Modelling and influencing cycling behavior

Cycling is one of the most sustainable modes of transport, increasing in its popularity. Thus, it is important to consider cyclists in the research on future urban traffic. Cycling should be efficient, safe and satisfying from a cyclist’s perspective. Consequently, we need to know with which priorities cyclists choose their routes and what they prefer as routes in order to build appropriate cycling infrastructure.

Previous studies already identified several route attributes like travel time and volume of adjacent motor traffic, as well as route criteria like safety and comfort, both of which influence cyclists route choice. Still, previous literature has not yet focused so much on the differentiation between the motivational and deterrent influence of each attribute, nor on the specific meaning of those criteria.

In this doctoral project, cyclists’ route choice with a focus on how cyclists evaluate cycling infrastructure and infrastructural characteristics are investigated. Using a mixed method approach with interviews, questionnaires and simulator studies, the aim is to examine the relevant psychological constructs that underlie the decision for or against a route with certain characteristics.