Beer Bikes: Coming Soon to America

As European bike culture spreads across America, get ready for the next import from Amsterdam - the Beer Bike.

1 minute read

June 1, 2012, 10:00 AM PDT

By Jonathan Nettler @nettsj


Yes, it may be a bit early to start getting ready for the weekend, but we felt this story could help set the tone. Sally McGrane reports on the pub on wheels phenomenon, powered by pedals and frothy suds, that is spreading across Europe and America.

"In recent years, the contraption, variously promoted as a social lubricant; an original, environmentally correct way to see a city; and a healthier, calorie-burning alternative to sitting in a bar, has expanded its appeal beyond the Dutch border to several European countries and the United States."

"Exactly why beer bikes carry such appeal is still something of a mystery," writes McGrane. "There is the beer, of course, which for some is reason enough. For many, it is the combination of partying and pedaling, which accomplishes a special kind of bonding."

Wednesday, May 30, 2012 in The New York Times

courses user

As someone new to the planning field, Planetizen has been the perfect host guiding me into planning and our complex modern challenges. Corey D, Transportation Planner

As someone new to the planning field, Planetizen has been the perfect host guiding me into planning and our complex modern challenges.

Corey D, Transportation Planner

Ready to give your planning career a boost?

View of dense apartment buildings on Seattle waterfront with high-rise buildings in background.

Seattle Legalizes Co-Living

A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.

December 1, 2024 - Smart Cities Dive

Times Square in New York City empty during the Covid-19 pandemic.

NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project

Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.

December 1, 2024 - StreetsBlog NYC

'Vertical canyon' on glass-clad residential high-rise in Denver, CO.

Denver's New High-Rise Integrates Vertical Canyon in Architectural Design

Unlike other new builds in Denver, Colorado, a new high-rise reveals a unique “sculptural canyon” running vertically through the facade to foster a sense of community and connection to nature.  

November 29, 2024 - designboom

Close-up of black electric bike with person resting one foot on ground and holding blue helmet.

California E-Bike Rebate Program Launches — Again

After a series of fits and starts, CARB says the program will begin accepting applications this month.

6 hours ago - Streetsblog California

Vintage multi-story brick apartment building and modern concrete and glass apartment building separated by a steep public stairway in Los Angeles, California.

Analysis: Localized Upzoning Less Effective

Changing zoning rules for a small number of parcels can increase land values and housing costs without boosting the housing supply.

7 hours ago - Governing

Acela Amtrak train in station in New Haven, Connecticut.

Amtrak Breaks Ridership Record in FY 2024

More Americans than ever rode the rails last year, also bringing the agency its highest ticket revenue.

December 5 - Smart Cities Dive

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.

Planning for Universal Design

Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.