Popularity of bike riding in Australia

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Popularity of bike riding in Australia

Is it true that bike riding is on the increase in Australia? I am not really sure, I searched for answers and my findings are very contradictory. The Australian Bureau of Statistics claims yes. Whereas professor Rissel believes that bike riding has not really increased in Australia due to population growth, he explains less people are riding today than in 1986.

Map of Sydney's extensive bike lanes.

But really it would appear that bike riding has become more popular, Sydney city has invested  $30 million on bike lanes. I’m guessing taxpayers are also hoping that bike riding is on the increase.  

One factor that could definitely increase bike riding in Australia is more lax laws surrounding helmets; Australia is one of only two countries that has mandatory helmet laws.  Let’s face it helmets are ugly, and I am not the only one who thinks so, a recent survey found that people are more likely to ride bikes if wearing a helmet is not mandatory.  Research has shown that only 10% of bike riding head injuries are prevented by helmet use.

To read more about helmet laws and the effectiveness of helmets visit helmetfreedom.org.

Zoe