The popularity of cycling in Malta as a sport, a means of commuting, and as a way of exploring the island of Malta is on the increase. In recent years, the Maltese authorities, most notably the Malta Transport Authority, have worked hard to make this activity more accessible and safer.
Cycling is firmly ingrained in Maltese cultural heritage. As you would expect in an island whose official religion is Roman Catholic and where an estimated 95 percent profess to belong to this religion, cycling also features prominently in religious celebrations.
Most notably, the village feast of Ħaż-Żabbar, which is held annually on the first Sunday after the 8 September, features a motorcycle and bicycle pilgrimage each starting from Mosta and Rabat respectively. This is because the Ħaż-Żabbar church is dedicated to “Our Lady of Grace” (Madonna tal-Grazzja), who is also the patron of cyclists.
Photo: Hundreds of bikers hail to Ħaż-Żabbar for pilgrimage for Our Lady
The island's small size – Malta's land area is just over 316 square kilometres – makes its easily accessible by bike.
Indeed, an increasing number of areas in the capital, Valletta, and elsewhere are being pedestrianized, making cycling the ideal means of visiting them. Despite its size, however, Malta's topography is quite hilly, and cycling may be quite challenging in some areas.
Photo: Bike Adventure in the North of Malta with Malta By Bike
In 2006, the Malta Transport Authority introduced bicycle lanes to promote and encourage more people to use bicycles as a greener alternative to private car use, although cyclists do not normally use the lanes due to unsafe surfaces, mainly attributed to poor planning. Although initially motorists did not always respect these lanes, the situation has improved significantly. Cyclists are also allowed to use bus lanes. However, cycling is not allowed in tunnels. The few cycle lanes tend to end and start abruptly. They rarely follow regular commuting routes and do not seem to be maintained very regularly. Sliema local council forbids cycling along its promenade However, despite citing the support of sustainable and non-polluting modes of transport, there is no cohesive and specific national programme aimed at encouraging cycling.
Photo: Mġarr bicycle lane
Conditions for cyclists on the road are improving although cyclists should remain wary as to which routes to use and which to avoid. Cycling on main roads may at times be dangerous. Due to Malta's party scene and poor drunk driving record, early morning rides during weekends are particularly dangerous. Children on bikes and users of motorized bicycles are legally required to wear cycling helmets.
Road conditions themselves are improving although potholes and lack of proper surfacing, especially in smaller towns, remain an issue.
Photo: Bicycle Lanes
The Malta Transport Authority has installed a number of bicycle parking bays in various spots around the island, particularly, in tourist areas.
While bicycle theft in Malta is not high, the usual precautions of locking the bike should be taken.
Photo: Sheffield type bicycle racks at the University of Malta.
With no trains and no underground, buses are the main means of public transport in Malta. The Maltese Government has privatized the public bus system. It is currently not possible to transport bicycles on public buses. However, it is possible to schedule the transportation of bicycles to any location in Malta.
Photo: Tallinja Bike is a bike-sharing system that operates in Malta and Gozo.