Chicago Bikeability: Chicago is bikeable, according to recent studies. Chicago has made biking simpler, but there are still ways to improve the roadways for bikers.
Clever ranked Chicago the 20th most “bikeable” city in the U.S. This evaluation considered Walk Score’s cycling score, bike pathways, shops, rentals, and shares per 100,000 people. The study also examined 2021 fatal car incidents involving cyclists, the number of people who ride to work, and Google searches for cycling and bike routes.
My Streetsblog Chicago founder John Greenfield stated Chicago is bike-friendly than most big U.S. municipalities. He spoke on the city’s bike infrastructure, how many cyclists reside there, and the various scenic routes.
Clever’s analysis also revealed issues. Chicago needed more tracks, bike shops, and bike rentals per 100,000 inhabitants. Google searches for cycling topics, weather, and air quality were also considered.
Chicago’s bike-ability rating aligned with Vision Zero, a non-profit that aims to end road deaths. Vision Zero Chicago began in 2017 to eliminate traffic deaths and severe injuries by 2026. The city is dedicated to road safety.
READ MORE: Cunard Line Queen Mary 2: Cunard Ship’s Bold Breakaway in Italian Windstorm
People For Bikes examined 1,484 U.S. and 249 foreign cities in a separate study. This study examined Chicago’s bike-ability differently. This study examined speed restrictions, protected bike lanes, and grid connectivity. The results supported Mayor Brandon Johnson’s transition team’s recommendations to lower speed limits and create a citywide network of protected bike lanes.
Despite their diverse methodology, both studies showed the importance of safe and connected bicycle infrastructure. Greenfield suggested decreasing the speed limit to 25 mph to boost Chicago’s cyclist-friendly score.
In March, the CDOT announced a bicycle strategy plan. This design comprises 150 miles of enhanced bike lanes and a grid of low-stress neighborhood bike routes.
Greenfield noted that Chicago is accomplishing a lot but highlighted that riding infrastructure must be upgraded elsewhere. Riding benefits the environment and road safety, he said. He urged the city to improve bicycle safety and inclusion.
Our Reader’s Queries
Is Chicago a bike friendly city?
In 2023, a report by PeopleForBikes ranked Chicago 161st out of 163 big cities for bikeability. The city received poor scores for the accessibility of bike lanes to transit hubs, recreational facilities, and core services, as well as for traveling to different neighborhoods.
Is Chicago safe for cycling?
Chicago’s high rate of bicycle accidents is largely due to infrastructure issues. Approximately 50 miles of the city’s bike lanes are meant for cyclists to share the road with vehicles, which can pose a higher risk of drivers not seeing cyclists.
Is it easy to bike around Chicago?
Chicago is renowned as a top city for cycling in the U.S. thanks to its perfect mix of environment, culture, and infrastructure investment.
What is the bicycle capital of the Midwest?
Madison’s surplus of bikes has dubbed it the “unofficial bike capital of the Midwest” by Destination Madison. In addition, Yahoo recognized our city as one of the Best Cities on Earth for Biking. What sets Madison apart as a top choice for cycling enthusiasts? It’s the ultimate cycling city.