Hey all, I have just read an odd article online - in two cities in my country, Amsterdam and Houten, a speed limit for cyclists is being introduced... 😯
These are meant as tests to improve the safety for everyone on the very crowded cycling lanes that apparently are getting more dangerous every year with a lot of different users on them.
Old people on electric bikes, youth on fat bikes that are sometimes speeding at 40km/h, children, electric scooters and of course sport cyclists like ourselves.
In my country there are a lot of Patronizing little laws like this and this is just the newest, I wonder how law enforcement will be able to handle this, understaffed already so they probably won't, so what's next, licence plates on bikes so we can get caught by speeding camera's? 😅
Here's the link to the original article but obviously it's in Dutch but I've translated it using ChatGPT.
So, how are the laws and safety situations in the area you cycle in?
It doesn't have any impact on me, my house is on the edge of the small city I live in, in 2 minutes I'm cycling between the meadows or when I need to cross the city to get to the other side I need 10-15 minutes to leave the city, so that's not too bad.
I personally DO understand why they are trying this, it's simply to lower the risks between all different kind of users but being a sport cyclist as well this poses problems for the ones living in the cities and first have to get out of the city for their rides to start, which will now take even longer. One more reason not to live in any big city. 😅
'Normal' cyclists, without a head unit displaying the speed also have no indication of how fast they are going.
Amsterdam and Houten to Test 20 km/h Speed Limit for Cyclists
Amsterdam and Houten will soon begin a trial introducing a new and unusual traffic rule: a maximum speed limit of 20 kilometers per hour on certain bike paths. The goal is to improve safety on increasingly crowded cycling routes, where cyclists, e-bikes, mopeds, and fatbikes often pass each other at high speeds.
The trial is part of the Dutch Multi-Year Bicycle Safety Plan 2025–2029, introduced last summer. Several municipalities showed interest, and Houten and Amsterdam were selected to participate.
Where and When the Trial Starts
The experiment will begin earlier in Houten, starting on June 8. The speed limit will apply to the Fossa Iberica, a narrow and busy street located behind the Castellum shopping center.
In Amsterdam, the trial is scheduled to begin in September.
To make cyclists aware of the new rule, traffic signs will be installed. In addition, cameras will be placed along the route to monitor the position, speed, and type of road users.
No Fines During the Trial
Notably, police will not issue fines for speeding during the trial period. Authorities cite limited staffing and other priorities as the reason for not enforcing penalties.
This has led to skepticism among local residents. Some believe the measure will have little impact without enforcement, especially among younger riders on fast e-bikes or fatbikes.
One resident commented that introducing a rule without enforcement makes little sense and suggested that local enforcement officers should be present to ensure compliance.
Why This Location Was Chosen
The Fossa Iberica was selected for a reason. More than a thousand cyclists and moped riders pass through the area daily, and it includes a relatively unsafe intersection.
Since 2023, multiple accidents have been reported there. The situation is particularly busy before and after school hours, when large groups of students travel through the area—many using fatbikes or scooters.
In addition, shoppers frequently use the route, often with wide cargo bikes, further contributing to congestion.
Measuring the Impact
Despite doubts, the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management has decided to proceed with the trial. The growing number of e-bikes and fatbikes has made bike paths significantly busier and more complex.
The main goal of the trial is to better understand how cyclists behave under a speed limit and how it affects safety.
Researchers will collect data through cameras and surveys. Cyclists will be asked about their experience of safety, crowding, and their opinion of the new measure.
Public Opinion Divided
Early public opinion shows mixed reactions:
44% believe no one will follow the speed limit
44% say it will only work with enforcement
8% think it is a good idea
4% have other opinions
This highlights the uncertainty around whether the measure will actually change behavior.
Government: Safety Comes First
Minister Vincent Karremans emphasized the importance of the trial. He pointed to the rising number of cycling accidents in the Netherlands.
Last year, 281 cyclists died, and around 81,000 people required emergency medical treatment following bicycle-related incidents.
According to the minister, any measure that could improve road safety is worth exploring. If the trials in Houten and Amsterdam prove successful, similar experiments could be introduced elsewhere in the country.
However, he stressed that a nationwide speed limit is not the immediate goal. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis.
Local Support in Amsterdam
In Amsterdam, alderman Melanie van der Horst supports the initiative. She noted that cycling paths in the city have become increasingly unsafe due to higher traffic and the growing number of electric vehicles.
She believes that a 20 km/h limit could help protect vulnerable groups, such as elderly cyclists and parents with children, making them feel safer on bike paths.
Houten: A Leading Cycling City
Local officials in Houten are also positive about the trial. The municipality sees it as fitting its reputation as a leading cycling city.
Houten has been named “Cycling City of the Year” twice, in 2008 and 2018, and is aiming for the title again in 2028.
Alderman Wouter van den Berg stated that even in a city known for its cycling infrastructure, improvements are always possible. The municipality continues to invest in safer bike paths, fast cycling routes, and wider lanes where needed.
Houten is internationally known for its unique traffic design. Each year, students, urban planners, and traffic experts from around the world visit the town for inspiration. The bicycle plays the central role in its layout, while cars are largely restricted to a ring road, giving priority to cyclists within the town.