Rio de Janeiro on two wheels

an analysis of cycle paths in the south zone and surrounding areas

Abstract

This article presents the initial results of a research project on cycling infrastructure in the city of Rio de Janeiro, with a current focus on the South Zone neighborhoods and their surroundings over the past three decades. The study combines a brief theoretical review, analysis of secondary data, interviews, and photographic records to assess the distribution, quality, and effectiveness of the various types of cycling infrastructure implemented, such as segregated bike lanes, cycle tracks, bike routes, and shared streets. The results indicate quantitative progress but also reveal territorial inequalities, shortcomings in integration with public transportation, lack of adequate green infrastructure, and institutional limitations. The study concludes that consolidating a safe, accessible, and equitable cycling system requires integrated and fair planning, political continuity, and ecological criteria.