Cycle-hostile

Cycle-hostile describes an environment, infrastructure, or policy that actively discourages, disadvantages, or endangers bicycle use. This can manifest through inadequate or non-existent bike lanes, dangerous road designs, lack of secure bike parking, car-centric planning, or discriminatory regulations. It signifies a landscape where cycling is made difficult, inconvenient, or unsafe compared to other modes of transportation, particularly motorized vehicles. cycle-hostile environments often prioritize automobile traffic, leading to increased pollution, congestion, and decreased opportunities for physical activity. The term encompasses a spectrum, from passive neglect of cyclists' needs to actively designed deterrents to bicycle use. The primary outcome is reduced cycling rates and increased reliance on cars.

Cycle-hostile meaning with examples

• The city's decision to widen roadways without incorporating protected bike lanes created a cycle-hostile environment. Cyclists are forced to compete with speeding cars, making daily commutes perilous and deterring new riders. This neglect impacts health, environment, and the overall urban experience. Promoting alternatives has become impossible with limited investments.
• The developers built a sprawling suburban area with no bike lanes and minimal sidewalks, resulting in a cycle-hostile zone. Residents are almost entirely reliant on cars for all travel, from shopping to recreation. The lack of safe cycling infrastructure fosters sedentary lifestyles and a greater environmental impact.
• The recent government policy of removing bike lanes to create more parking spaces is a blatant example of a cycle-hostile attitude. Cyclists feel ignored, and the initiative actively encourages a car-dependent society, promoting further congestion.
• The architecture of the downtown core prioritizes private automobile parking which further compounds the already cycle-hostile streets. The lack of bike racks, confusing street crossings and heavy traffic further dissuade potential riders.
• The lack of public transport links to local bike trails and the design of the roads leading there make them highly cycle-hostile. This, alongside car congestion, means more people opt to drive, which increases pollution and is a barrier to active travel.