Como Mayor Bans Bikes in Historic Centre After Collision

Mayor Alessandro Rapinese announced that cyclists will have to dismount and walk through roughly 30 streets in the walled historic centre of Como. The measure, which takes effect in September, applies to all bicycles, including e-bikes and push-bikes, because Italy’s highway code does not distinguish between the two. The ban follows a 2022 prohibition on rented e-scooters in the same area. Authorities say the restriction is intended to protect pedestrians in a zone that attracts large numbers of tourists.

The Guardian

In June, Rapinese was struck by an electric bike while leaving city hall, an incident that prompted him to propose the ban. Rapinese argued that the rule is necessary for public safety, noting that other cities have acted only after severe injuries, whereas he was not hospitalized.

The Guardian

The proposal has drawn swift criticism from resident groups, local politicians and civic organisations. Vincenzo Falanga, president of the Nova Como civic group that is organising a protest ride, accused the administration of turning an individual problem into a collective one. The Como branch of the centre-left Democratic Party warned that the ban penalises residents, workers and those who rely on low-cost, environmentally-friendly transport. Critics also point out that several of the affected streets are among the widest in the centre, providing a natural route toward Lake Como, and that the restriction could hinder delivery riders and shop owners who depend on bicycles for supplies.

The Guardian

Supporters, including Rapinese, contend that the measure addresses a safety gap not covered by existing traffic rules. Opponents argue that the city should focus on curbing reckless riding rather than restricting an entire mode of transport. The ban is set to be tested in mid-September when cyclists plan a protest ride through the designated streets.

The Guardian