Tag Archive: research

  1. Belgian Cycling Factory strengthens leadership for Nukeproof

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    Source: Cycling Industry News

    Belgian Cycling Factory (BCF) has reinforced the leadership structure of its mountain bike brand Nukeproof with two senior appointments in Clive Gosling and Russell Merry.

    Clive Gosling has been named Global Brand Director, bringing with him extensive industry experience and what the company describes as a “proven passion for building brands.”

    “I am thrilled to be joining Nukeproof as Global Brand Director. Honouring the heritage of such a cool brand while unlocking its global commercial opportunity is a huge responsibility. But we’re starting with a blank sheet and zero baggage, so I’m excited to help shape the future of this legendary brand with such a passionate and experienced team,” said Gosling.

    Alongside him, Russell Merry, currently Managing Director of Belgian Cycling Factory UK, has been appointed Global General Manager. In this expanded role, Merry will oversee Nukeproof’s worldwide operations.

    “The word that keeps coming up is opportunity, and what an incredible one this is. To bring Nukeproof home and have the freedom to make it one of the most significant mountain bike brands globally will be hugely rewarding. I know I have the foundations of a team that will deliver,” Merry commented.

    Leadership consolidated in the UK

    The dual appointments will allow BCF to centralise the brand’s leadership in the UK. Gosling and Merry will work closely with Senior Product Manager Steve Jamison and Lead Engineer Dale McMullan to spearhead product development, innovation, and overall brand management.

    “With this strong leadership team in place and the brand’s full management back in the UK, I’m convinced that combined with BCF’s strengths — we will succeed,” said Jochim Aerts, CEO of Belgian Cycling Factory.

    Expanding UK presence

    These changes follow the launch of BCF’s UK office, which officially opened on 1 July 2025. The new hub is designed to provide independent dealers with improved service levels, stronger brand representation, and a more agile supply chain tailored to the UK and Irish markets.

    The appointments also build on BCF’s earlier acquisition of Nukeproof from Frasers Group, part of the deal that included Wiggle CRC. At the time, the company called the purchase a “significant step” in strengthening its commitment to high-performance cycling. From Q3, Nukeproof products have been made available through BCF’s dealer and distribution network.

  2. E-bike ownership and commuting use expanding across demographics in the Netherlands

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    Source: Fietsberaad

    Electric bicycle use for commuting is increasing across a broader segment of the Dutch population, with differences among age, gender, education, and income groups gradually narrowing.

    This trend is supported by research conducted by Eindhoven University of Technology, based on national travel data collected between 2014 and 2021. While electric bike usage is observed throughout the Netherlands, it is particularly prevalent in rural areas.

    The study analyzed data from the “Survey of Travel in the Netherlands” (OViN) and “Underway in the Netherlands” (ODiN), focusing specifically on commuting trips made with various transport modes, including privately owned pedal-assist electric bicycles.

    Trends in ownership

    The proportion of Dutch households owning an electric bicycle increased steadily between 2014 and 2021, with a noticeable acceleration during the COVID-19 pandemic. E-bike ownership has historically been associated with certain socio-economic characteristics, such as higher income levels and households that also own a car, but these associations have become less pronounced over time. Smaller households continue to show higher rates of e-bike ownership compared to larger households, although this gap is also narrowing.

    Geographic location plays a role in ownership patterns. Residents in rural areas are more likely to own electric bicycles compared to those in urban settings. Factors such as the availability of alternative transport options and greater accessibility in cities may influence this difference. Nonetheless, ownership is on the rise across both urban and rural regions.

    Commuting patterns

    Commuting by e-bike has increased among all age groups. Although the highest usage remains among individuals aged 60 and older, growth is evident among people under 40. This shift may reflect changing perceptions of e-bikes as a suitable commuting option, possibly influenced by the pandemic, which positioned the e-bike as a viable alternative to public transportation.

    Differences in usage based on gender and education persist; women and individuals with higher education levels continue to use e-bikes more frequently, but these disparities are also diminishing. Most commuting trips by e-bike cover distances up to 10 kilometers. Usage is less common for routes with high accessibility, though this is becoming a less significant factor over time.

    Policy implications

    The findings provide insights into the evolving dynamics of e-bike ownership and commuting use, which may support the development of targeted transportation and environmental policies. As e-bikes gain popularity across a wider range of demographic groups, infrastructure developments, such as expanded charging facilities at homes and workplaces, may become increasingly necessary.

