Ideas from abroad

Barcelona

An attractive cycle track along the sea front. The one problem is people walking out between the palm trees which obstruct visibility. That's another reason why there must always be at least a 0.5m gap on the edge of tracks.

Barcelona has a lot of space to use for cyclists. Unfortunately a lot of dogs like to sniff the bushes where the cycle track is situated and so cyclists find their official path obstructed.

A typical wide cycle lane with a border between it and the rest of the carriageway.

The same arrangement works behind parked cars. As parking is not allowed up to the corner there is safe visibility at juncitons for emerging cyclists.

An unconventional arrangement of a cycle lane in the middle which keeps cyclists safely away from right turning traffic. It works as motor vehicles are not allowed to do left turns across it.

Madrid

Madrid is not cycle friendly and the bus lanes are not open to cycles so you are in theory supposed to cycle in the middle of the road. However one good idea is having a line of lights along the edge of the bus lane that light up in succession making it clear there is a special lane.

In the old town, there are no kerbs and bollards define the shape of the street and prevent illegal parking. It's much more attractive and people-friendly.

Paris

Cycle movements across the side road are assisted by these cycle markings, which could be particularly useful on roads where no cycle lane is marked. A plastic bollard ahead ensures buses stay out of the cycle lane as they enter the bus lane.