WELLINGTON, Feb. 18 (Xinhuanet) -- Cyclists have proved they may hold the solution to Auckland's gridlock traffic dilemma after outdoing bus and racing car drivers in the Auckland Commuter Challenge Wednesday.

    According to New Zealand Herald, the four simultaneous races - between bicycles, buses and cars - started at 7.35 a.m. from north,south, east and west Auckland of New Zealand.

    The bicycles won easily with an average time of 26.51 minutes each. The cars came in second with an average of 31.32 minutes while buses came in 21.78 minutes behind them.

    The overall winner was cyclist and TV3 presenter and producer Jon Bridges, 37. The challenge, organised by Cycle Action Auckland,was the first of its kind.

    Events coordinator Leonard Bloksberg said if more people used their bikes rather than cars it would reduce the congestion crisisthe region is currently facing.

    According to Transfund 6 percent of commuters travel by bike orfoot, 7 percent by public transport and the rest in their cars.

    In 2003 there were 366 motorists deaths, seven cyclists and no bus riders. Enditem