The Rising Popularity of Bicycles in the United States
U.S. bike sales are on the rise, and bicycling is becoming more and more popular across the nation. With the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, many cities are also making roadways more bicycle-friendly.
This fervor for cycling is reminiscent of the bike boom of the 1970s, which quickly fizzled out. Today’s boom, however, has been building steadily over the past few years and is more likely to stick around.
Below are a few reasons why:
Biking Is Healthy
Riding a bike is great for outdoor exercise and helps fight obesity, diabetes, and other health conditions. As technology makes many aspects of our lives more sedentary, people are looking for new ways to get their blood pumping and get outside.
Biking Is Good for the Environment
The global climate crisis is a hot topic in American culture and politics. Transportation is a huge source of greenhouse gas emissions, and bicycles help reduce pollution and keep our planet healthy.
Many climate activists champion cycling, and more and more people are replacing commutes and shorter drives with bike rides.
Biking Is Accessible
With e-bikes and bike rental companies, anyone can ride. You don’t have to own a bike to ride one, nor do you have to pedal the whole way. Biking is becoming more and more popular amongst older and younger people alike. Roads are becoming safer for kids, and riders over 60 are one of the fastest-growing populations of American bicyclists.
Policy and Infrastructure
Politicians and government organizations are responding well to a renewed interest in cycling. Many cities have taken important steps to make safe spaces for cyclists and pedestrians. Bike-friendly infrastructure includes bike lanes, bike parking, and signs and traffic lights that include and benefit cyclists. During COVID-19, some cities are even designating entire streets for bicyclists and pedestrians.
According to The Verge, some cities and communities feel:
“Returning to a car-dominated city after the pandemic lockdown is ‘out of the question.’”
Final Takeaways
Bicycles are having a moment in the sun, and they are unlikely to get less popular anytime soon. While people, policymakers, and city planners are making strides, riding a bike can still be dangerous on urban roadways.
Keep safety in mind when you ride, and if you are harmed by someone else’s negligence, know that Casey Law Offices, S.C. is always here for us.
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, please call us at (414) 272-5564 to discuss your case or tell us what happened online.
We are available 24/7 and ready to schedule a free case evaluation today.