Modesty is a pride, but does not always lead to the desired result. During the foundation of the promotion circle economy, politics and society of the Work Group Bicycle-Friendly Communities (AGFK) Baden-Wuerttemberg’s Minister of Transport Winfried Hermann called it therefore a terrible pity that the bike industry were so undemanding. He requested them to use the automotive lobby as a model in this field. Hermann’s target: To increase the share of cycle traffic in Baden-Wuerttemberg from currently eight to ten percent up to more than 20 percent.

As cycling is something that mainly takes place on municipal cycle lanes the AGFK intends to ease the contact between local communities and the cycle industry. This target should be reached with a smoother dialogue between economy, politics and administration. Within the AGFK the cycle industry is represented by the associations VSF and ZIV as well as numerous industry leaders, such as Paul Lange & Co., Jobrad, Bosch Ebike Systems and Zedler-Institut. On the part of politics there are more than 75 communities that have the intention to promote Baden-Wuerttemberg’s cycle traffic systematically. As a concrete example Hermann mentioned that many cycle lanes had to be enlarged for the cargo bikes becoming more and more popular.

Hermann expressively praised the constructive cooperative with the cycle industry. Members of the industry were not narrow-minded, because many of them were also driving cars and eager to make multiple interests compatible with one another. In particular in terms of cycle traffic promotion economy and politics had similar targets, but were often speaking different languages. The promotion circle is to overcome this obstacle. According to VSF Managing Director Albert Herresthal, they were therefore happy with their VSF Lounge to host the foundation of the AGFK promotion circle and to also provide input.

Author: Alexander Schmitz
Photo: VSF