Now, I’ve had some time bicycling in both Denmark and the Netherlands, at least enough to see some differences and provide comparisons.
The illustration below explains how a basic intersection might work in either of the countries systems. The bicycle lanes in the Netherlands if not pavers are very often a type of red painted asphalt. This contrasts nicely from the black asphalt.
In Copenhagen, the system is built on uni-directional bike lanes, except for bridges and parks for example. Where as in the Netherlands, there are a mix of uni and multi-directional lanes across the urban framework.
The Danish system does not support a right turn unless during a green light. Bicyclists stop before the pedestrian crossing and wait. If in Copenhagen you want to make a left turn, you go through the intersection and merge into the other bike (joining in front of the cyclists waiting at a red).
In the Netherlands, bicycles are making right turns without stopping. As well there is a strong use of protected turn lanes and multiple ways to make turns because of multi-directional bike lanes mixed throughout the system. In general, in the Netherlands, traffic rules for bicycles are more like guidelines. If possible traffic engineers are removing lights from intersections when the design supports a yield and flow type traffic movement. Where as in Copenhagen the use of traffic lights is a critical component to the system.
(The white box with a cross means you should not stop here, its a motive space that needs to stay open)
Some other interesting differences is the use of the bike bell. I noticed less bell use in the Netherlands. The bell is just a reminder that you might be too close for passing, and you should move to the right side of the path. In the Netherlands people will pass you with very little room on the left or even in other more creative ways, if they feel like they can. In Denmark, you will get the bike bell rung at you because folks like a little more room to pass and will pass you on the left almost every time.
Culturally, in the Netherlands it seems you can do what you want on a bicycle- that is go where you need to on a bicycle and feel safe, cars will yield. In Denmark you shouldn’t make right turns without stopping and there is a lot more following of the rules.
I feel safer riding in the Netherlands because the vehicles (including taxis) seem more tame-and I think it’s more convenient in terms of bicycle riding; making turns and getting where you want to go. However, in Copenhagen, I never once locked my bike besides a quick-rear lock, where as in Amsterdam, I always chain it up at night.
Of these different systems, I think certain aspects from both countries could be applied to the U.S. For example: The raised intersections which both systems often utilize seems very applicable. Overall, the Danish system with its rules might be more easily applied in many parts of the U.S, especially those that don’t already have a bicycling culture. However, existing bicycling hubs like Portland or Eugene for example could adopt a more Dutch approach. Especially where there is regular bicycle traffic, striping and coloring the lane for bicyclist makes sense for pedestrians and bicyclists and cars.
Something that the U.S could do is to develop more of cultural narrative that Americans bicycle. Small infrastructure items can help with this (like bicycle trip counters located around town, or positive propaganda, the university policy’s like expensive parking also helps) but also media campaigns and other promotions or organizations could help with this. I’ve learned about how important social movements have been in Copenhagen and the Netherlands, in getting cars off the road and encouraging bicycling as a means of regular transportation. ‘Stop de Kindermoord’ was a strong player for social change. Things like Safe routes to schools should not be under looked-as well as making our neighborhoods safe places to play (or walk or bicycle) in the streets again; these are important and feasible next steps.
I’ve seen urban design throughout the city here in Amsterdam which allow for kids to play in their own neighborhoods while not being worried about traffic or speeding cars-these calmer streets are also comfortable for seniors or frankly, anybody to enjoy!