Yeay! Please welcome Jakarta’s newest permanent bicycle lanes! In February, permanent bike lanes were installed along Sudirman. As we all have witnessed, since last year, public interest in cycling has been growing exponentially. In the guidebook released by Dewan Transportasi Kota Jakarta, Bike2Work Indonesia and other institutes reveals that the amount of sales and cyclists in Jakarta was increased by 250% to this day. With this permanent lane installation, it’s no wonder that people’s enthusiasm towards cycling will only grow as time goes on.

Permanent bicycle lane in Jakarta. Source: Berita Jakarta

This increasing cycling trend is not at all surprising especially during this time, when people are becoming more mindful with their state of health. People are slowly switching lanes to options that are much healthier and cycling is one of those healthier options to choose. We all know the positive benefits of cycling like the back of our hand. Besides being environmentally friendly, cycling makes our body move more actively and ultimately, it will  make us feel refreshed and healthier.

With the presence of permanent bike lanes in Jakarta, there are many people who have been switching their option for commuting. A lot of people have been cycling to work instead of using their usual personal vehicle. So, how does that sound, Smartcitizen? Are you considering taking your bike to the road, too? If so, as a smart citizen, you need to understand the rules of cycling on the road. Find your guide for safe and comfortable cycling here!

Take a Closer Look At Your Bike

Source: Panduan Bersepeda

Just like meeting someone for the first time, we need to understand their characters so that we give each other a pleasant impression. That idea also applies when you decide to start cycling. Before taking your bike down the road, you have to examine the condition of your bicycle. Who knows that there are parts that need to be replaced or repaired first. To have a safe and exciting cycling experience, always make sure that every component of your bike works optimally.

Essential Equipments You Need to Prepare

Your safety is an absolute point that should always be on your top priority. Therefore, you should never brush aside the importance of wearing personal protective equipment such as helmets. Beside helmets, there are several other equipment that you need to prepare before cycling, such as bright-colored clothes, comfortable footwear, and a reflective vest if you are cycling when the sun is already set.

Cycling Etiquette

All roads in Jakarta belong to the citizens of Jakarta and we all have the equal rights in using it. That being said, the only right thing to do is to respect each other's rights as road users. As a bicycle user, you’re prohibited to break through the road carelessly, and as a vehicle user, never be a reason for someone to get injured. Here are some key points that you need to remember and do when cycling on the road:

1. When using a permanent bicycle lane, keep a minimum distance of 1.5 meters from other vehicles.