Pedal Power on the Streets of Berlin!
🚴♂️💨 Thousands Ride for ADFC's Bike Rally Through the City
Cyclists En Masse Pedal Through Berlin in a Massive Bike Procession - Cyclists traverse Berlin in a massive bicycle excursion, numbers reaching up to thousands.
Get ready to pump those pedals, Berlin! Thousands of cycling enthusiasts, braving the elements, flocked to the capital from various neighboring regions to partake in the ADFC's Bike Parade. Despite occasional drizzle, the show went on, with a reported turnout of around 25,000 cyclists (according to ADFC) or 13,500 (as per police count).
High Spirits and Weather Woes
With the motto "Everyone on Bikes!", cyclists embarked on more than 20 diverse routes spanning approximately 2,000 kilometers. Whether cycling from the early morning hours or riding through the moonlit night, cities such as Polish Stettin, Leipzig, and Dessau joined Berlin in this two-wheeled symphony. Shorter city tours designed for kids also received a warm welcome. So far, there have been no major reported accidents.
Thunder and Sunshine
As the mercury rose and rain threatened, weather forecasts warned of impending thunderstorms and heavier rain. However, the majority of cyclists arrived at the Großer Stern under clear skies. The spirit of the parade was infectious, with participants soaking up the rain earlier, basking in the sunshine later. "There's an amazing energy here," organizers shared, "despite the tricky weather, everyone on the ADFC bike parade is in high spirits!"
Cycling Central Berlin
To accommodate the massive influx of cyclists, many streets were cordoned off for riders and cars were kept at bay. Notable road closures included sections of the Avus and A100-Südring highways, and several side streets. Those wishing to enter the city center were advised to use alternate transportation methods such as public transit or bikes. Cyclists were also free to join the routes at their leisure.
Advocating for Safer Cycling in Berlin
The ADFC bike parade also serves as a platform to voice political demands to the Berlin Senate. Susanne Grittner, a member of ADFC Berlin's board, expressed concerns about the capital's recent traffic policy turmoil. "The past few months have seen chaotic traffic policies in the city," she stated. "The Senate is removing 30 km/h zones, slashing bicycle budgets, and holding back neighborhood traffic calming measures." The organization urges the Senate to focus on creating more safe and well-designed bike lanes instead.
- Despite the unpredictable weather during the ADFC bike parade, participants showed their dedication to promoting an active lifestyle and supporting employment policy for bike industry, home-and-garden businesses, and travel agencies involved in promoting eco-friendly tours.
- As advocates for safer cycling, the ADFC organization called on the Berlin Senate, not only to maintain existing 30 km/h zones but also to increase investments in bike infrastructure and traffic calming measures, aligning their employment policies with the community's growing need for sustainable transportation options.
