Danes and Bikes: A Powerful and Unique Relationship

In Denmark, bikes outnumber cars. That’s not just a fun fact—it’s a reality. More than 50% of Copenhagen’s residents commute by bicycle daily, and the country has over 12,000 km of dedicated cycling routes. If there’s one place where two wheels reign supreme, it’s here.

But Denmark’s cycling culture isn’t just about convenience. It’s about design, sustainability, and—let’s be honest—some serious leg power. The government invests millions each year in cycling infrastructure. Highways built just for bikes? Check. Timed traffic lights that favor cyclists? Absolutely. Covered bike lanes for winter? Of course.

For tourists and locals alike, cycling isn’t just an option—it’s the best way to experience Denmark. It’s fast. It’s fun. It’s efficient. Plus, it saves you from spending half your budget on public transport. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a lifetime, mastering the Danish biking scene is a must.

Want to know where to rent a bike, which routes to take, and how not to get run over by a local who bikes faster than a Tour de France contestant? Let’s get into it.

Danes and Bikes: What Led to This?

The cycling culture dates back to the 1880s when the country first introduced bikes. Next, during the 1920s and 1930s, the bicycle symbolised equality and freedom. After that, people from all walks of life began biking side by side, and today is quite common to see even politicians attending work on their bicycles.

In addition, the prosperity of the 1950s saw some Danes replacing bikes with automobiles, but the global oil crisis of the 1970s made driving exorbitantly costly. Finally, with the economy struggling in the 1980s, the government denied budgets for building roads and made bicycle lanes a better economic option for everybody.

Moreover, over time, worries about air pollution and climate change have enhanced the habit of cycling even more.

Two Parked Coloured Bicycles | Danes and Bikes

Why Cycling is the Backbone of Danish Life

Bikes aren’t just a mode of transport in Denmark. They’re a way of life. Nearly 90% of Danes own a bicycle, and in Copenhagen alone, cyclists collectively ride over 1.4 million kilometers every day—that’s like biking to the moon and back twice.

So why is cycling so popular? Simple: it’s faster than driving, cheaper than public transport, and better for the planet. The Danish government has spent decades building cycling infrastructure that makes biking safe, seamless, and actually enjoyable. Think separate bike lanes, bike-only bridges, and even supercycle highways connecting cities.

Even the weather doesn’t stop them. Rain? Just another Tuesday. Wind? Build those leg muscles. Snow? Time to test those winter tires. If you want to experience Denmark like a local, a bike is your golden ticket.

Danish Bike Trivia

• Denmark will host the first three stages of this year’s Tour de France.
• 49% of all journeys to school and work are made on bicycles.
• 9 out of 10 Danes own a bicycle. In comparison, 4 out of 10 Danes own a car.
• Danes cycle 1.6 km a day on average.
• There are more than 12,000 kilometers of cycle routes in Denmark.

A Bike Parked Next To A Wall | Danes and Bikes

Denmark’s Biggest Cycling Events & Initiatives

Denmark doesn’t just love cycling—it celebrates it. Whether you’re a pro rider or a casual cyclist, these events and initiatives make Denmark a true cycling powerhouse.

🚴 Tour of Denmark (Danmark Rundt) – Denmark’s biggest professional cycling race, drawing international teams and crowds every summer. If you’re visiting, watching this race is a must!

🚴 Copenhagenize Index – Not an event, but an achievement. Copenhagen regularly tops this global ranking of the world’s most bike-friendly cities, setting an example for urban cycling worldwide.

🚴 Cycle Super Highways – Denmark is building a network of 45+ long-distance bike highways, making cycling between cities faster and smoother than ever. Some routes even have green-wave traffic signals, letting cyclists ride without stopping.

🚴 Bike to Work Month (Vi Cykler Til Arbejde) – Every May, thousands of Danes participate in this nationwide initiative, ditching their cars and taking to two wheels for their daily commute.

Want to experience Denmark’s cycling culture firsthand? Time your visit around one of these events and join the fun.

Danish Bicycle Brands You Should Know

Danish bikes are built for style, durability, and practicality. Whether you need a sleek city bike or a sturdy cargo trike, these brands are leading the way:

🚲 Biomega – The Apple of bikes. Sleek, modern, and perfect for city life, Biomega specializes in high-end electric bikes with minimalist designs.

🚲 Principia – High-performance Danish engineering. These road and mountain bikes are built for speed and precision, making them a favorite among cycling enthusiasts.

🚲 Christiania Bikes – The legendary cargo bike brand. If you’ve ever seen a parent cycling with kids in a front box, it was probably a Christiania Bike.

🚲 Velorbis – Retro and refined. Velorbis makes elegant Danish commuter bikes that combine vintage aesthetics with top-tier craftsmanship.

If you want a bike that’ll last for years (or just want to ride like a Dane), check out these brands before making a purchase.

How to Ride Like a Local: Cycling Rules & Tips

Denmark’s bike-friendly streets come with a few unwritten rules. Break them, and you’ll either annoy the locals or, worse, get fined. Here’s what you need to know:

🔹 Stick to the bike lanes – Almost every road has them. Riding on the sidewalk? Not an option.

🔹 Use hand signals – Want to turn left? Extend your left arm. Stopping? Raise your hand. No sudden moves.

🔹 Lights are mandatory at night – No lights? That’s a 700 DKK (€94) fine waiting for you.

🔹 Watch out for pedestrians – They’ll step onto bike paths without looking. It’s a national pastime.

🔹 Cargo bikes get respect – They’re like the SUVs of Denmark. If you see one, give them space.

Follow these rules, and you’ll blend in like a true Dane—minus the Lycra racing outfit (unless that’s your thing).

Conclusion: Denmark on Two Wheels—Your Next Move

By now, you should be convinced that biking in Denmark isn’t just a mode of transport—it’s a way of life. It’s woven into the country’s DNA, from the bustling streets of Copenhagen to the peaceful coastal trails of North Zealand.

If you’re visiting, rent a bike. Seriously. It’s the cheapest and most immersive way to explore. If you’re moving here, invest in a good one. A solid Danish bike will last you years, maybe even decades. If you’re looking to understand why Danes are some of the happiest people in the world, well, cycling might just have something to do with it.

So, what’s next? Maybe you’ll take a scenic ride along the Copenhagen Harbour. Maybe you’ll brave the legendary headwinds of Jutland (respect to the locals who do this daily). Or maybe you’ll just enjoy the freedom of riding through a country that truly prioritizes cyclists.

Whatever you do, just remember one thing: in Denmark, the bike always wins.

Explore Copenhagen by Bike With Amitylux

Copenhagen is one of the safest places to be a cyclist. If you want to explore Copenhagen like a local on a bike  – book a tour with Amitylux.

Let our knowledgeable guides show you the best of the city.