Source: Fietsberaad

A recent study utilizing data from the Mobility Panel Netherlands has established a connection between the perceived quality of cycling infrastructure and the distances people cycle.

Researchers from Southeast University in China and University College London found that individuals who rate their local cycling infrastructure as higher in quality tend to cycle longer distances over time.

Study findings

These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers aiming to promote cycling as a primary mode of transportation.The research, published in the scientific journal Transportation Research Part D in January 2025, analyzed longitudinal data from over 1,200 participants between 2013 and 2016. It examined the causal relationship between individuals’ perceptions of cycling infrastructure, their preference for cycling, and the distances they traveled by bicycle.

A key finding of the study is that a higher perceived quality of cycling infrastructure corresponds with increased cycling distances one year later. At an individual level, those who view their local cycling network more favorably tend to develop a stronger preference for cycling, leading to greater travel distances by bike. While cycling preferences and distances remain relatively stable over time, perceptions of infrastructure quality appear to be more susceptible to change.

Policy implications

These insights provide a basis for urban planners and policymakers to improve cycling infrastructure and enhance public awareness of its benefits. However, researchers caution that the impact of such improvements may take several years to become evident.

The study also highlights disparities in perception across demographic groups. Women and individuals with lower incomes generally rate cycling infrastructure quality lower than other groups. For infrastructure improvements to encourage these populations to cycle more frequently, changes must be visibly substantial and meaningful.

Moreover, while past research has identified a correlation between cycling behavior and an individual’s preference for cycling, it has not established a direct causal link between changes in preference and increased cycling activity. This suggests that efforts to influence cycling behavior should focus on tangible infrastructure improvements rather than solely promoting cycling as a desirable activity.

Background and methodology

The Mobility Panel Netherlands provided the data for this study. This panel tracks mobility trends through annual three-day travel diaries completed by 6,000 randomly selected Dutch residents aged 12 and older. By leveraging this extensive dataset, researchers gained deeper insights into cycling behavior and the factors that influence individuals’ willingness to cycle more frequently.

The study’s findings contribute to a broader understanding of how infrastructure influences mobility choices. By focusing on improving cycling networks and ensuring accessibility for all users, policymakers can create more sustainable urban environments that encourage cycling as a viable and attractive transportation option.

The full study can be accessed here.