Use of E-Bike and Consequences on Modes of Transport

New research shows interesting results when it comes to the use of e-bikes. In the Netherlands, more and more people have begun to use this vehicle in recent years. During the research period, two major aspect have been researched. What is the effect is of the e-bike on groups of users and  on other modes of transport?

Researchers are registering a change in e-bike usage. E-bikes are no longer a vehicle for people over 65. Other age categories are now riding e-bikes as well. The share of the +65 group is declining.

In their analysis, the researchers distinguish 5 user groups. This is based on gender, age, education level, working situation and the composition of households. User groups vary from mainly older and retired people using the e-bike as a leisure vehicle to groups of middle-aged workers and groups of underaged/students.

These groups are using e-bikes for different purposes. The ‘older’ groups use the e-bike mainly for leisure activities and shopping, whilst the other groups mainly use it for commuting and going to school.

Due to the increased usage of e-bikes, people tend to walk less and to reduce the use of  a conventional bike. This is what the research is concluding based on data of the Dutch Mobilitypanel  (MPN). As for commuting, the e-bike replaces conventional bikes and cars, whilst for shopping and leisure activities ebikes replace conventional bikes.

The research conducted by ‘Kennisinstituut voor mobiliteitsbeleid (KIM)’ is here