
The Netherlands is known for its culture of riding bicycles, and cycling is entrenched in everyday living. For students, riding is more of a lifestyle choice than just a means of transport. This guide explores how one can get the most out of riding as a student in the Netherlands by choosing the right bike to explore scenic routes. Whether you need to commute to class, explore the countryside, or soak up the local Dutch culture, this guide will get you through student life on two wheels.
1. Why Cycling is at the Heart of Student Life in the Netherlands
It is a way of life for the Dutch, especially for the students- the best mode of transport with marvellous bike paths in perfect condition and a flat landscape. Biking is ideal for students who must attend lectures and be social at the same cost-effective, eco-friendly, and swift transport.
Cycling is part of the culture of the people of the Netherlands. You can cycle to the market, a park, or even the university, which exposes you to the entire Dutch culture.
2. Cycling Infrastructure of the Netherlands: Designed for Everybody
One of the primary factors that enhances the appeal of cycling in the Netherlands is the superior bicycle infrastructure that is well-established across the nation. The country has over 35,000 kilometres of car-free bike lanes, making it easy and safe for students to cycle anywhere.
Some features of the Netherlands Include:
Wide bike paths: There are separate lanes for cyclists and the pedestrian population, which results in spacious paths for everyone.
Traffic signals for bicycles: Bike-specific traffic lights are provided in cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht to ensure a smooth ride.
Bike parking: There are designated bike parking areas everywhere in the city, campus, and transport centres.
The Dutch government maintains these tracks so students can have a comfortable ride.
3. Selecting the Right Bike: Top recommendations for students
Much depends on their requirement and budget while selecting a bike:
City Bikes: These are most popular among students, as they have good durability and usage.
Second-Hand Bikes: These are readily available in stores and markets. Nowadays, one can also get a good second-hand bike online. It offers an affordable facility for college students.
E-Bikes: Electric bikes have also become popular today because electric bikes ensure that students can travel long distances or prefer a ride with less exertion.
Whichever bike you select, ensure it is fitted with a good lock – cycle theft is rampant in student cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht.
4. Cycling Essentials: What to Carry on Your Journey
As a student cyclist, you should always carry the following items.
Locks: Invest in a decent lock. You want more than a simple chain lock in most Dutch cities, where bike theft is rampant.
Helmet: While this isn’t mandatory, it is highly recommended as safety gear.
Rain Gear: The Dutch weather can turn quite inconsistent, so carry waterproof clothing, like a jacket, pants, or capes.
Lights: According to the law, you must have lights on your front and rear whenever you go riding in the darkness or low visibility. You might end up getting fined if you’re caught riding a bicycle without lights.
5. Biking Etiquette in the Netherlands: What You Should Know
Dutch cycling etiquette is vital in a city where bikes dominate the traffic. Among the other do’s and don’ts, the following are the most important:
Stay on your right side: Cyclists should maintain their position on the right side of the lane; if other cyclists overtake you on your left, you are yielding the right of way to the faster individual.
Use hand signals: Signal while taking a turn for everyone’s safety and yours.
Avoid distractions: Do not cycle while texting or wearing headphones- it’s unsafe and a norm abhorred locally.
Use the bell: Ringing the bell is important anytime you overpass or someone blocks your way.
6. Cycling Through the Netherlands: Student Must-Take Road Routes
Cycling is not just a way of getting from one place to another in the Netherlands but a method of discovering the country. Some of the cycling routes that students in the Netherlands frequently choose are:
Amsterdam to Zandvoort Beach: Traveling from Amsterdam to Zandvoort Beach involves a scenic 30-minute drive, perfect for enjoying a weekend at the beach.
Utrechtse Heuvelrug: You will love to cycle across the national park near Utrecht with beautiful forested pathways and hills.
Kinderdijk Windmills: Cycle along this iconic row of windmills in South Holland, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Exploring these trails will give you a break from study and introduce you to Dutch history and nature.
7. Advantages of Cycling for Students: From Physical Fitness to Cost Savings
Advantages for students that extend beyond transportation while cycling as a mode of transport:
Health Benefits: You stay fit cycling, and the equivalent of cardio exercise comes without paying for a health club membership.
Cost Saving: As public transport rates keep stacking up, biking becomes very helpful because it saves students money in the long run.
Sustainability: Biking also reduces your carbon footprint, so you are helping to keep the environement clean.
8. Cycling Through The Dutch Weather: Riding Through The Year
The Dutch weather is somewhat unpredictable, but that does not deter students from biking. Here’s how you can prepare the right gear.
Winter Cycling: Though it doesn’t snow as much in the Netherlands as it used to, the temperature does get low when it does. So, layer up and wear gloves.
Rainy Days: Carry waterproof clothing. Consider purchasing a high-quality rain cover for your backpack to ensure the protection of your belongings.
Wind Conditions: Winds can be fierce, particularly along the coast. Headwinds make cycling much more complicated, so be prepared!
Riding a bicycle through the entire year allows you to maintain an active lifestyle and stay connected to your surroundings, irrespective of the weather.
9. Cycling Safety Tips: Stay Safe as a Student Cyclist
Safety must always be at the top of your mind when cycling in the Netherlands. Necessary safety precautions include the following:
Reflective Equipment: This is especially ideal for night rides or during winter when daylight is scarce.
Obey Traffic Lights: Obey traffic lights and observe what is happening around you.
Lock the Bike: Always lock the bike on a stable object, preferably the strongest U-lock or chain lock, so it is not stolen.
10. Student-Friendly Bike Services: Rentals, Repairs, and More
There are plenty of facilities for a student cyclist within a Dutch city:
Rental Services: Most universities offer bicycle rental services to students at the lowest cost.
Repair Shops: Repair shops are available everywhere in the city, so the threat of breakdown can always be addressed.
Check for discounts while being a student and using bike accessories and services while cycling.
Conclusion: Embrace The Dutch Cycling Culture
The typical university student in the Netherlands uses a bicycle for transportation. From navigating through a campus to cycling down scenic routes throughout the nation, cycling is the most affordable, healthy, and environmentally friendly means of transportion. Students quickly get absorbed into Dutch culture while embracing the independence and flexibility of riding a bicycle.
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