Dutch Government Trials 12mph Cycling Limit in Houten as Cyclist Deaths Rise 14%
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jun 14
Dutch Government Trials 12mph Cycling Limit in Houten as Cyclist Deaths Rise 14%
1 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jun 14
Summary
A two-week pilot in Houten has begun testing a 12mph (20km/h) limit on a 130-metre cycle route with a low-visibility crossroads used by about 4,000 riders a day.
The trial follows worsening safety data: 80,900 cyclists were treated in A&E after crashes last year, while cyclist deaths rose 14% to 281 as e-bikes and other faster vehicles crowd bike paths.
Cameras recorded baseline speeds last week, signs went up on Monday, and researchers will measure next week whether riders slow down and whether they can judge their own speed.
Local cycling advocates backed the test, citing schoolchildren and older riders on busy paths, while some cyclists argued the problem is motorised bikes and questioned how ordinary riders would know if they exceed 12mph.
The pilot fits a broader Dutch safety push that includes fat-bike restrictions in some cities and planned helmets for under-18s on electric vehicles, even as researchers warn policy should keep cycling attractive.