A bike is a great way to get around and is enjoyable.
It’s easier and safer, but we need bigger changes.
G.P.Yes
Apple is pretty late to the game here.
Nhi Dam / Unsplash
For example, say youre approaching a crossroads with traffic lights and want to turn left.
Car directions may instruct you to take the left-hand turning lane.
And around the world, bikes are subject to different traffic rules and laws.
In Germany, for example, one-way streets are often only one-way for motor vehicles.
Bikes can go both ways.
And bike-specific directions can take different requirements into account.
If routing through San Francisco, a good bike-mapping app might do its best to avoid the steepest hills.
It might ignore the shortest route in favor of one which avoids busy roads.
It’s good to see apps providing routing for them."
Apple Maps itself does much of this.
The Future
Cycling in cities is only getting more popular.
During the pandemic lockdowns, bike shops remained open here because bikes are considered essential transport.
This is partially about the existing traffic system and its laws being completely built around cars.
In 2015, Paris changed itsCode de la Routetoallow cyclists to ignore some red lights.
This gives them a head-start on cars, avoiding snarl-ups and inattentive drivers when the lights turn green.
Traffic laws must reflect modern traffic, including bikes, scooters, and pedestrians.
Currently, priority is given to the most dangerous vehicles on the road.
Instead, it should be given to the most vulnerable.
