The BACC agrees that conditions are still far from perfect for cyclists. “We’d like to say congratulations [to the Ajuntament] for launching Bicing, but there’s more to be done: we want a dedicated department for cyclists, to ensure that cycling laws are properly enforced, that the cycle lanes are being patrolled rather than constantly invaded by cars and scooters.” Scott Haynes also said that motor traffic is a problem for Barcelona’s cyclists. “It’s not so much a problem of inexperienced cyclists not knowing how to ride—it’s that the drivers, who aren’t the most conscientious in the first place, don’t know how to share the road.”
The Ajuntament says that Bicing is only part of an overall scheme, the Plan de la Bici, to improve conditions for cyclists. “We’re aiming to build 22 kilometres of new cycle lanes, although I don’t know where yet,” said Ramon Ferreiro. “And we’re going to renovate the lanes that already exist.”
Scattered criticisms notwithstanding, it’s rare for a municipal scheme to garner the level of praise and encouragement that Bicing has from advocacy groups: the general attitude towards the scheme is hugely positive. “So far they’ve done it right,” said Scott Haynes. “If Bicing sticks with local clients then I can only see it as a positive thing, raising awareness of the city’s desperate need for more cycle paths.”
Albert García agreed. “It’s great that they’ve made a system of public bicycles. The more, the better.”
Bicing facts:
Within two months over 25,000 city residents had signed up; when the initial discount membership phase ended at the start of July, there were over 80,000 members.
Phase One involved placing 1,500 bicycles at 100 stations. Bicing plans to double the size of the network by the end of the year to 3,000 bicycles and 200 stations.
Ninety-five percent of card holders are from Barcelona, only 0.2 percent are from outside of Catalunya.
The city is aiming to build 22 kilometres of new cycle lanes.
More info: www.bicing.com, www.bacc.info, www.ccub.org
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