[REVISION HISTORY]

Cycling safety and infrastructure in Germany

Updated 6 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-10-13 09:24 UTC → 2026-10-18 10:24 UTC · added ~~removed~~

In July 2026, a survey by the ADAC Stiftung revealed that 38% of German children aged 7–9 lack essential cycling safety skills, such as performing shoulder checks or using hand signals. While 96% of children aged 4–12 can ride a bicycle, many lack the necessary techniques for safe traffic participation. The report noted that in 2025, 74 children under 15 died in road accidents in Germany, with 13 deaths occurring on bicycles. Following these findings, the ADFC (Allgemeiner Deutscher Fahrrad-Club) launched its 12th Bicycle Climate Test (FKT), running from September 1 to November 30, 2026. This nationwide survey evaluates the bicycle-friendliness of German cities and municipalities, including the quality of paths, ~~safety,~~ signage, intersection clarity, and parking availability. For the first time, the assessment includes a dedicated component, ‘FKT Jugendliche’, targeting residents aged 10 to 20 to capture safety concerns and experiences regarding independent travel to school and leisure activities. In Dorsten, the ADFC has invited residents to participate in the online survey, which remains open until November 30. In a previous assessment, Dorsten received an overall grade of 3.85 on a scale of 1 to 6, performing slightly better than the German national average. The ~~results of this current survey are intended to help municipalities identify strengths and weaknesses to guide future development. The 2026 test~~ initiative is supported by ~~funds from~~ the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport to implement the National Cycling Plan. Participation has been highlighted in various locations, including Dorsten—which previously scored 3.85 on a 1 to 6 scale—as well as Herten and Mannheim. The study consists of three distinct components: assessments for adults, assessments for children and youth, and assessments for municipalities. Beyond infrastructure, the ADFC is linking cycling to public ~~health. On October 14, 2026, the association will host~~ health, hosting an international symposium in Berlin titled ‘Gesundheit x Mobilität’ ~~(Health x Mobility). Results~~ on October 14, 2026. The results and the ranking of Germany’s most bicycle-friendly cities are expected in spring 2027.

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