Corporate mobility is undergoing significant changes, with bike leasing emerging as an increasingly popular option for businesses. However, recent data from Ubike reveals an intriguing trend: companies located outside of Brussels show a higher adoption rate of bike leasing (cycling employees/total employees) compared to those based in the capital. This article delves into the reasons behind this disparity, examining the specific challenges faced in Brussels and the ongoing initiatives that could foster greater adoption of corporate cycling within the city.
While Brussels has relatively well-developed cycling infrastructure, the city faces unique challenges related to its high population density and heavy traffic. Nevertheless, important initiatives have been launched to improve and expand cycling infrastructure, aiming to promote cycling as a viable mode of transport.
The Good Move regional mobility plan aims to transform mobility in Brussels by reducing car trips by 25% by 2030. A key component of this plan is the enhancement of the cycling network, including the expansion of the Regional Cycling Routes (ICR). These routes are designed for medium to long-distance travel, connecting various municipalities in Brussels and linking with cycling networks in Flanders, facilitating cross-regional cycling trips.
One of the major projects underway is the development of true cycling highways. For example, a new route is being constructed to connect Place Bockstael in the north of Brussels to the Gare du Midi via the railway line 28. This project aims to provide continuous, secure cycling paths that better connect Brussels with its outskirts, thereby increasing the appeal of cycling for commuting.
Additionally, the Brussels-Capital Region has allocated a budget of €20 million for the construction of new cycling paths and the renovation of existing infrastructure. This project includes the creation of 21 km of new cycling paths by 2026, further enhancing the safety and convenience of cycling in the city.
These initiatives demonstrate a strong commitment from the Belgian government and Brussels authorities to support and encourage cycling by improving the necessary infrastructure. These efforts are expected to address some of the major barriers to cycling adoption in Brussels, making this mode of transport more attractive for residents and workers.
Another factor that may explain the higher adoption of bike leasing outside Brussels is the versatile use of bikes. In areas outside the capital, employees are not only more inclined to use bikes for commuting, but they also take advantage of the many parks and green spaces for personal activities, such as family outings or weekend rides. This flexibility enhances the perceived value of bike leasing, making it a more attractive option for businesses and their employees.
While areas outside Brussels may offer more natural spaces for varied cycling experiences, it’s important to remember that Brussels and its surroundings also provide numerous opportunities for cyclists to enjoy nature. For instance, the Sonian Forest, a vast green space covering 4,400 hectares, features several well-marked cycling routes, including a 47 km loop that passes through Bois de la Cambre, the Groenendael Arboretum, and continues to Hoeilaart and La Hulpe in Flanders and Wallonia.
Other Brussels parks, such as the Tervuren Park and the Cinquantenaire Park, also offer pleasant cycling routes, allowing cyclists to combine daily commutes with leisure.
To plan your rides, you can consult Bike.Brussels, which offers a detailed map of routes across Brussels and its surroundings, including specific paths to discover the region's most beautiful green spaces.
These recreational cycling opportunities further support bike adoption beyond strictly professional use, providing employees with a practical and enjoyable way to explore their environment while staying active.
Brussels, with its high urban density, presents unique challenges for bike adoption. The lack of space in Brussels apartments for storing bikes is a major obstacle, reducing the appeal of bike leasing for many employees. However, several practical solutions exist to overcome these space limitations, making it easier for city dwellers to adopt cycling as a daily mode of transportation.
By implementing these simple solutions, the challenges posed by Brussels' urban density can be mitigated, making cycling more accessible and attractive for employees. These initiatives, while improving residents' quality of life, also promote a transition to more sustainable modes of transport.
Cycling safety is a major concern for many Brussels employees, and rightly so. Intense traffic, complex intersections, and a lack of protected cycling lanes can discourage even the most motivated cyclists from using their bikes to commute. However, it's important to note that measures are in place to improve cyclist safety in Brussels, and awareness plays a key role in this area.
The Importance of Awareness:
Cycling safety does not only depend on physical infrastructure such as bike lanes or dedicated traffic lights. Awareness among cyclists, motorists, and pedestrians is just as crucial. In Brussels, regular awareness campaigns are conducted to encourage respectful and safe behavior among all road users. These campaigns highlight practical tips, such as wearing a helmet, the importance of being visible (especially at night or in bad weather), and using hand signals to indicate direction changes.
An Increasingly Safe Environment:
It's reassuring to know that Brussels is making constant progress in improving cycling safety. In addition to new cycling infrastructure, the city has also introduced 30 km/h zones in many neighborhoods, reducing traffic speeds and the risk of serious accidents. Increased radar presence and speed controls also contribute to making the roads safer for cyclists.
A Supportive Cycling Community:
Brussels benefits from an active and supportive cycling community. Many local associations, such as Pro Vélo or GRACQ, offer free or low-cost training for cyclists, covering topics such as safety, traffic rules, and basic bike maintenance. Participating in these training sessions or joining cycling groups can be a great way to build confidence and feel safer on the road.
In conclusion, while cycling safety is a legitimate concern, many initiatives are in place to make cycling in Brussels safer and more enjoyable. The combination of improved infrastructure, continuous awareness efforts, and an engaged cycling community helps create an environment where cyclists can feel more confident and protected.
Bike leasing has seen growing success outside Brussels, where better cycling infrastructure and versatile bike use for both professional and personal activities appeal to an increasing number of employees. In Brussels, despite existing challenges such as urban density and safety concerns, practical solutions and promising initiatives are already in place to overcome these obstacles. By leveraging developing infrastructure, heightened safety awareness, and adapted residential amenities, businesses and residents in Brussels can fully embrace this sustainable form of mobility. Adopting cycling is not only about choosing an eco-friendly mode of transport, but also about enjoying a more active and healthy lifestyle in a rapidly evolving city.