    Researchers emphasise that e-bikes should no longer be considered a niche form of transport limited to older adults, higher-income households, or specific education levels. Instead, they are becoming a mainstream commuting option. The study also suggests that initiatives to promote e-bike use may yield more impact in rural areas, where both ownership and usage are currently more prevalent.

    Read the full study here.

  3. Contribute to research on the impact of EU battery regulations on the e-bike sector

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    Source: Nieuwsfiets

    The e-bike industry is approaching a period of significant change with the upcoming implementation of the new EU Battery Regulation. A research project by an Avans University of Applied Sciences student explores the regulation’s potential impact.

    As part of a graduation project for the Technical Business Administration program at Avans University of Applied Sciences, student Kaat Kerckhaert is examining how this regulation may affect collaboration among e-bike manufacturers, distributors, and battery service providers.

    Kerckhaert is currently completing her internship at Heskon, a battery repair and refurbishment company based in Tilburg. Heskon has worked with industry players such as Greenway, Phyllion, Darfon, QWIC, and Tenways. The research aims to identify the criteria – such as legal requirements, certifications, and quality standards – that manufacturers consider when selecting partners for battery revision, repair, or replacement. The study also looks at additional factors like reliability, sustainability, and brand positioning.

    Invitation to participate

    Professionals from the e-bike sector, including brands, manufacturers, and battery distributors, are invited to take part in a brief survey in either Dutch or English. The findings will offer insights that may support strategic decision-making and contribute to the ongoing development of battery services in the industry.

    For more information on how you can contribute to the research, or for any queries, please email Kaat Kerckhaert: kfl.kerckhaert@student.avans.nl.

  4. Exploring new energy roles for electric scooter batteries in smart cities

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    Source: Tech Xplore

    As global cities aim to achieve net-zero carbon emissions, integrating sustainable transport with smart energy systems remains a critical challenge. A recent study published in Sustainable Cities and Society by researchers from National Taiwan University, led by Associate Professor I-Yun Lisa Hsieh, examines how Taiwan’s electric scooter infrastructure could contribute to this effort.

    The study focuses on the battery-swapping stations that support Taiwan’s widespread use of electric scooters. These stations enable users to exchange depleted batteries for charged ones, streamlining scooter use and encouraging adoption. The researchers explored whether these stations could also act as decentralized energy storage units, contributing to the resilience of urban power systems.

    By simulating the integration of battery-swapping stations into a Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) system, the team assessed their potential to store excess electricity, such as solar energy generated during the day, and release it back to the grid during periods of high demand. While V2G strategies have been explored primarily for electric cars, this study is among the first to investigate their application to two-wheeled vehicles.

    Results indicated that incorporating V2G into Taiwan’s battery-swapping network improved grid stability. Many stations could operate independently during peak hours, reducing pressure on the overall energy system. However, the researchers noted that V2G integration alone does not guarantee reduced carbon emissions. Without an emissions-focused management approach, the system could inadvertently increase emissions under certain conditions.

    The study also highlighted a geographic variation: rural stations, which tend to have more idle batteries, demonstrated better performance in energy flow management and cost reduction compared to urban stations. This suggests that V2G applications may be beneficial in both densely populated and less urbanized areas.

    The researchers conclude that, with appropriate emissions management strategies, electric scooter battery-swapping infrastructure could support not only transportation but also energy sustainability goals in smart cities.

    Click here to read the research article in full.

  5. ERTRAC call for papers for TRA 2026 conference

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    Source: TRA

    Innovative transportation researchers are invited to submit abstracts about their industry contributions for the upcoming TRA event which will take place in Budapest, Hungary.

    The European Road Transport Research Advisory Council (ERTRAC) unites road transport stakeholders in building a common vision for the development of European transport research and invites researchers to participate in the Transport Research Arena (TRA), a flagship event created by the European Commission and various technology platforms, bringing together academics, practitioners, leading mobility experts and fresh research talent.

    The next edition of the biennial conference will take place on May 18-21, 2026 and will also feature exciting demonstrations, innovative exhibitions, technical tours, award ceremonies and social events.

