[images: sharetheroad.co.uk & copenhagencyclechic.com]

I think it’s a shame that a city as modern as London doesn’t have better facilities for bicyclists. It would be amazing to cycle around London, like you can do in many other European capital cities, like Copenhagen and most recently, Paris.  In London, you have to don a neon vest and set out in packs dodging buses and cars during rush hour. AND, it’s an offence to cycle on the sidewalks. My friend got warned and fined because she didn’t know this law (she is French as well).

All isn’t lost however, because the London Cycling Campaign is campaigning for better infrastructure for cyclists in London. For example, they push for more bicycle facilities, bicycle lanes and parking space for cycles, more road space for bicycles, safer conditions for bicyclists, and special cycling routes for bicyclists. I think it’s a great idea and I support it wholeheartedly.

In Paris, there’s a program called the Vélib’, which basically means “freedom bike,” which has bikes all over the city you can hire for 30 mins for free and then pay for after that time. It’s a great way to get exercise; they just implemented the system in 2007, and it’s been a big success.  Dublin is following in their footsteps, and cities like Oslo, Copenhagen and Amsterdam already have the infrastructure in place.

I think we can make London a world-class cycling city. It has definite benefits, from health (which I am always interested in) to decreased pollution and a greener city, and it is actually a faster way to get around because of all the congested traffic in London.

Let’s make it happen! I really think this is a great idea that can make London a better, safer, greener, healthier place to live!

Elodie xx