Learning from the GOAT of Bicycling, Copenhagen

Amar Kulkarni

During my visit to Copenhagen, one of the first things I noticed was how common and effortless cycling is. It is not just something people do for leisure or on weekends, they use for commuting. I saw people of all ages using bicycles to get around, even if its cold or snowing. What stood out the most was the number of mothers cycling with their children. Some had kids in front carriers, others in trailers or attached seats. It looked completely normal and felt very safe.

That sense of safety comes from how the city is planned and designed. The intersections felt calm and easy to navigate. Cyclists had their own lanes and signals. Everything moved in an organised way. There was no stress or confusion. Cyclists were not squeezed between cars or trying to find their way. They had a clear and respected place on the road.

I also noticed something very smart. Parked cars were placed between the cycle tracks and moving traffic. This created a barrier that made the cycle lanes feel much safer. Instead of riding next to fast-moving vehicles, cyclists had a row of parked cars protecting them. It was a small design choice that made a big difference.

Amar Kulkarni

What I found most interesting was that cycling did not feel like a special activity. It was just a normal part of life. People wore regular clothes, carried groceries, dropped off kids, and went to work. No one was trying to be fast or sporty. The bicycle was simply a tool for daily commuting.

All of this made me realise that cycling in Copenhagen is not only about good infrastructure. It also reflects the values of the city. It shows a strong commitment to making everyday life easier and safer for everyone. The focus is not just on traffic design. It is about building a better and more caring city.

Amar Kulkarni

Being in Copenhagen made me see how thoughtful planning and social priorities can come together. When cities create space for people instead of cars, they become places where everyday life feels calmer, healthier, and more connected.

Amar