Last Friday I teamed up with Davíð Arnar Stefánsson, Master student in geography, fellow cyclist and blogger, giving a talk at the yearly research conference of the Icelandic Roads Administration. We presented our research project, about the quality of cycling routes in the Greater Reykjavík area. This was the only presentation at the conference that centred on cycling, which reflects the fact that it has not really been taken seriously as a mode of transport. And certainly not outside of the city. One almost feels sorry for those brave souls who cycle the country's narrow roads in summer. No cycle paths there, not even paved shoulders on the roads. On the other hand, riding paths are becoming a common sight alongside the roads. Does this reflect the differing power of these two lobby groups – horse riders and cyclists – or does the non-consideration of cycling simply reflect of the attitudes of road engineers?