Maximum Speed Day: What do different speeds mean for micromobility
Mar 4, 2025
•Bram van Duinen•3 min. reading timeToday is Maximum Speed Day! While you might initially think of car traffic, speed is also playing an increasingly important role in micromobility. With the rise and growing popularity of new forms of micromobility, different types of vehicles—each with varying speeds—are increasingly sharing the same roads and bike lanes. Additionally, cities continue to grapple with a complex mix of motorized traffic and micromobility. So how do we ensure that all these modes of transport can coexist safely and efficiently?
Micromobility: Faster Through Smart Infrastructure
Cities like Amsterdam have taken steps to improve traffic flow for cyclists. One example is the ‘knip’ in Weesperstraat, where the street was temporarily closed to through car traffic. This measure resulted in an 18% reduction in car traffic and improved the area's livability and air quality. Such initiatives help reduce congestion and allow cyclists to reach their destinations more quickly. Source: indebuurt.nl
Challenges of Varying Speeds on the Bike Path
With the rise of e-bikes and speed pedelecs, new dynamics are emerging on bike paths, particularly regarding speed differences.
While a regular cyclist rides at an average speed of 15 to 20 km/h, e-bikes easily reach 25 km/h, and speed pedelecs can go up to 45 km/h. These differences can create tensions and unsafe situations on busy bike lanes.
In Amsterdam, a pilot program is underway where faster cyclists, such as speed pedelecs and e-bikes, are redirected to the roadway instead of the bike path. Early results show that many cyclists view this change positively: bike paths feel safer and more comfortable, while fast-moving cyclists benefit from better flow on the road. Source: amsterdam.nl
Belgium is also working on solutions. Special traffic signs have been introduced to indicate whether speed pedelecs are allowed on bike paths or must use the road. This clear regulation helps cyclists understand where they belong, reducing confusion and improving safety.
Micromobility as the key to accessible cities
While speed is an important factor in mobility, the real focus should be on efficiency, safety, and sustainability. Micromobility—including bikes, e-bikes, speed pedelecs, and shared scooters—offers solutions that not only reduce travel time by avoiding congestion but also contribute to a healthier and cleaner urban environment.
By investing in infrastructure improvements, such as wider bike lanes, smart traffic lights, and low-traffic zones, cities can make micromobility safer and more attractive. At the same time, clear regulations are essential to managing speed differences on roads and bike paths.
Initiatives such as speed zones, dedicated signs for speed pedelecs, and pilot projects that relocate faster cyclists to roadways demonstrate how cities are adapting.
Stay ahead of the future of mobility with PENDLR
The way we move is changing rapidly. Whether it’s the role of speed in micromobility, smart infrastructure, or the latest innovations in bike parts and accessories—PENDLR keeps a close eye on these developments.
Would you like to gain more insight into how micromobility is shaping urban transport? Or are you looking for high-quality bike parts and accessories to provide the best service to your customers? Become a PENDLR customer today!
Together, we can make daily commutes more flexible, efficient, and sustainable!
Bram van Duinen
Performance Marketeer
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