Cycling Crash Course

As you are probably aware by now, cycling is an important mode of transport in the Netherlands. Utrecht ranks third in the Copenhagenize Index of bicycle-friendly cities in the world. However, there are some things you need to know before you enjoy this biking paradise!

Lesson 1: About your bike

Cycling in Utrecht can be daunting, but before you even start venturing out there are several things that your bike must have.

In this series of videos we will try to give you a crash course in cycling in Utrecht and what you need to succeed while you cycle to class (and everywhere else)! 

Lesson 2: Parking

Now that you have everything you need to cycle safely & legally, it’s time to park those bicycles!

Considering that there are 1.3 bicycles in average per person in The Netherlands (22.3 million bicycles in total ) and over 125.000 cyclists during the working day in Utrecht, finding a parking spot can always be a challenge (as can finding your bicycle afterwards).

Lesson 3: Rules of the road

After our first two videos you should now know how to equip and park your bike properly!

Next we will guide you to the rules of the road. Before hopping on your bike and pedaling away, there are few basic rules you should know. There are some signs and rules typical to only Dutch bike lanes you might not had come across before. Biking is an inseparable part of living in The Netherlands, therefore you should know how to do it right!

Some final tips

Before you arrive

  • Practise riding a bike before you get here. Riding a bike here has been described as participating in the Tour de France for normal riders, bringing up your skill level cannot hurt.
  • Do some further YouTube research on what to expect e.g. Utrecht Bike Rush Hour.

When you are here

  • Buy a used bike that does not look too new or expensive, as bike theft is rather common. Buying two very good locks is a must.
  • Buy detachable bike lights and a rain suit.
  • Stick to the bike paths.
  • Do not swerve or suddenly stop on a bike path.
  • Always lock your bikeframe and frontwheel, with at least two locks.
  • Add an eye-catching detail so your bike will stand out in a sea of parked bikes.