Tel Aviv's journey to becoming the hippest cycling city

Not so long ago, the idea of promoting cycling was a source of hilarity for Tel Aviv's politicians. Now it is part of the city's culture - but there are still many problems to tackle, from chaotic streets to the summer 'sweat factor'

When four Israeli cyclists suggested to the Tel Aviv city council in 1994 that it might be a clever idea to promote the bicycle as a new mode of transport, they were met with laughter.

"They were told that cycling was something for third world nations," says Yotam Avizohar, director of the Israel Bicycle Association. "The council official said: 'Tel Aviv is a modern city. We only promote sophisticated transport solutions. Very soon we will have a light rail system.'"