cyclability

Cyclability refers to the ease and safety with which people can travel by bicycle in a given area. It is influenced by infrastructure, traffic conditions, topography, climate, and policy environment, and is a central concern in urban planning and transport strategy.

Key factors include network connectivity, traffic safety, and user comfort. Also important are supportive services such as secure bike parking, maintenance, bike-share access, and policy measures that affect enforcement, parking rules, and incentives that influence the practicality of cycling.

Infrastructure design emphasizes low-stress routes and protective facilities, such as protected bike lanes and well-designed intersections. Other elements include traffic calming on mixed streets, appropriate lighting, and clear wayfinding to reduce perceived risk and increase predictability for riders.

Measurement and planning use indicators such as Level of Traffic Stress, bicycle modal share, and network completeness, combining counts, crash data, and user surveys to assess cyclability. Cities may publish cyclability indices or maps to guide investment and prioritize improvements.

Benefits include reduced car dependence, health improvements, lower emissions, and greater mobility equity. Constraints include weather and topography, maintenance needs, funding limitations, and safety concerns that can deter potential riders.

Policy approaches seek a low-stress, connected network under a complete streets framework, with protected facilities, traffic calming, speed restrictions, and integration with public transit. Achieving cyclability often requires long-term planning, cross-agency coordination, and broad community engagement.