Stomphorst thinks that convenience is the main reason why there is such a proliferation of bicycle posts in the Netherlands. “Once it’s up, it’s up,” he says. “But accidents do happen, we all want to prevent that.” But according to the spokesperson for the VVN, the responsibility does not lie solely with the road manager. “Of course, the road authority has to make it safer. But as a cyclist you can also prevent it by paying close attention,” he concludes.