Construction of cycle tracks with cement-bound materials

Cycling is "in". The bicycle manufacturers' sales figures show an increase from 1 million to 5 million machines per year over the period from 1956 to 1980. To extend and develop a cycle track network in response to this increase is a logical consequence. Environmental protection and health-conscious behaviour patterns in the population are factors that promote this trend. Accordingly, rural and farm roads are being incorporated in a network of cycle tracks and footpaths. Moreover, the further increase in private transport is compelling traffic policy makers to segregate cyclists from motorists, in the interests of safety. The development of the cycle track network is being accomplished in a rather less spectacular way than that of the road system. Because of the lighter loads, the structural demands in terms of strength are less. All the same, road construction methods can be applied also to the construction of cycle tracks: slipforming for concrete pavements. In rural areas, however, superplasticized concrete between side forms is often employed. The mechanized laying of interlocking concrete paving blocks makes possible the economical development and improvement of cycle traCKS. Such pavings require little maintenance. The utilization value of concrete paved surfaces in cycle track construction is high.