Rediscovering the bicycle potential: cycle tourism as a key part of its success.

Abstract

Bicycle has old origin in the past and over the years has known different evolution phases; from a social symbol of richness and entertainments for aristocrats to a common object which everyone can afford. Indeed, the diffusion of cars and the lower price of bicycle has changed completely its role being nowadays just one of many modes of transport available to people. However, in the last years, the increasing price of oil and the world economic crisis, has led to reconsider the use of bicycle; in addition, environmental issues are bringing more and more the attention of European Union making the theme of sustainable mobility central on the European Agenda. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the new role of bicycle, considered not only as a mean for urban mobility but also as a valid alternative for a holiday. Many of the the leisure tourists have changed their demand for them. The mass tourism of the 60’s and 70’s and its continual demand for sun, sand and relaxation has been re-placed in the 90’s by a request for more varied and active holidays. Many tourists of today want to be stimulated, educated and inspired. For these reasons, the paper wants to demonstrate the increasing importance of this phenomenon and the necessity and opportunity of investments in this industry. Thus, before introducing this new way of travel and the infrastructures that make it possible, the first chapter recalls the history of bicycle, its social role during the centuries and the recent re-discover, presenting also its benefits for different stakeholders. As it will emerge from the analysis, the presence of the necessary infrastructures is and will be the key factor of the real development regarding this mode of transport. Moreover, intermodality could allow bicycle to increase its attractiveness creating at the same time important synergies with other mode of transport.