Bicycles on a bridge in Utrecht, Netherlands
© George Pachantouris/Getty Image
Bicycles on a bridge in Utrecht, Netherlands
Two wheels, no fuel and a whole lot of purpose—cycling is affordable, eco-friendly and easy on the planet. Something as simple as cycling can significantly boost your health, and swapping the car for a bicycle is an easy way to stay active. Moreover, cycling helps reduce pollution, eases traffic congestion and offers an affordable transport option for those without access to cars.
If there's one place that brings the cycling spirit to life, it's the Netherlands. Today's image captures bicycles lined up on a bridge in Utrecht. More than half the journeys around the city happen on bikes, surpassing cars and other transport options. Nearly everyone lives within 15 minutes of essentials—and over 90% can reach key places in just 10. This wasn't always the case. It was only in the 1970s, sparked by an oil crisis, rising car-related issues and strong social movements, that the country started prioritising bikes over cars. Since then, cities have embraced bike-friendly streets, dedicated lanes and traffic lights for cyclists. And thanks to the famously flat landscape, cycling here feels as natural as walking.
Related Images
Sailboats in Warnemünde, Germany
Sailors begin their journey from Chicago to Mackinac Island, Michigan during the Race to Mackinac
Carhenge, created by Jim Reinders near Alliance, Nebraska
Boats massing for the Barcolana Regatta in the Gulf of Trieste, Italy
The Ship of Tolerance, an international art installation in Zug, Switzerland
German Navy tall ship Gorch Fock in waters close to Reykjavík, Iceland
NASA astronaut works on the International Space Station during a spacewalk in 2006
Salcombe Harbour on the south coast of Devon, England
Bing Today Images
