Cycling for a Few or for Everyone: The Importance of Social Justice in Cycling Policy

In his article “The Importance of Bicyclist
Education,” Bjorn Haake, a professional
cycling trainer, criticizes the research
findings reported in our article “At the
Frontiers of Cycling” (Pucher and
Buehler, 2007). Our case study analysis
of cycling trends and policies in six cities
and three European countries concluded
that a multi-faceted approach is the most
effective way to encourage cycling. In
particular, Haake rejects our finding that
an integrated, comprehensive network of
well-maintained, well-designed cycling
facilities, such as bike paths and lanes, is
a key element in any package of policies
to promote cycling.