norm, however, in Europe women and men are just as likely to ride. It could happen here, too.

Cycling safety: safety in numbers

Cycling is a cultural phenomenon. On a bike, we have a much closer connection to our environment and nature. Safety is a concern for many. In low cycling countries, it may be justified, but there is safety in numbers. The more people experience the joy of cycling, the safer it gets.