Cycling in New York, London, Paris, and Berlin before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

This paper compares trends in cycling levels, cyclist demographics and cycling injury risk in New York, London, Paris and Berlin, before and after the COVID pandemic. We explore these trends in the context of changes to policy and infrastructure before, during, and after COVID. We based our analysis on data from published reports, open-data portals, government websites, travel surveys, and information provided by transport planners in each city. Cycling levels in NYC, London, Paris, and Berlin increased over the three decades prior to COVID (1990–2019). As a percentage of daily trips, bike mode share rose from 0.6% to 2.2% in New York, from 1.2% to 3.7% in London, from 0.4% to 5% in Paris, and from 7% to 18% in Berlin. Cycling rates have continued to increase since COVID. By 2023, bike mode shares had risen further to 3% in NYC, 4.5% in London, 11% in Paris, and 19% in Berlin. Cycling became safer in all four cities over the period 2005 to 2023, with declining per-trip fatality and injury rates. More and better cycling infrastructure has been a cornerstone of pro-cycling efforts, especially cycleways separated from motor vehicle traffic (protected bike lanes). Bike parking and bikesharing systems have expanded and improved. Car restrictions and traffic calming have complemented pro-bike measures, for example, using infrastructure and enforcement to reduce traffic volumes and speeds in residential neighborhoods. Long-term political support as well as cycling advocacy organizations have been critical to the introduction and continuation of pro-bike policies and the necessary financial investments.

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