    TRA conference topics and selection timeline

    Preparation is underway to uncover significant contributions to Europe’s transportation sector, with the event presenting an opportunity for researchers to share their work based on the following topics: user centred mobility, green mobility and decarbonization, planning and operation, and transport digitalization.

    • Interested participants are invited to submit an abstract of 200 words by 15th June 2025 for the first round of selection.
    • Successful submitters from the first selection round will then be asked to submit a conference paper of up to 4,000 words by 15th September 2025.
    • Then successful conference applicants will be notified on 31st January 2026, with their final papers to be submitted by 31st March 2026.

    More information about the event can be viewed on the TRA website or abstracts can be submitted directly here.

  6. Research reveals that riding an e-scooter is a light-intensity physical activity

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    Source: Journal of Transport & Health

    E-scooters are outpacing cars but fall short of walking for exercise intensity.

    A recent study sheds light on the physical activity benefits of e-scooters, an increasingly popular form of micromobility. Researchers evaluated the metabolic energy expenditure and muscle activation of riding e-scooters compared to walking and driving. The findings suggest that while e-scooters provide light physical activity, they fall short of the moderate physical activity associated with walking.

    Methodology

    The study involved 20 participants aged 21–41 in a controlled crossover experiment. Researchers measured metabolic physical activity in METs (Metabolic Equivalent of Task) during a fixed course and assessed muscle activation during typical maneuvers. MET values, often used to quantify energy expenditure over time, were compared across e-scooter riding, walking, and driving.

    Key findings

    • Energy expenditure: Riding an e-scooter generated an energy expenditure of 2.14 METs, which is classified as light physical activity. This level was significantly higher than driving a car (1.42 METs) but lower than walking (3.12 METs).
    • Muscle activation: E-scooter use resulted in greater muscle activation in the arms and trunk than both driving and walking, with higher engagement across all muscle groups compared to driving.
    • Activity intensity: While driving is sedentary, e-scooters offer a light-intensity alternative, and walking remains a moderate-intensity activity.

    Implications

    The study highlights that e-scooters can contribute to physical activity when replacing sedentary modes of travel like driving. However, replacing walking with e-scooter use could reduce overall transportation-related physical activity. The findings suggest a nuanced approach to integrating e-scooters into urban mobility strategies, balancing convenience and health benefits.

    As cities continue to promote micromobility, the physical activity impacts of e-scooters provide an important consideration for sustainable and health-conscious transportation planning.

  7. Does darkness influence Cycling? Research from Flanders (Belgium)

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    Source: Fietsberaad

    A recent study published in Transport Policy has provided insight into the factors that may influence people’s decisions to cycle when it’s dark, addressing an often overlooked aspect of urban planning and transportation policies. As cycling continues to grow in popularity as an eco-friendly and health-conscious mode of transportation, understanding the barriers to cycling in different conditions is crucial for creating safer and more inclusive cities.

    Darkness as a barrier

    Darkness poses a significant barrier to cycling primarily due to the increased risk of accidents and a heightened sense of social insecurity. While much research has been done into factors that influence cycling, including socio-demographic factors, darkness has rarely been studied. This study, conducted in East Flanders, Belgium, fills this gap by exploring the decision making process for cyclists in relation to darkness.

    Methodology

    The researchers employed a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data to provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue. They surveyed 842 cyclists and conducted 26 in-depth, semi-structured interviews to identify the factors that influence the likelihood of cycling in the dark. The analysis revealed several key insights into how different groups of people approach cycling after dark.

    Key Findings: Who Cycles in the Dark?

    One of the study’s significant findings is that familiarity with a route increases the likelihood of cycling in the dark. Cyclists who regularly use a particular route are more confident and likely to continue using it even when visibility is low.

    Age and life stage also play a crucial role. Elderly individuals and retirees are less likely to cycle in the dark compared to younger people, especially those aged 11 to 17. This younger age group often cycles to school early in the morning, sometimes accompanied by a parent. On the other hand, people who ride racing bikes, often cycling in groups, are less likely to venture out in the dark, preferring daylight hours for recreational and sportive activities.

    Interestingly, the type of bicycle also influences cycling habits in the dark. Cyclists using e-bikes and speed pedelecs are more likely to cycle in low-light conditions compared to those using regular bikes. This may be due to the increased speed and convenience these bikes offer, making them more appealing even when visibility is reduced.

