The Rise of the Netherlands as a Cycling Nation: A Deep Dive - Aug. 8, 2024
With 22 million bicycles for 17 million inhabitants, 32,000 kilometers of cycle paths, and the largest bicycle parking facilities in the world, the Netherlands is unquestionably the cycling country par excellence. However, the history of the Netherlands as a cycling nation did not begin as a matter of course but as a development resulting from various social, economic, and political factors.
In the 19th century, the Netherlands became acquainted with the first (walking) bicycles, but these were mainly seen as an eccentric hobby for the wealthy. It wasn't until the 1870s that the 'high wheeler' bicycle, with its large front wheel and small rear wheel, began to gain popularity, albeit mainly among the youth of affluent families. Compared to neighboring countries such as Great Britain, Belgium, and Germany, the Netherlands lagged behind in bicycle use.
The Rise of the Bicycle as a Means of Transport
The tide began to turn at the beginning of the 20th century when the General Dutch Cyclists' Union (ANWB) began to promote the bicycle as a means of transport for the masses. This, combined with improvements to the bicycle itself and the introduction of the 'granny bike,' made cycling more accessible to a wider audience. By 1910, the Netherlands was already the country with the highest bicycle use in the world.
Royals and Cycling
On July 20, 1898, the Algemeen Handelsblad quotes a foreign newspaper stating that the Dutch government has decided that Queen Wilhelmina should not cycle in public, 'with an eye to the future'.
Wilhelmina reluctantly accepts the restriction, because in the decades that follow, none of her subjects ever sees her on a bicycle - at least not in public spaces. It isn't until 1933 that she does so for the first time, with Katwijk having the honor. The residents watch in amazement.
Queen Wilhelmina also played a role in popularizing cycling in the Netherlands. Her personal preference for cycling and the accompanying media attention contributed to the normalization of cycling as an everyday means of transport among the Dutch population.
An iconic photo of the newly engaged Princess Juliana and Prince Bernhard on a tandem bike in the garden of Palace Noordeinde reinforced the image of the bicycle as a symbol of Dutch identity.
Provo's White Bicycle Plan
In the 1960s, the anarchist movement Provo launched the 'White Bicycle Plan' in Amsterdam, providing white bicycles for general use free of charge. Although the plan did not have a long life, it laid the foundation for the concept of shared bicycles and the subsequent rise of bike-sharing programs in the Netherlands.
The Role of the Bicycle during World War II
During World War II, the bicycle played a crucial role in the daily lives of the Dutch, especially due to fuel shortages. Both civilians and soldiers relied on bicycles for transportation, further anchoring the bicycle in Dutch society.
After the war, the automobile seemed poised to replace the bicycle, but this led to protests against large-scale urban renewals that favored cars. Action groups such as 'Stop the Child Murder' emphasized the importance of the bicycle as an environmentally friendly and healthy alternative.
Investments in Bicycle Infrastructure and Policy
In the 1970s and 1980s, the Dutch government began to seriously invest in bicycle infrastructure, significantly expanding the network of cycle paths. The 'Traffic and Transport Structure Plan' of 1980 recognized the importance of cycling and laid the groundwork for modern bicycle policy.
Modern Bicycle Culture and the OV-fiets
Today, the Netherlands continues to promote cycling as a sustainable, healthy, and practical mode of transportation. The introduction of the OV-fiets, a public transport bike and initiative of the Dutch Railways, has further encouraged bicycle use by offering rental bikes at train stations throughout the country. Additionally, the network of cycle paths in the Netherlands has continued to grow over the past decades, with thousands of kilometers of new cycle paths being built.
The Future of Cycling in the Netherlands
The bicycle is an integral part of the national transportation system and is a cultural symbol. With increasing attention to sustainability and health, the popularity of cycling appears to be on the rise. Recent developments in electric bicycles and the emergence of bike-sharing programs are evidence of ongoing innovation in Dutch cycling culture.
The future o cycling in the Netherlands looks promising, with continued investment in bicycle infrastructure, innovative mobility solutions, and a growing awareness of the benefits of cycling for individuals and society as a whole. As the ultimate cycling nation, the Netherlands will continue to strive for a healthy, sustainable, and bike-friendly future.