Cycling in China Not more than a decade ago, the majority of young people and adults in China reached for their bicycles whenever they wanted to make a short journey. Today,especially in the towns, the number is falling fast. In Beijing, it is estimated that 60 % of all journeys used to be on a bicycle and crowds of cyclists thronged the main roads. Today, although the proportion of people who cycle is still quite large especially in comparison with other countries, the figure has begun to fall. joozone.com There are of course a number of different reasons for this.The bus services have improved and the subway system is expanding, making it easier for people to find other means of transport. A few people have been lucky enough to be able to buy cars and there are also many more taxis on the roads. Another reason for the decline in bicycle use is a result of China's economic growth. Nowadays, many people are earning higher salaries than in the past and they are willing to spend a little of this money on getting to and from their place of work.