Inspired by Timezonesun and a standing invitation to join a buddy on his morning mountain bike rides I recently took the plunge back into the two wheeled world.  It’s 25 years since I raced the school bus to and from school so I was a little nervous, this was quickly replaced by burning quads, screaming lungs and a few wobbly moments dodging trees on the single tracks.

It appears I’m not alone in this cycle mania, here are a few interesting facts ahead of our cycling Christmas function.

CAN Cycling in New Zealand – Facts and Figures

Cycling is popular, safe, economical, responsible and healthy. These key facts and figures show why this is true in New Zealand. You can download the page below, giving the more detailed facts and figures.

o There are many cyclists. There are 1.3 million cyclists in New Zealand today (30% of the population), and of these, 750,000 are adults of voting age (26% of adults).

o Cycling is relatively safe. About 1 in 1,000 cyclists have road accidents compared to about 3 in 1,000 car drivers. Only 40% of cycling crashes are caused directly by the cyclist, with a smaller proportion by adult cyclists[1].

o Cycling more than pays its way. Urban cycle lanes and other facilities are partly paid for by rates, which cyclist pay, and partly through from petrol taxes which most cyclists pay as motorists. Through these sources, cyclists pay for roads whether they drive on them or not. Most cycling facilities are also needed because of the volume and risks of motor traffic.

o Cycling is responsible. Cyclists account for about 1% of traffic offences[2] only.

o Cycling is good for both cyclists and non-cyclists. Cycling counters the effects of obesity, respiratory and other health conditions[3]. Cycling decreases pollution and congestion, which total over $1 billion per year each in social and economic costs.[4]

Andy

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