Encouraging more people to cycle involves more than just improving cycle lanes, according to research from Malmö University. The study emphasizes that urban planners should take into account factors beyond infrastructure to attract a broader range of people to cycling.

The research focused on residents in the Swedish cities of Gothenburg and Malmö, surveying 1,145 people. Questions covered various aspects, including the availability of different transportation options at home, travel habits, attitudes toward cycling, and considerations such as safety. By delving into these factors, the study sheds light on the diverse elements that influence people’s decisions to embrace cycling.

“If you want more groups to cycle, you can’t just build more cycle paths,” the author explains.

Encouraging cycling

According to the study’s author, the likelihood of cycling is influenced by factors such as accessibility, knowledge, and attitudes. The research aims to uncover the reasons behind people’s choices to cycle or opt for other modes of transportation. Are concerns like fear or certain beliefs steering individuals away from cycling?

The study reveals a connection between higher income and a greater potential for cycling. For instance, possessing a smartphone becomes essential for locating app-managed municipal bicycle docking stations. Additionally, age, health, and household type play roles in determining cycling potential. Older individuals, for example, exhibit lower potential for cycling, often finding bicycles less suitable for their needs and abilities. The research also highlights gender differences, with men generally reporting higher cycling skills than women.

The author suggests that urban planners can leverage new technologies to accommodate cyclists with varying physical abilities, ensuring inclusivity for individuals who may not share the same capabilities as younger people.

“Cyclists are not a homogenous group, and today there are many types of bikes that can make cycling easier for people with different abilities,” they conclude.

“It therefore needs to be recognized that there is a range of needs and preferences among cyclists. Those who need assistance to go out should perhaps be offered help. You may be able to afford to buy an electric bike, but you also need to feel that it’s safe to cycle. There is a range of needs and preferences to consider.”