Did you know that the European Parliament has adopted a resolution aiming to double the length of cycling paths in the European Union?
The reason is simple: cycling significantly contributes to long-term climate goals and a healthier lifestyle. That is exactly why the 14th Split Bike Tour shows that cycling is for everyone and that we need cycling infrastructure more than ever.
In some European countries, cycling is a completely normal part of everyday life. The Netherlands, for example, has more bicycles than people and as many as 37,000 kilometres of cycling paths.
Cycling is also a common way of commuting to work or school, or simply enjoying leisure time in cities across Germany. Lucija Ilijić, founder of the Zagreb-based initiative Ture za cure (“Tours for Girls”), experienced this firsthand upon returning from Berlin.
“In Berlin, people, young and old cycle everywhere and all the time,” says Lucija.
In Split, the number of cyclists is growing year by year, and every autumn the Split Bike Ride gathers hundreds of citizens. Below, we bring you tips on how to introduce the healthy habit of cycling into your daily routine and how to prepare for our 14th Split Bike Tour.
How to prepare for the 14th Split Bike Ride
Preparing for urban cycling is not difficult.
“The most important thing is to check that your bike is in good condition: brakes, tyres, and lights—especially if you ride in the evening,” Lucija emphasizes.
She also recommends comfortable clothing and footwear, as well as bringing a bottle of water. For safety reasons, it is advisable to wear a helmet, check your route in advance, and review traffic rules.
“A helmet and a small repair kit can often save the day,” she adds. Safety comes first!
Turn the pedals and do something good for the environment
By adopting the healthy habit of cycling, you’re not only doing something good for yourself—you’re also contributing to a cleaner environment. If more people chose bicycles instead of cars, there would be fewer harmful emissions caused by burning fossil fuels. Just imagine a city with fresh, clean air!
“When people cycle, they naturally become more aware of their surroundings and start to appreciate the environment they move through. This also makes them more conscious of how important it is to protect it,” says Lucija.
Sustainable mobility means less congestion and noise for all of us.
“Bicycles also take up far less space in shared public areas compared to cars,” she adds.
By cycling, you also influence others—you inspire people around you to get on a bike. And the more people cycle, the greater the need for cycling and green infrastructure in cities. By choosing a bicycle, you help your city recognize the value of sustainable mobility.
Want to start cycling every day but lack company?
Inspired by the strong cycling community in Berlin, Lucija founded a community in Zagreb that connects and empowers women through cycling.
“The Ture za cure initiative is designed as a combination of recreation and socializing,” she explains.
Their cycling tours are not competitive or overly demanding, and part of the program includes practical tips: how to maintain your bike, how to ride safely in traffic, and what to bring on a ride. Did you know that women are more hesitant to start cycling than men?
“With Ture za cure, I want to provide women with a safe and encouraging space for movement and socializing,” says Lucija about the goal of her initiative.
Following the example of other European urban areas, let’s work together to encourage the development of an inclusive cycling culture in Croatian cities as well.
“Cycling brings people together—through group rides, initiatives, or clubs—creating a sense of belonging,” says Lucija.
Cycling is for everyone!
If you want to start cycling in Split and are looking for company, you can always join one of the local cycling clubs. We invite you to take that first step with us at the 14th Split Bike Ride on September 21st.
We start in Đardin at 4:00 PM, ride together through Split, and finish back in Đardin, where a fun program with music, games, and socializing awaits.
The Split Bike Tour is not a competitive event. Our goal is for everyone to enjoy the ride and understand the benefits of sustainable transport—for both the environment and our health.
Register, come to the starting point in Đardin, and let’s show together that Split can be a city of cyclists!
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