Denmark considers speed limits on bike paths after Dutch trial

The Danish Cyclists’ Federation is calling for action on speed limits for bike paths, following a Dutch trial that introduces a 20 km/h cap on selected routes in Houten and Amsterdam.

Vicedirector Jane Kofod said the move reflects a major shift in bike lane traffic, with a growing mix of e-bikes, cargo bikes, and other vehicles. “When Holland looks at this, it’s a response to the huge upheaval happening on bike paths. And we’re only at the beginning,” she said.

Denmark has seen a rise in e-bike accidents in recent years. In 2019, e-bikes accounted for 10% of cycling accidents; by 2023, that figure had climbed to 17%. Hospital-treated e-bike injuries rose from 256 in 2018 to 1,016 in 2023, according to the Danish Road Directorate and the University of Southern Denmark.

Kofod warned that without infrastructure adjustments, vulnerable groups—such as elderly cyclists or families with children—may feel unsafe. “If we reach a point where people stop cycling because they don’t feel secure, we have a serious problem,” she said.

Aarhus is already testing a 30 km/h limit on Brabrandstien, a busy path shared with pedestrians, a proposal the federation supports. In Copenhagen, the debate focuses on the surge in shared e-bikes, with 4,500 new units added this summer, bringing the total to 13,000. A recent survey found 32% of Copenhagen cyclists view tourist cyclists as a significant traffic safety issue.

Kofod stressed that speed limits alone may not be the solution but could help restore confidence. She also reminded riders that speed must always match conditions, regardless of a bike’s maximum capability.