Free safety training for cyclists in Helsinki

The City of Helsinki has announced that free cycling training will be made available in order to promote traffic safety. This development aligns with Helsinki’s aims to become the world’s third most bicycle-friendly city, after Copenhagen and Amsterdam.

Five cycling training classes will be provided as part of a collaboration between the Finnish capital and the Helsinki Cyclists’ Association. The classes will be provided by cycling instructor Satu Leppänen, who will teach attendees how to ride their bicycles on the main roads and among vehicles in a way that does not put them in danger.

The number of cyclists in Helsinki has recently increased. A possible explanation for this rise in numbers could be that during the COVID-19 pandemic, people opted for safer and more isolated modes of transportation. As such, Chief Police Officer Hannu Kautto encourages all cities to provide classes to help residents learn how to be safe while cycling.

In addition to increased numbers of cyclists, the police have noticed confusion and ambiguity amongst cyclists regarding recent reforms to road traffic legislation. The Police Board therefore recognised the need for training sessions to ensure both cyclists and drivers can travel in safety.

Each training session will provide the same content to ensure as many people may attend as possible. The hopes for this initiative are that the city’s cyclists will gain the necessary knowledge, as well as confidence to cycle without feeling fearful or hesitant.