Cyclist survey: improvements in Leipzig and Dresden

Leipzig and Dresden have become more bicycle-friendly. The German Cyclists' Federation (ADFC) has certified significant improvements in both cities. This is based on the new bicycle climate test, in which around 213,000 cyclists nationwide took part last fall. Auerbach in the Vogtland region stands out in particular. Many improvements were reportedly achieved there. What has the town actually done? More on this below.

Leipzig and Dresden, the largest cities in the state, have improved compared to 2022. Nevertheless, they only received a school grade of 4. The biggest points of criticism in Leipzig are the winter service on cycle paths and crime with regard to bicycle theft. The city is rated most positively for public bicycles and accessibility of the city center. In a national comparison of 15 cities with more than 500,000 inhabitants, the trade fair city (overall rating 3.70) came fourth after Frankfurt am Main, Hanover and Bremen. It is followed by Munich and then Dresden (3.93) in sixth place.

Chemnitz complains about aggressive mood

Chemnitz was the third major city in Saxony to be rated worse by cyclists (4.14). Among the 25 cities with 200,000 to 500,000 inhabitants, the current European Capital of Culture was ranked 16th, but scored better than Halle, Erfurt and Magdeburg.

81 percent of respondents in Chemnitz did not feel safe when cycling, according to ADFC Saxony. There is also room for improvement when it comes to interaction in road traffic. "79 percent of those surveyed reported an aggressive atmosphere in road traffic, with only 18 percent stating that cars usually overtake them at a sufficient distance."

However, this is not just a problem in Chemnitz. The lack of distance from drivers when overtaking is often a nuisance nationwide. According to the ADFC, cycle paths are also too narrow or parked up. In order to improve conditions for cyclists, the association advises local authorities to create protected lanes and structurally separated cycle paths, as well as special cycle lanes. Generous 30 km/h zones in residential and mixed-use areas would also contribute to the improvement, as would safe and easily accessible bicycle parking spaces at all train stations, bus stops, workplaces and shopping centers. Then more people would also use their bikes.

Auerbach: dead ends and one-way streets open to cyclists

Auerbach in Vogtland was positively highlighted nationwide. Similar to Tübingen, Auerbach has shown that hilly towns can become more bicycle-friendly. Dead ends and one-way streets have been opened up to cyclists, new cycle paths have been built and cycle path signage has been renewed. "The city administration is setting a good example and offers company bikes for employees," praised the ADFC.

The nationwide survey was conducted for the eleventh time. From September 1 to November 30, 2024, interested parties were able to submit scores from 1 to 6 on various points. According to the information provided, the survey covered categories such as safety and comfort when cycling, infrastructure and the promotion of cycling. The results are not representative, but according to the ADFC, they can help local authorities to improve cycling in a targeted manner.