Howdy ,
One of the things I have noticed (1) in Germany is the number of people who ride bicycles, even in the middle of a really busy city. And as you know, I live in an area not famous (or set up (2)) for bikes!
It’s not just typical groups like sports people or younger people. I’ve seen everyone from the elderly (3) to young children pedalling (4) around.
But it's not only the cyclists themselves that catch my attention. It’s the bikes and their attachments, too.
For example, I’ve seen several models of bicycles with bins on the front for children to sit in and I’ve also seen little ‘trailers’ for children to sit in that you can attach behind a bike and pull along.
For slightly bigger children, there are seats that go behind the ‘driver’ that are long enough for two to sit on.
They are all fantastic ideas. Making riding possible, even for families with young children is perfect. It’s great for the health and well-being of the adult who rides the bike. And it’s better for the environment than many other forms of transport.
However, riding in the centre of a busy city is risky. I’m not sure if motorists look out for cyclists like they should. Bike lanes (5) on the side of the streets make things a bit safer, but it still must be scary, with so many large and fast vehicles rushing past you.
I have thought about getting a bicycle since I’ve been here, but it hasn’t happened yet. While I’d be quite happy to ride along trails by a river or in a forest, I think moving through the chaotic city streets would be frightening!
Although, quiet streets in a country town could be OK...
The other issue is repairs. I can change the tyre on a car, but I don’t know how to fix any bike problems.
It’s not to say I won’t get a bike, now I live where traffic isn't too crazy.
Let’s see how things go….
What are your thoughts - is it safe to ride bicycles on the streets here? Do you? Should I get a bike??
Happy cycling 🚲 (if that's your thing),
Andrea
(1) noticed - seen
(2) set up - organised, with all equipment and parts finished
(3) the elderly - a polite way to say 'old people'
(4) pedalling - moving pedals with your feet
(5) a bike lane is a section of a street for bikes only. A lane is any section of a street for vehicles to move in e.g. The road to my city is a four-lane highway.
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