    Gender differences also emerged as a significant factor. Women are 84% less likely to cycle in the dark compared to men, primarily due to concerns about social safety. The perception of danger in dark conditions is a strong deterrent, highlighting the need for better lighting and safety measures to encourage more women to cycle.

    The study also found that living in a rural environment positively impacts the likelihood of cycling in the dark compared to urban areas. This may be due to lower traffic volumes and a greater sense of familiarity and safety in rural areas.

    Implications for urban planning and policy

    To increase cycling rates in the dark, cities need to focus on creating a cycling culture that prioritizes safety and inclusivity. This includes designing and implementing infrastructure that addresses the needs of vulnerable groups, such as women and the elderly, and ensures safe and well-lit routes for all cyclists.

    A holistic approach to urban planning is essential, integrating these elements to create environments where cycling can thrive regardless of the time of day. By understanding the diverse factors that influence cycling in the dark, policymakers can develop targeted strategies to overcome these barriers and promote cycling as a safe and viable option for all.

  8. Motivation to use smart e-bikes varies by country

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    Source: Fietsberaad Crow

    Research conducted by the University of Twente reveals that the acceptance of the smart e-bike, a technology still under development, varies across countries and user demographics. While participants from five European countries generally rated functionality as the most important factor, Dutch respondents placed higher value on the enjoyment of using the bike. The findings provide policymakers with valuable insights on how to promote the adoption of smart e-bikes.

    The smart e-bike was developed in response to rising concerns about the risks and severity of accidents involving e-cyclists. This bike alerts riders to potential collisions, communicates with infrastructure to provide quicker green lights, and suggests safe routes. In the event of a serious crash, the bike automatically notifies emergency services.

    Visual representation of a smart e-bike.

    The questionnaire

    To aid in the technical development and implementation of the smart e-bike, University of Twente researchers conducted a study on user acceptance. Between November 2022 and January 2023, they surveyed 1,589 respondents from the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Austria, and Greece—countries selected for their varying cycling infrastructure quality, bicycle usage, and cycling safety. The participants either used an e-bike or speed pedelec or were interested in purchasing one, with more than half of the respondents from the Netherlands.

    Findings

    The study found that the key factors driving acceptance of the smart e-bike are functionality, user enjoyment, and enhanced safety. For Dutch participants, enjoyment ranked higher than functionality, followed by social influence—the visibility of others using the bike. Acceptance is also higher among individuals over 60 years old or those who have experienced a bicycle accident. Familiarity with the technology contributes positively to acceptance, while poor cycling infrastructure and higher levels of education, likely due to greater car access, negatively impact it.

    Implications

    The insights from this research can help technology developers enhance the features of the smart e-bike that drive higher acceptance. For policymakers, the results highlight which aspects of the smart e-bike should be emphasized in future promotion efforts. When designing practical tests and encouraging adoption, it’s crucial to consider national context and the motivations of different target groups.

    Read the full study here.

  9. Half a million jobs attributed to the German bicycle industry

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    The T3 Transportation Think Tank and bicycle trade association Zukunft Fahrrad have announced their study on Germany’s bicycle industry in the context of its economy from 2019-2023.

    Source: Zukunft Fahrrad

    The study has been cited as the first of its kind in documenting the overall effect of Germany’s bike industry on employment. It revealed that although Germany’s economy experienced a difficult time in 2023, its bicycle sector remained resilient with increases in sales and employment.

    It has been reported that approximately 491,000 employees serve the German bicycle sector through the trade, manufacturing, service sectors and cycling tourism, and found that an employment increased from 2022-2023, with direct employment in bicycle trade, manufacturing and services rising from 75,100 to 77,500.

    E-bikes and bicycle leasing helping to provide stability

    Services have been standouts in improving economic growth in the trade with a 25% employment increase, and a 23% turnover increase. Company bicycle leasing has also helped industry growth for higher value e-bikes, and increasing e-bike popularity as a whole has been significant for economic growth.

    Wasilis von Rauch, Zukunft Fahrrad’s Managing Director comments on the study’s significance for Germany, “The 2024 industry study measures the bicycle industry even more extensively than in previous years. And it shows the economic factor that the bicycle has in Germany. Around half a million people find employment as a result. Germany’s future is already riding on two wheels,”.