Seville and Barcelona have been named among the 20 most bicycle-friendly cities in the world. Meanwhile, both cities feature beautiful architecture and dedicated cycle lanes, making a tour on a bicycle an absolute pleasure for visitors. Read on to find out more about this latest news.
Seville & Barcelona are among top bicycle-friendly cities
Many cities are trying to reduce their carbon footprint by encouraging citizens to ride a bicycle. Now, an announcement has been made, listing the 20 most bicycle-friendly cities in the world. For those traveling to Spain, it’s worth packing your bike and taking it along if you are visiting Barcelona or Seville.
The Spanish government made the announcement on June 15. Meanwhile, Sergio Vazquez Torrón, the president of Ineco, has presented a report titled “The Bicycle in the City.” The report was issued by the engineering consultancy firm, along with the Ministry of Transport, Mobility and the Urban Agenda.
The report forms part of a new knowledge and innovation space, Ineco Impulsa, which aims to periodically analyze mobility trends in the market. Meanwhile, it also aims to anticipate and transform the future of mobility and digital transformation with the aim of tackling the major social, economic and environmental challenges.
Possibilities of bicycle public transport
The first Ineco study takes an in-depth look at the possibilities of using bicycles as a mode of transport. Ineco analyzes the situation and the challenges facing the sector, in line with current public mobility. It then looks at the increased promotion of the bicycle as a regular means of transport.
What is interesting to note is that the report reveals that cities with the highest share of cycling, also have the highest ratios of public bicycles per resident. Obviously, there are many advantages to the use of bicycles. They are a sustainable, practical and fast option for urban mobility.
The cities provide access to bicycles to those who cannot afford one due to a lack of resources or space in their homes. Popular bike-share options allow for one-way journeys and are a flexible mode of public transport. Meanwhile, they also eliminate the perceived risk of bicycle theft for cyclists. More than anything, bicycles are acceptable as a regular means of public transport.
Increased interest in cycling in Spain
In the aftermath of the pandemic, cycling has increased in a number of cities, both in Spain and internationally. However, among the major cities in Spain, few have more than 2 km (1.2 mi) of designated cycle lanes per 10,000 residents. Only two Spanish cities, Seville and Barcelona, are ranked among the 20 most cycle-friendly cities.
It can only be hoped that other Spanish cities will take the example of Seville and Barcelona. Adding more dedicated cycle lanes throughout their streets, plus the option of free bicycle share will truly help. Moreover, the free bicycle share will also be an added attraction for tourists.