Momentum Magazine recently revisited the 1973 Scientific American article that first declared the bicycle “the most efficient form of human transport.” While it might not seem like it when you are grinding up a steep climb or wrapping up a long ride, in addition to being fun, great exercise, and environmentally low impact, bicycling is also the most efficient form of human transport!
Per the article, “More than half a century after Scientific American first declared the bicycle “the most efficient form of human transport,” the magazine has confirmed that the humble two-wheeled dream machine still reigns supreme. Scientific American has revisited its iconic 1973 graph—and the results hold: the bicycle remains the planet’s most energy-efficient mode of transport.“
Citing bicycle design and benefits, the author (S. S. Wilson) of the original 1973 Scientific American article called the bicycle “the most benevolent of machines.” Additionally, more than 50 years ago Wilson outlined practical ways to encourage cycling, many of which are now best practices in active transportation planning:
- cycleways to reduce conflicts with automobiles
- bicycle parking stations
- transport of bikes by rail and bus
- public bicycles for “park and pedal” services
adventureECO Cycling 