We’re currently seeing a strong increase in the use of bicycles not only in the Netherlands, but throughout Europe. Stimulated by the construction of bicycle lanes, government subsidies, and special tax regulations, there has been a bicycle boom, especially when it comes to pedelecs and e-bikes. In short: more space is being made for cyclists.
Growth market
In 2018, more electric bicycles were sold in the Netherlands than city bikes. This increase marked an unprecedented development that has continued through to this year. The long, warm summers of recent years have encouraged people all over Europe to start cycling. Even when we look at the period before and after the corona crisis, this growth continues. As many other activities are now less accessible, a nice bike ride has only become more attractive. The reduced availability of public transport and the rules that have been put in place are also increasing the popularity of the bicycle.
Since more people are going on holiday close to home this year, we expect to see a further increase in bicycle use. Would you like to go cycling somewhere further afield? With mallorcacycling.nl, you can experience an adventurous cycling holiday in Mallorca.
Measures to promote cycling
We already mentioned that various measures to stimulate cycling have been and are still being implemented in many European countries. Here are some examples:
- ‘Bicycle highways’ have been created in the Netherlands, in areas such as Enschede.
- Budapest has created pop-up bike lanes.
- From May 2020, Brussels will have a priority zone for cyclists and pedestrians.
- In several British cities, cars are now prohibited in many streets.
- France grants each cyclist €50 to repair his or her bicycle.
- Italy has adopted a new law that makes a €500 subsidy available to every e-bike buyer.
- From 11 May 2020, the French government started offering reimbursements for cycling lessons. In addition, investments are being made in more public parking spaces for bicycles, and an existing program will cover the costs of commuting by bicycle.
- In the Paris region, 750 kilometers of cycle paths will be built for longer commutes. Three new bike paths will also be constructed along the city’s three busiest metro lines. By 2024, all streets will be bicycle friendly. This removes 72% of the parking spaces for cars, actively discouraging car use.
- In Milan, serious work is being done to convert what has been an automobile haven into a cycling paradise. The city of Milan has been struggling with air pollution from car emissions for years and hopes to address it in this way. The city council will also build 35 kilometers of bicycle lanes after the coronavirus lockdown.
- We expect more tax benefits across Europe to make bicycle leasing more attractive to employers and employees. This type of program has already met with success in Germany and Belgium.
Benefits of the bike
In these uncertain times, when there are many rules and restrictions imposed on public transport and carpooling, the bicycle is still a pleasant and reliable means of transport without extra rules. The bicycle always gets you to your destination, provided it is not too far away. Getting out in the fresh air also makes people happier and fitter, something that is extremely important, now more than ever, and should be encouraged.
Last but not least, the bicycle is a sustainable means of transport that doesn’t take up a lot of space. Not everyone can park a car at home, but a bicycle really fits anywhere. A bicycle is also easy to take with you on public transport.
Biking and translations
Here at Textcase we love biking as well. That’s why we’re happy to provide translations for two major clients in the cycling industry. Both Babboe and its sister company Carqon are among the European market leaders in e-bikes and the second largest when it comes to sales of bicycle parts and accessories: two very important players in this growth market.
Good translations also play an extremely important role in putting these companies on the map at an international level. Just like our customers, Textcase always ensures top quality work and super service. This means that the most important companies in this industry can be confident that our translations of their websites, product information, and other communications are the best they can be.
Do you have a business, and would you like to expand abroad? Do you see opportunities in an international growth sector, but have doubts because you don’t have the desired level of language fluency for your target market? Perhaps you’re already established abroad and you want to make sure that your text translations are 100% correct and executed by native speakers of the target language? Then you’ve come to the right place at Textcase. With our extensive network of native speakers, you’re always assured of the best translations. Would you like to know more about our services or request a free quote? Don’t hesitate to get in touch, we look forward to hearing from you!