Over the past decade Republic’s approach to cycling infrastructure has undergone a significant transformation. Once limited, the State’s network of cycle paths, lanes and greenways has expanded rapidly, driven by environmental concerns and the growing recognition of the health and social benefits of active transport.
One notable example of this progress is Dún Laoghaire’s Coastal Mobility Route. “The Coastal Mobility Route is a segregated double cycle lane along the seafront from Blackrock to Sandycove,” says Ossian Smyth, Green Party Minister of State with responsibility for public procurement, egovernment, and circular economy. “It was built rapidly during the pandemic for less than €1 million and has led to a near tripling of cycle trips, with up to 20,000 journeys per week.”
Towns and cities are also exploring bold new ideas to further limit car access and promote cycling. For instance, Dún Laoghaire’s “pathfinder” scheme proposes closing certain streets to car traffic, allowing only cyclists and pedestrians to pass through with vehicles diverting around the perimeter of the town.
With the recent legalisation of e-scooters, there is growing interest in how the evolving cycling infrastructure could support a broader shift towards micromobility. Smyth suggests e-scooters will naturally fit into the improved transport network: “E-bikes have already taken off and now that e-scooters are legal, the existing infrastructure will likely lead to increased use of e-scooters too.”
Dave McLoughlin, has witnessed many changes over the 23 years he has worked at Joe Daly Cycles. “In our area at least, we have noticed a significant increase in the number of kids cycling to school,” he says, “and/or parents bringing their children to school by bike and continuing on with their commute. The cycle lanes don’t make much difference to regular cyclists, but it makes a world of a difference to the occasional cyclist, nervous beginner, or parents who don’t want their kids mixing with the traffic.”
When it comes to purchasing an e-bike, both McLoughlin and Smyth agree that converting a regular bike with a kit can be unreliable and dangerous. “The majority of conversions we see are poorly done and often entirely unroadworthy,” says McLoughlin. “The biggest risk with the dodgy e-bikes though is the fire hazard – any battery can go on fire in the wrong circumstance, but if you buy a reputable brand the risk is minimal.”
Several factors to consider when purchasing an e-bike include:
- Budget: prices vary based on battery size, motor brand, and bike features.
- Daily commute distance: ensure the battery range is suitable for your needs.
- Riding style: choose a bike with appropriate motor assistance and speed based on whether you prefer a leisurely ride or a faster pace.
- Terrain: for hills or rough paths, opt for an e-bike with front suspension and robust tyres.
- Cargo: if you’ll be carrying cargo, select a model with a sturdy cargo rack or panniers.
E-bike recommendations
- Person A: With a budget of €1,500 and a commute of 30km on flat, straight city roads, this person needs an e-bike suited to these conditions and carries only light cargo. A rear-drive motor and a 7–10Ah battery are ideal. A lightweight frame and slick, narrow tyres will minimise drag and enhance performance. RKS W6 hybrid electric bike at €1,499 is a good choice.
- Person B: With a budget of €1,800 – €2,250 and a 50km commute over varied terrain, this person should choose an e-bike with a powerful motor and sturdy frame. Front fork suspension and wider tyres will provide extra cushioning and stability on country roads. Electric Avenue C4 at €2,195 is ideal for this.
- Person C: With similar needs to Person B, but maybe deeper pockets might choose Gepida legio Pro – €3,650. This is a versatile and powerful e-bike designed for urban commuting and exploring. It features a Bosch Performance Line CX motor; the German brand synonymous with household appliances has been building e-bike motors for over ten years, and has a 500Wh battery for ample range.
With the vast improvements to urban cycle lanes, the rise of local initiatives in commuter towns and the opening of stunning greenways, there’s no better time to leave the car at home and hop on your High Nelly or e-bike.