During a recent investigation of the state of Oulu’s bike paths organized by the Student Union of the University of Oulu, a group of cyclists found several flaws in the city’s bike route system. Signposts were singled out as a major problem. The complaints centered on the fact that signposts were either missing at critical junctures or that they were often vandalized beyond recognition.
Other problems cited were inadequately marked pedestrian crossings and the general poor level of safety for cyclists in traffic. Along the city-wide cycling routes, the group found visual obstructions and high pavement curbs, among others impediments. Sampo Rissanen of the Student Union Council says that the findings will be passed on to the city with the hope of improving the condition of the paths in Oulu.
About a dozen enthusiastic cyclists took part in the event. The route went from Linnanmaa to the city centrum via Syynimaa and Alppila, a popular route for students commuting to the University by bike.
On the return route, the group passed through Tuira and Puolivälinkangas, another widely used route. Markku Eilola-Jokivirta, who participated in the happening, still considers Oulu one of the top biking cities in Finland – a few flaws notwithstanding, of course.