Most bicyclists in Reykjavik Iceland use a helmet

83 per cent of bicyclists in the Greater Reykjavik Area in Iceland use a helmet. This is the result of a recent field observation commissioned by VIS insurance company in Reykjavik.

Automatic counters were installed in seven locations in the city. A total of 1.045 cyclists passed in three days. 867 used a helmet. The results are comparable to previous field observations by the Iceland Sports Union on helmet use by bicyclists.

“We always ask our guests to use a helmet on our tours,” says Ursula Spitzbart of Reykjavik Bike Tours in Reykjavik Iceland. “If guests insist on not using a helmet they must sign a release in case of an accident”. But there are no exceptions for those 15 years and younger because according to the law they must wear a helmet. “We are strict about the use of helmets and all our guides wear a helmet to set a good example,” says Ursula.

“This said, a helmet may provide false security but at least it looks good in the pictures and it keeps our guest’s heads warm,” says Ursula smiling.

New bicycle path in Reykjavik not a good idea

Shopkeepers including a bicycle rental shop along Hverfisgata Street describe their dissatisfaction in the video clip below. They complain about losing parking spaces for their customers.

Friday this week the idea is to designate a part of Hverfisgata Street in Reykjavik as a bicycle path. The path is underway and has been painted green. Saturday there is Reykjavik Marathon and Culture Night – both sure to attract crowds in town. Hverfisgata is parallel to Laugavegur street, Reykjavik‘s main shopping street.

One argument against the bicycle path is that it is on the shadow side of the street – it would have made more sense to build it on the sunny side.

Shopkeepers and residents got less than five days notice of the temporary change which authorities say will last one month.

See the green path along Hverfisgata Street, click here.