Cykelgader i Danmark - fra symbol til funktion: Hvordan planlægning, udformning og adfærd afgør cykelgadens succes

Abstract

Dette speciale undersøger, hvordan en cykelgade kan designes og planlægges, så den fungerer som et velfungerende trafikrum for cyklister. Udgangspunktet er, at der i Danmark findes omkring 100 cykelgader, men at disse varierer betydeligt i udformning, funktion og effekt. På trods af, at cykelgader er tiltænkt at styrke cyklisters position i trafikken, mangler der fortsat et fælles erfaringsgrundlag for, hvordan de bedst implementeres – både teknisk, trafikplanlægningsmæssigt og strategisk. I specialet defineres en velfungerende cykelgade ikke ud fra et fast ideal, men som en gade, der opfylder de succeskriterier, som er opsat i den konkrete kommunale kontekst. Det kan eksempelvis være at øge trygheden for cyklister, mindske biltrafikkens dominans, forbedre fremkommeligheden eller skabe en attraktiv rute gennem byen. Specialets ambition er derfor ikke at fastlægge én rigtig måde at designe cykelgader på, men snarere at pege på nogle gennemgående principper, der kan understøtte kommunernes arbejde og skabe de rette forudsætninger for, at cykelgader opnår deres formål. Projektet bygger på en flerstrenget metodisk tilgang, der kombinerer litteraturstudier, interviews med praktikere, analyse af skadestuedata fra Odense, observationer af adfærd på cykelgader i København samt kortlægning af eksisterende cykelgader i danske storbyer. Disse metoder supplerer hinanden og skaber et helhedsorienteret billede af både de fysiske, adfærdsmæssige og planlægningsmæssige forhold, der påvirker cykelgadens funktion. På baggrund af fundene opstilles otte design- og planlægningsprincipper, der kan fungere som pejlemærker for etableringen af cykelgader, der virker efter hensigten. Principperne handler blandt andet om at sikre tryghed for cyklister, begrænse biltrafikken, undgå halve løsninger, skabe genkendelighed og tænke cykelgaden som en integreret del af det samlede trafiknetværk. Specialet konkluderer, at cykelgader kun lykkes, når de understøttes af en tydelig strategi, et klart formål og et vejdesign, der bakker dette op. Hvis cykelgader i fremtiden skal bidrage meningsfuldt til at skabe mere cykelvenlige byer, kræver det politisk vilje, konsekvent planlægning og en mere tydelig regulering, der giver cyklister en reel prioritet i byens trafikrum.

Designing safe and efficient bicycle streets: A holistic approach to urban mobility Bicycle streets represent a pivotal element in promoting sustainable urban mobility by placing cyclists at the forefront of mixed-traffic environments. As cities strive to reduce reliance on motor vehicles, bicycle streets offer a promising solution for creating safe, economically efficient, and cyclist-friendly urban landscapes. This master's thesis delves into what makes a bicycle street truly well-functioning, emphasizing the interplay between design, user behavior, and safety outcomes. The study provides an overarching framework to guide the development of effective bicycle streets as part of urban mobility strategies. The research adopts a holistic approach, combining several methodologies to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Literature reviews were conducted to analyze existing knowledge and case studies of bicycle streets, both in Denmark and internationally. Accident data from Odense was scrutinized to identify trends and safety implications associated with different types of bicycle streets. Expert interviews with municipal planners, engineers, and stakeholders provided valuable insights into the practical challenges and opportunities in designing bicycle streets. Finally, behavioral observations on selected bicycle streets in Copenhagen offered real-time evidence of how design influences interactions between road users. Key findings from this study highlight that successful bicycle streets share several defining characteristics. First, clear prioritization of cyclists is essential, achieved through visual elements like colored asphalt and the strategic use of signage. Second, effective traffic calming measures, including reduced vehicle speeds and restricted motor vehicle access, are critical for fostering a safe environment. Third, the placement and integration of bicycle streets within the broader urban mobility network play a significant role in their success, ensuring connectivity and usability for cyclists. The research also highlights the limitations of current legislative frameworks, that’s why the study underscores the importance of political commitment and public awareness in ensuring the long-term success of bicycle streets. Political leaders must prioritize resources, laws and policies that align with sustainable mobility goals. Simultaneously, public awareness 6 campaigns are needed to educate road users about the rules of bicycle streets, fostering a culture of respect and understanding among all traffic participants. This thesis contributes to the discourse on urban mobility by offering actionable principles that guide planners, policymakers, and engineers in designing and implementing bicycle streets as integral components of urban mobility systems. By emphasizing a holistic understanding, the study moves beyond individual design elements to provide municipalities and practitioners with practical recommendations for creating bicycle streets that prioritize cycling as a sustainable mode of transport. The findings aim to shape the future development of bicycle streets, ensuring they fulfill their potential in fostering bike-friendly cities and promoting safe, efficient, and accessible urban environments.

A master thesis from Aalborg University

Cykelgader i Danmark - fra symbol til funktion: Hvordan planlægning, udformning og adfærd afgør cykelgadens succes

[Bicycle streets in Denmark - from symbol to function: How planning, design, and behavior determine the success of the bicycle street]