The pedal power of Minneapolis has been recognized on a global scale as the city secured a top spot in the Copenhagenize Index, a benchmark of the most bike-friendly cities worldwide. The latest 2025 edition of the index places Minneapolis as the second best biking city in the U.S., fifth in North America, and 44th globally. Acknowledging the city's commitment to cycling, Mayor Jacob Frey commented, "In Minneapolis, biking is part of our DNA — it shapes how we design our streets and how we invest in our future," as reported by the City of Minneapolis official news.
Efforts toward enhancing bike infrastructure in the city have not gone unnoticed, as City Council President Elliott Payne—himself a full-time biker—points to strong policy and deliberate planning as the drivers behind this achievement. In the City of Minneapolis, where the Bryant Avenue bicycle infrastructure project stands out as a "model of safe, green, and inclusive street design," the council has made it clear that making Minneapolis safer for biking is personal as well as a communal triumph. According to the Copenhagenize Index, Minneapolis has utilized major roadway reconstruction as terrains to instigate safer, more equitable streets.
Recognition for Minneapolis’s dedication to cycling also comes from other organizations. It snagged the number two slot in the Best Places to Bike among Large U.S. Cities in the 2025 PeopleForBikes City Ratings and a Gold-level Bicycle Friendly Community accolade from the League of American Bicyclists. Council Member Katie Cashman from Ward 7 celebrates the international recognition for the Bryant Avenue project, stating, "It’s especially exciting to see the Bryant Ave design get international recognition. It’s further proof that bike friendly infrastructure is the way of the future!"
The City of Minneapolis boasts an impressive 89 miles of trails, 36 miles of curb-protected bikeways and paths, and more than 140 miles of painted bike lanes. In the past year alone, Minneapolis expanded its bike network, improving a range of areas including 1st Avenue NE, Hennepin Avenue, and University Avenue SE. Minneapolis residents have shown their approval by setting new records in the shared bike and scooter program, taking 1.8 million rides over 1.8 million miles. Director of Public Works, Tim Sexton, emphasized the city’s vision, stating, "In Minneapolis, biking isn't an alternative – it's a primary mode of transportation. This ranking reflects our commitment to designing and building a city where everyone can safely walk or bike around the city with confidence, joy, and ease," Minneapolis’ news release articulated.
