In celebration of Transport Month, the City of Joburg hosted the very first Safe Cycling Awareness Ride in the city. Picture: Tobias Ginsberg, www.volume.co.za
THE CITY of Johannesburg's recent Safe Cycling Awareness Ride, held in partnership with the Pedal Power Association (PPA), offers a crucial example of how South Africa can embrace safer, more sustainable transportation. As part of Transport Month, this initiative highlighted the urgent need to protect vulnerable road users and promote cycling as a viable, eco-friendly alternative to cars for short distances.
With over 200 cyclists participating, the event sends a powerful message about the shared responsibility between motorists and cyclists in fostering safer roads. While Johannesburg hosted this event, its significance resonates far beyond the city limits. From advocating for mutual respect on the roads to showcasing cycling as an affordable, accessible mode of transport, this ride lays the groundwork for other regions to follow suit in encouraging a cycling-friendly culture across the nation.
In celebration of Transport Month, the City of Joburg partnered with the PPA, one of South Africa's largest membership-based cycling organisations, to host the very first Safe Cycling Awareness Ride in the city on October 6.
The event, which attracted over 200 riders, kicked off in the heart of Johannesburg's CBD and followed a scenic 25km route. Cyclists enjoyed an iconic journey through historic locations including Newtown, Melville, Westcliff, Zoo Lake, and along Jan Smuts Drive before returning to the CBD.
The diverse range of cyclists and bicycles in the event was a testament to the growing popularity of cycling in South Africa.
Neil Robinson, CEO of the PPA, explained the ride’s purpose: “The main objective of the ride was to demonstrate that cyclists have a right to share the road with other road users and that they are extremely vulnerable. We want cyclists and motorists to show mutual respect towards each other.”
The vibrant atmosphere on the day highlighted the love for cycling among participants from all walks of life. Each rider, whether seasoned or new to cycling, came together to emphasise the importance of establishing safer roads for cyclists in Johannesburg. Robinson also emphasised the PPA’s advocacy for cycling as an affordable and sustainable means of transportation for short distances.
“We want more people to cycle to the shops, to one’s neighbours, to work, and for kids to enjoy the fun of cycling to school. But for this to happen, we need safer roads and more affordable bicycles,” he said.
The event was a family-friendly affair, with many women and children participating. “It was heart-warming to see so many women and kids join us on the ride. We are hoping that the ride sent a positive message to the motorists on the road,” Robinson said.
The cyclists were escorted by a Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) team and emergency services to ensure a smooth and safe ride. Marshals provided additional support along the route, guiding participants. Several local cycling clubs from areas such as Soweto, Daveytown, Centurion and Ga-Rankuwa also joined the ride to advocate for safer roads for all.
One of the day’s highlights was riding across the iconic Mandela Bridge, a moment Robinson described as “spectacular”.
He expressed gratitude for the collaboration between the PPA and the City of Joburg during Transport Month. “The camaraderie amongst the cyclists was fantastic as we united to promote safe cycling. We hope to host similar rides in other parts of Johannesburg soon.”
The event also saw the Road Accident Fund supporting cyclists by hosting a water point at Zoo Lake, further reinforcing the sense of community. Robinson closed with a message of optimism, stating, “Yes, there are challenges, but together we can make real change happen.”
With this successful ride, the PPA and the City of Joburg hope to continue pushing for safer roads and encouraging cycling as a sustainable and accessible form of transportation. The Safe Cycling Awareness Ride was not just an event; it was a call for action, urging both motorists and cyclists to work together to create safer roads for all.
By prioritising cyclist safety and infrastructure, the rest of South Africa can take a cue from Johannesburg's bold step forward and push for change that benefits all road users.