Breuberg shines: Top-rated Radstadt in the Odenwaldkreis 2024!

Breuberg shines: Top-rated Radstadt in the Odenwaldkreis 2024!

The results of the ADFC bicycle climate test 2024 were presented in Berlin today, and they reveal exciting findings about bicycle-friendliness in the Odenwald district. Breuberg takes the top spot, with a solid rating of 3.68. This secures the municipality's 129th place among the 423 assessed cities and municipalities in Germany. [rheinmainverlag] reports that the cities of Höchst and Michelstadt are in second and third place.

A total of 878 citizens from the Odenwald district took part in the survey, which was carried out between September and November 2024. With the survey, the ADFC would like to provide comprehensive feedback from cyclists to traffic planners in order to improve conditions for cyclists. [fahrradklima-test.adfc.de] highlights that this survey is one of the largest in the world on bicycle friendliness.

Results in detail

Höchst finished with a rating of 3.82, while Michelstadt also received positive feedback with a score of 3.91. It is particularly pleasing that Michelstadt can show a trend towards better conditions compared to the previous year. Breuberg also impressed with the highest fun factor for cyclists in the Odenwald district. The accessibility of the city centers in Breuberg, Höchst and Michelstadt also received positive marks.

Nevertheless, as with every test, there are also suggestions for improvement: Breuberg should promote cycling more and improve the organization at construction sites. In Höchst, cyclists criticize the sub-optimal traffic light switching, while in Michelstadt both the traffic lights and the construction site routing need to be revised. The problem of illegal parking on cycle paths was also negative in the reviews.

Prejudices and security aspects

According to the results, 63% of those surveyed in the Odenwald district rarely notice conflicts between cyclists. However, 70% feel unsafe due to the insufficient safety distance when overtaking by motor vehicles. The local mobility coordinators call on municipalities to strengthen cycling and support investments in cycling infrastructure through various funding programs.

The municipalities in the middle, such as Brensbach and Oberzent, also see potential for improvement in cleaning and winter service on cycle paths. What is striking is the high participation rate from Mossautal, which was awarded fourth place in Hesse and nationwide.

In summary, it can be said that despite the positive results and progress recorded in the Odenwald district, there is still a need for action. The ADFC bicycle climate test, supported by the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport, shows important perspectives on how cities can further optimize their cycling infrastructure. [rnd.de] reminds that the average rating of bike-friendliness in Germany is 3.92, which shows that a continuous improvement process is needed.