46.3% of people surveyed in Vitoria-Gasteiz use a bicycle at least once a week, according to the 2026 Bicycle Barometer. Of these, 16% of all interviewed individuals use it daily. The study, conducted by the Network of Cities for the Bicycle, is based on 404 interviews in the Alava capital.
The study provides a snapshot of citizens' mobility habits and the conditions for cycling in the city. Among its findings, 95% of respondents know how to ride a bicycle and 80% own one, although 27% admit they never use it.
Speed, the ability to avoid traffic jams, and freedom of movement are the main reasons for choosing this mode of transport, mentioned by 50% of respondents. Sporting reasons follow at a distance, with 12%, and environmental reasons, with 11%.
The Environmental Studies Center and the Department of Public Space and Neighborhoods of the Vitoria-Gasteiz City Council highlight that the results show the bicycle is a common option for getting around the city. Convenience and speed for commuting, shopping, or moving between neighborhoods are some of the reasons explaining its use.
The Barometer also analyzes bicycle use for work commutes. Among those who use this mode of transport, 31% report cycling to work daily. Furthermore, among those making these journeys, 43% previously used a car, 30% traveled on foot, and 20% used the bus.
The assessment of cycling infrastructure is another highlighted aspect of the study. 97% of respondents acknowledge that Vitoria-Gasteiz has conditioned routes for cycling, and 84% consider the bike lane to be the most comfortable space for it.
However, the survey also identifies difficulties. Bicycle theft is the main concern, with 25% of responses, followed by weather (22%), risk of accidents (19%), and excessive motorized traffic (13%). Opinions are also divided on the behavior of drivers: 51% believe they respect cyclists, compared to 47% who think otherwise.
Both the CEA and the Department of Public Space and Neighborhoods believe these data help identify areas that require continued work, especially in safety and theft prevention. The goal is to improve cycling conditions and make it easier for users to park their bikes with peace of mind.
Vitoria-Gasteiz currently has over 17,000 bicycle parking spaces in public areas and 22 secure VG Biziz parking facilities with more than 1,400 spaces. Added to these resources is Mugibike, the public electric bicycle rental service. The City Council is also working on improving cycle connections and the safety of cyclists, two issues addressed in the new Sustainable Mobility and Public Space Plan 2026-2030.
