ABSTRACT
In Mataram City cycling occupies less than 5 per cent of all modes of travel. However, the Covid-19 pandemic has opened the prospect of cycling in a short period of time. This chapter explores the barriers and opportunities of promoting cycling in Mataram City. By using the multi-level governance as a framework, this chapter analysed the power of soft and hard infrastructure. The power of hard infrastructure identifies the role of cycle lanes and cycle parking facilities in the city. The power of soft infrastructure includes the perceptions of people about cycling, the cycling culture in the city and planning mechanisms to promoting cycling. This study used semi-structured interviews with professionals and conducted an online survey for detailed analysis. The research shows that Mataram City is relatively small in size with a density that makes the city ideal for cycling. However, the spatial structure and population composition can only be beneficial if the hard and soft infrastructure can be improved in the city. The Covid-19 lockdown clearly demonstrated that people are keen to use cycling in low-traffic environments. However, it is important to turn this trend into a more permanent one by acknowledging existing cycling users and raising profiles of cyclists in the city. In conclusion, Covid-19 provides a unique opportunity in Mataram to develop cycling policies, regulations and investment plans that will untap the social, economic and environmental benefits cycling can bring to the city.
