Break the grid, a week of ModeShift

Last week the ModeShift festival was organized in Winnipeg for the second time. I had the honor to be the guest of managing director Anders Swanson of Winnipeg trails all week to follow this thrilling week from close by. A week with many varied activities for a varied target group that does justice to the inhabitants of this Canadian city with brutal cycling circumstances. A week that I conclude with hope and excitement for a better future for active modes in Winnipeg.

The friendly competition continues

At the end of the meteorological summer, @bijnanooit closed his 10 year practical research into getting wet during his cycling commute. He started his project based upon the idea that facts must convince people and recording his experiences Would help them to get tot he idea it almost never rains. Through media coverage during short wet periods, he gradually understood his message would have little impact on changing habits in commuter traffic. He is preaching to the choir, people who have been cycling see their confirmation by his data, while the non-cyclists mainly pay attention to @bijnanooit when it rains. Nevertheless, I welcome his efforts over the years and hope his website will remain available for future use. Many small stories like his can contribute to the big story about cycling as an happy and effective means of transport.

Where to go pre- or post Velo-City?

Overwhelmed by the wide choice you can make for extra events arranged around Velo-City 2017 in the Netherlands, some people asked me to clarify the program and give them advice. Of course I am happy to help them and you to make the best of your visit of the Netherlands. So I drew this simple flowchart to question your interests and guide you to the appropriate choice. Of course it is my personal grouping, keep your personal preferences in mind and choose whatever you want. Early bird registration ends at the end of Februari, subscription to pre- and post events is limited!

Click to enlarge

To your comfort I made an additional map of the Netherlands with all activities pinpointed on location and date. As you have to arrange the travels yourself to and from these locations, it might be helpful to know where to go. Most locations are easily accessible by train.

Just in case people wonder what I will be doing: Probably I will cycle Monday 12th in the morning to Arnhem. The Dutch Cycling Embassy and the Cycling Embassy Denmark will have a special meeting in the afternoon. Stay tuned for more news and start your registration for the best cycling conference in Europe. Meanwhile I will enjoy the Winter Cycling Congress in Canada.

UPDATE of May 23: Some events have been canceled due to too low interest, so I updated my flowchart.