I think it may be safe to conclude that every Dane in Copenhagen owns at least one bike. Biking is often the fastest and most practical way of getting around. It has been interesting experiencing a city with very structured, well-kept bike lanes. Many Danes don’t even wear helmets due to the safety the lanes provide cyclists from cars. I have observed that the cars are actually really good about watching out for cyclists when driving- maybe even more so than cyclists watching out for pedestrians. However, some have told me that they believe cars don’t trust bikes, bikes don’t trust cars, and pedestrians need to watch where they are going. I have witnessed many tourists and DIS students walk in the bike lane because they assumed it was an extension of the sidewalk. This is a huge NO NO. Chances are you will hear the sound of a furious bell or you’ll get hit, but probably both.

 When I first arrived in Copenhagen, the biking culture was very overwhelming at first. It took me about a week to begin hating walking and realizing that a bike is key. It then took me about another week or so to trust myself in the bike lanes and avoid laughter from the locals. At this point, the only problem was that I didn’t have a bike. Since I am staying a year I looked into buying a bike opposed to renting because it’s cheaper. I eventually found a bike on DBA, which is basically a Danish Craigslist. It’s not the nicest bike if judging by Copenhagen standards, but for $100 I’m okay with that. Anyways, in between classes I met the guy who was selling the bike. Everything works fine (I hope… I don’t know THAT much about bikes) and I turned what was a 20 minute commute into a 5 minute trip.

However, riding home that day was a struggle. One, I didn’t realize until about the fourth ride home, that it’s 4 miles!!!! What… who am I? Two, it was pouring rain that first ride home. The ride home made me realize that special pants for biking in the rain exist and that I should invest in them.

 The next day I rode to school for the first time and realized truly how hard it is to go up a hill with a 30-pound backpack. I also realized the hard way that Danes wear black for a reason, to avoid noticeable bike sweat. TMI?

 I’m quite proud of myself for making a 4-mile ride (about 30 minutes) to and from school a few days a week. If it’s raining, you know I take the metro. The ride is a little tough with a backpack, but the metro lacks the freedom and energy biking provides.

 I recently bought a bought a basket for transporting groceries etc. Of course I bought the cheapest and easiest one to attach… aka one that just rests on your handlebars. I secured it with zip ties. We’ll see how long that works out. I also have yet to attach bike lights because I don’t want to buy a screwdriver… Don’t worry, I won’t ride at night without them.

 I’ll end with a fun fact: It costs close to three thousand dollars to get your driver’s license in Denmark. Clearly bikes prevail.

Find all my posts about Denmark here.