Numbered-node cycle network

The numbered-node cycle network (Dutch: fietsknooppuntennetwerk; German: Knotenpunktbezogene Wegweisung/Knotenpunktsystem für Radwanderern [formal] and Radeln nach Zahlen ["bike-by-numbers", informal][1]) is a wayfinding system.

Areas on the numbered-node network cite substantial economic benefits, including revenues from increased bike tourism.

The numbered-node network is more flexible than previous signage systems, which only indicated long, pre-determined routes.

Bollen worked as a mine engineer from 1971 to 1990, and then joined Regionaal Landschap Kempen en Maasland (RLKM).

Rumours notwithstanding, the numbering was not inspired by a wayfinding system from the mines, nor by the London Underground.

Bollen said in a 2017 interview that the choice was straight logic: he needed to label each intersection, and using town names would have caused chaos, and there weren't enough letters in the alphabet, so he used numbers.

[2] RLKM estimates that the network brings 16.5 million euros of revenue to Kempen (Campine) in Maarsland annually.

Paper, downloaded or roadside maps simplify changing route when plans, weather, etc.

[3] As with rest areas alongside car routes, bike numbered-node networks are designed and upgraded for access to roadside services, such as public toilets, accommodation, food and drink.

[17] Some points have official signpost stickers giving instructions for submitting comments or finding out more about the location.

[3] In Germany, there is a one- to two-digit system; as in the Netherlands, it is organized at the national level (by the FGSV),[20] but signs are usually implemented by local tourist boards.

[16][3] The Netherlands and Belgium have signs set at or below cyclist eye-level, with minimal, large, text[3] (readable without slowing down).

[22] There is a principle in the Netherlands that cyclists should not be slowed or stopped; a constant speed is more comfortable and efficient, and makes for shorter travel times.