Cycle-unfriendly

Describes an environment, infrastructure, or policy that discourages or hinders the use of bicycles as a mode of transportation. This can manifest in various ways, including a lack of dedicated cycling infrastructure (such as bike lanes or paths), dangerous road conditions (e.g., narrow lanes, high traffic speeds, potholes), inadequate bicycle parking, or regulations that make cycling inconvenient or unsafe. A cycle-unfriendly setting often prioritizes motor vehicle traffic and can lead to cyclists feeling vulnerable, unsafe, or otherwise disinclined to use their bikes for commuting or leisure. It encompasses various aspects of the built environment, including road design, public transportation integration, and urban planning. It therefore has an impact on both cyclist safety and the overall sustainability of a society.

Cycle-unfriendly meaning with examples

• The city's lack of bike lanes and the prevalence of fast-moving traffic make it a cycle-unfriendly environment. Many cyclists avoid these busy roads. Coupled with this, the lack of safe bike parking at the train station further discourages cycling. To address this, improvements such as more bike lanes, lower speed limits, and better integration with public transport are necessary to attract more cyclists and make cycling a viable means of transport.
• The design of the new housing estate is cycle-unfriendly, with wide, car-dominated streets that lack pedestrian and bike-friendly elements. There are no dedicated bike lanes or safe routes, and many residents are fearful of letting their children cycle on the roads. Therefore, the planning board is reconsidering the project, calling for revisions that prioritize active transport infrastructure to improve safety and encourage sustainable travel options.
• The government's policies are considered cycle-unfriendly, with minimal investment in cycling infrastructure compared to investment in roads and highways. Coupled with this, many tax breaks are geared to motor vehicle owners, making cycling a more expensive option in the long run. Advocacy groups are petitioning for more public funding, tax incentives, and education campaigns to promote cycling as a viable and sustainable alternative.
• The long-term effects of a cycle-unfriendly environment are now clear. Air pollution is high, traffic congestion is unbearable, and the city's population faces increased health risks. The authorities, therefore, are considering implementing new traffic rules. Moreover, they are also assessing ways to increase the uptake of e-bikes. These solutions will encourage more people to cycle and reduce the city's environmental footprint.
• Despite an increasing desire for sustainable mobility, many employers have set their policies in a cycle-unfriendly manner. Staff will have to rely on car parking spaces. There is no secure storage space for bikes and it is unsafe to cycle in the immediate vicinity. Without changes to employer policies and workplace infrastructure, cycling is often an afterthought. This in turn decreases employees' health and productivity and increases their carbon footprint.