The recent Bikespot survey has shed light on the most pressing concerns for cyclists across Australia, providing valuable insights for road and path asset managers. With over 72,000 submissions from 10,530 individuals, the survey offers a comprehensive snapshot of the current state of bicycle infrastructure.
Key Findings from the Survey
- Demographics: The majority of respondents were male (68%), followed by female (28%). Most participants were aged 35-39, with Victoria accounting for 51% of submissions, Queensland 13% and NSW 13%.
- Cycling Habits: A significant 51% of respondents identified as commuters, highlighting the importance of safe cycling infrastructure for daily journeys.
- Infrastructure Issues: Painted bike lanes and poor road surfaces emerged amongst the most common complaints, accounting for 18% and 9.4% of all submissions, respectively.
The Impact of Poor Road Surfaces
Poor surfaces were rated as a major concern by respondents, with a score of 3.22 on a scale of 1 (best) to 5 (worst). Interestingly, there was minimal difference in reporting poor surfaces between male and female riders, despite their different risk and behavioural characteristics.
Addressing the Problem using OmniGrip PF and OmniGrip CST
OmniGrip offers effective solutions to mitigate the risks associated with poor road surfaces for bike riders:
- OmniGrip PF: A long-life skid-resistant surface pothole fix, designed to enhance the safety of bike lanes and paths as well as roads, regardless of the underlying material (asphalt or green surface treatment). Each long-life repair can be dressed with a skid-resistant surfacing material to match the surrounding road surface; for example, Australian recycled aggregate.
- OmniGrip CST: A skid and slip resistant high-performance, colored surface treatment made from Australian crushed recycled aggregate. Green OmniGrip CST is used extensively for bike lanes in Victoria and Queensland.
The Benefits of OmniGrip PF and CST
- Enhanced Safety: OmniGrip Direct’s surface treatments provide superior grip and reduce the risk of slips and falls.
- Cost-Effective: Investing in OmniGrip delivers long-term cost savings by reducing the need for frequent repairs and maintenance.
- Sustainability: OmniGrip CST incorporates recycled materials, contributing to a more environmentally friendly infrastructure.
- Durability: Built to last, OmniGrip solutions withstand the rigors of daily use from high traffic volumes, including in bus lanes, as well as harsh weather conditions.
A Call to Action for Infrastructure Managers
The BikeSpot survey underscores the urgent need for improvements in bicycle infrastructure across Australia. By incorporating OmniGrip Direct’s solutions into their maintenance plans, road and path asset managers can create safer, more enjoyable cycling environments for commuters and recreational riders alike at a lower lifecycle cost.
Discover More About OmniGrip PF and OmniGrip CST
To learn more about how OmniGrip Direct can help improve bike safety in your community, contact our team directly.
Reference: BikeSpot Survey National Report, accessed 10 September 2024