How dangerous is cycling in New Zealand?

- Fear of cycling is prevalent in car-dominated transport systems.
- We estimate injury rates per typical exposure to a range of activities, including cycling.
- Cycling on the road in New Zealand is safer than horse riding, snow sports and rugby.
- Fear of cycling stems most likely from the marginal status of this mode of travel.

We compared the injury risks of typical exposures to road cycling for transport with other common activities including do-it-yourself repairs (DIY) at home, horse riding, quad bike riding, rugby union and snow sports in New Zealand. Cycling on the road half an hour three times a week was similar to DIY twice a month and safer than horse riding 1.5 h twice a week (5-fold difference in injury claims), skiing half a day for 4-5 times per year (140-fold), and playing rugby once every 3 weeks (530-fold difference). In statistical terms, based on moderate injuries, cycling is less dangerous than many recreational and every day activities. We conclude that fear of cycling in car-dependent New Zealand arises mainly from other causes than risk of injury, associated with the marginal status of cyclists on the public road.