Why Cycle in Amsterdam but Not in London: Exploring the Differences

Amsterdam is renowned for its cycling culture, while London continues to face challenges when it comes to promoting cycling. This article explores the reasons behind the stark contrast and highlights the differing approaches to urban transport in these cities.

The Amsterdam Metropolitan Area vs. London Metropolitan Area

The Amsterdam metropolitan area is indeed smaller in population compared to London, but not in terms of land area. To visualize this, the Amsterdam Gemeente provides a tool where residents can compare the sizes of metropolitan regions. Despite being densely populated and smaller in terms of population, the land area of Amsterdam is comparable to that of London and even Hyderabad.

Netherlands, being a densely populated country, does not have a notably higher population density in Amsterdam than in London or Hyderabad. Hence, the perception that Amsterdam should be highly congested is somewhat misplaced. Amsterdam, with its focus on cycling infrastructure, manages to maintain a balance.

Amsterdam’s Commitment to Cycling

Amsterdam is dedicated to promoting cycling through the development of dedicated cycling routes. The city’s Strategic Plan for Sustainable Transport (2014-2020) aimed to increase the number of bicycle journeys within the city while reducing car usage. This was achieved through the establishment of fast-cycle-routes (snelfietsroutes), which are dedicated cycling paths designed to connect major residential areas to the city center.

An example of such a route is the one from Almere-Lelystad, a distance of approximately 35 kilometers. Despite the extensive land area of the metropolitan region, Amsterdam has consistently integrated cycling into its urban planning. This commitment is evident in the city’s continuous improvement of cycling infrastructure, which includes bike-sharing programs, dedicated lanes, and lockers for secure bike parking.

The Amsterdam Cycling Experience

Amsterdam is often referred to as a cycling paradise. The city is flat, almost entirely without hills, and is complemented by an extensive network of cycling lanes. The ubiquity of bicycle lanes and parking facilities, combined with the city’s canal network, makes car driving less necessary in urban areas. This natural inclination towards cycling is augmented by the city’s trams, which provide an additional mode of transport.

The London Cycling Dilemma

In contrast, London is a bustling metropolis with numerous hills, limited cycling lanes, and ongoing concerns about bike theft. The city has approximately 600 square miles of land area, similar to Amsterdam. However, the differences in urban planning and infrastructure have led to a less cycling-friendly environment.

Biking in London requires much more caution and can be more hazardous due to the lack of dedicated lanes and the presence of professional bike thieves. Despite these challenges, cycling remains a viable and efficient means of transportation, especially for long distances. The London Overground and Silverlink train networks allow cyclists to park their bikes on the train, creating a seamless transfer between two modes of transport.

Conclusion

While both Amsterdam and London face similar urban challenges, the approach to cycling infrastructure significantly impacts the overall experience for cyclists. Amsterdam’s commitment to cycling, coupled with its flat terrain and dense network of lanes, makes it an ideal destination for cyclists. In contrast, London’s more mountainous terrain and limited dedicated cycling lanes create a more challenging but still viable environment for cyclists who are willing to put in the effort.

Whether you choose Amsterdam or London, both cities offer unique cycling experiences, but the planning and infrastructure play a crucial role in the convenience and safety of these experiences.