I don’t think it is unconnected to the fact that Dutch young people are much happier than, say, British. Safer cycling gives them far greater freedom and agency

MCmodacitylife.bsky.socialOct 9, 2024 6:53am

The age group that cycles the most in the Netherlands is teens. Almost two-thirds of their journeys are made by bike. The second group that cycles the most is the 65 to 75 demographic. For those people aged out of driving, cycling is a means of continued participation in society.

NB: People of all ages cycling on sit-up-and-beg bikes, no 10-speed racers, no Lycra, no helmets, nobody trying to break Bradley Wiggins' record. Its not just the road layout, it's the mentality.

i presume no school uniforms either

I love the individuality of the bicycle, too. Must get back to Europe cycling again one day.

That's likely, but is there evidence that Dutch children are happier than their British counterparts

They still voted in #russianPuppet wilders, they won't be happy for long if that nazi fuck gets hold of any power.

I remember hearing of this idea of a 'zone of influence' or similar. Basically the environment young people are able to exist and how it has shrunk to basically the house. But people who are allowed to physically 'roam' have less screen time and are happier. Can' remember where I saw it now...

And happier parents as there are fewer mum & dad taxi journeys.

Next you'll be uncovering research that demonstrates that levels of obesity in young people are lower in the Netherlands too. Commuting on a bicycle? Madness!