This study describes the significance of various road related factors for cyclists' accident risk, accessibility, comfort and decision whether or not to cycle. Four focus group meetings with cyclists from Linköping and Umeå were held, following an interview guide with six principal areas: avoidance of obstacles, the cycle ride takes longer than necessary, or longer than usual/planned, increased stress, safety risk, and the decision whether or not to cycle. Apart from the principal areas in the interview guide, the participants' comments were grouped under the categories maintenance, geometric design, other road users, traffic rules and other matters. For the safety risk, other road users and geometric design appeared to have the greatest significance, as well as shortcomings in maintenance. Exercise and wellbeing were the chief reasons to cycle. Maintenance is also significant for the decision to cycle, mainly in the winter, but this chiefly applies on the part of those who regularly cycle in their daily decision. To promote cycle traffic it is essential to enhance the competitiveness of the cycle by improving accessibility and making travel times shorter for cyclists. This mainly requires a direct and continuous cycle path network. Maintenance of high standard has a more immediate effect on accessibility during short periods, and it is important in retaining the existing cyclists.