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Cycling Safety Lags Behind Infrastructure Improvements in German Cities

Local investments have propelled cities like Frankfurt and Tübingen up the ADFC rankings, with more than two-thirds of riders still reporting feeling unsafe

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Overview

  • More than two-thirds of German cyclists say they feel unsafe on the roads, pointing to narrow or parked-blocked lanes and close overtaking by motorized traffic as primary risks.
  • Frankfurt claimed the top spot among cities with over 500,000 residents, earning a 3.49 grade through new protected bike lanes, dedicated cycling streets and expanded parking facilities.
  • Berlin dropped from ninth to twelfth place with a 4.3 rating after slashing cycling budgets, dismantling pop-up lanes and shelving planned fast-cycle routes.
  • Smaller towns such as Tübingen and Wettringen topped their size categories thanks to seamless premium networks, bicycle bridges and secure parking garages.
  • The federal government, led by Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder, has affirmed its backing for expanded, continuous cycle infrastructure and increased funding to boost rider safety nationwide.