Cycling & Greenwashing — What’s Real and What’s Marketing?
Last Updated: November 25, 2025
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Is Cycling Really as “Green” as Companies Claim?
Here’s the truth from someone who’s ridden for over 150,000 miles: cycling itself is green—but the cycling industry isn’t always honest about it. Corporations and governments know cycling has a great public image, and they want to attach themselves to it. Sometimes they earn that association. Sometimes they don’t.
That disconnect is the heart of the greenwashing problem. And if you’re a regular cyclist—especially a senior rider trying to live a healthy life—you deserve the truth so you can support companies and products that actually do right by riders and the planet.
How Cycling Gets Greenwashed
1. Polluting Companies Sponsoring Cycling Teams & Events
It happens every year. An oil, gas, or plastic-heavy corporation slaps its logo on a race, a pro team, or a charity ride. The message: “Look at us—we support sustainable transportation!”
The reality? They’re still pumping out emissions while paying a small fee to borrow cycling’s good reputation.
2. Governments Talking Big While Funding Cars
I’ve lived long enough to see this pattern again and again: cities brag about being bike-friendly, promote “greener transportation,” then dump 98% of their budget into car infrastructure. Meanwhile, cyclists dodge potholes and pray drivers with tinted windows see them at intersections.
That’s not sustainability. That’s PR.
3. Manufacturers Making Overstated “Eco Claims”
Some companies really are trying. Others? They’ll hype a tiny recycled part as if the entire bike is built from earth-friendly magic. If a company claims sustainability without giving numbers, details, or percentages, be suspicious.
So What Can a Cyclist Do?
You don’t need to be perfect. You don’t need a bamboo bike or a compostable jersey. Just make informed choices. Here are practical steps:
- Research who sponsors the events you support.
- Check how much your local government invests in real cycling infrastructure.
- Be skeptical of vague “recycled material” claims without numbers.
The goal isn’t purity—it’s awareness.
What Actually Works (No Hype, No Greenwashing)
Here’s gear I trust after decades on the road. Not because it’s marketed as eco-friendly, but because it actually works and keeps riders safe—especially older riders like me who can’t afford a crash.
👉 Giro Fixture II MIPS Helmet — lightweight, safe, no nonsense.
Check price
👉 Premium UV Arm Sleeves — zero marketing fluff, actual sun protection.
See options
👉 High-Lumen Tail Light — if drivers can’t see you, nothing else matters.
Brightest budget pick
👉 Wahoo ELEMNT BOLT V3 — honest navigation, not overhyped gimmicks.
Check price
👉 Bib Shorts I Actually Wear — comfort that keeps older riders going.
See my top choices
Internal Links to Posts That Go Deeper
- Is 30 Minutes of Cycling a Day Enough to Lose Weight?
- Should a 70-Year-Old Ride a Bike?
- Cycling Visibility Tips for Low Light & Traffic
- Top Lightweight Commuter Bikes
FAQ
Is cycling still a good choice for seniors?
Absolutely. Cycling is joint-friendly, low-impact, and keeps your heart, lungs, and mood strong. Greenwashing doesn’t change the benefits.
Does buying “eco-friendly” gear matter?
Yes—but only if the claims are real. Focus on gear that keeps you riding longer and safer rather than chasing marketing buzzwords.
How can I tell if a company is genuinely sustainable?
Look for specifics: recycled percentage, CO₂ numbers, materials breakdown, or third-party certifications. If they won’t give details, assume it’s fluff.
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