Cyclists' Perception of Maintenance and Operation of Cycling Infrastructure—Results From a Norwegian Survey

Aasvik, Ole; Bjørnskau, Torkel · 2021 · Crossref

DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.696317

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Summary

This study investigates how cyclists in Norway perceive the maintenance and operation (M&O) of cycling infrastructure, specifically examining how these perceptions vary by demographic groups and geography. The research is motivated by Norwegian political goals to limit car use in urban areas and increase cycling shares to combat climate change and improve public health. While infrastructure construction is prioritized, the authors argue that proper M&O—such as snow plowing, salt application, and surface repair—is critical for safety, comfort, and mode choice, particularly for vulnerable groups like women and older adults. The study aims to identify which M&O factors different demographic groups perceive positively or negatively to inform future infrastructure management strategies. The researchers conducted a nationwide cross-sectional survey in the summer of 2019, recruiting 2,376 regular cyclists through various channels, including social media, cyclist associations, and municipal emails. The sample included 55% males, with age groups distributed across under 40, 40–49, 50–59, and over 60. Participants reported on their experiences with specific M&O issues, including salt usage, snow plowing satisfaction, and the problematic nature of glass shards and potholes. They also reported on behavioral outcomes, such as whether they forfeited cycling due to poor conditions and their frequency of winter cycling. The study employed hierarchical logistic regression models to analyze the relationships between demographic variables (gender, age, bike type, cycling frequency) and geographical location with these perceptions and behaviors, controlling for multiple comparisons. The results reveal significant demographic and geographical differences in cyclist perceptions. Contrary to the hypothesis that older cyclists are more affected by poor conditions, the study found that younger cyclists reported being more affected by holes and bumps, while older cyclists were less affected, potentially due to self-selection bias in survey participation. Female cyclists reported suffering more from adverse conditions than males, and males were more likely to cycle during winter. Geographically, respondents from Oslo and Trondheim were more critical of salt usage, while those from Buskerud and Tromsø were less satisfied with snow plowing. E-bike users were more susceptible to accidents involving road conditions and potholes compared to other bike types. Furthermore, cycling frequency was a strong predictor of negative outcomes; frequent cyclists were more likely to report accidents influenced by conditions and to forfeit cycling due to poor infrastructure. The study concludes that M&O significantly impacts cycling behavior and safety, with effects varying by gender, age, and location. The findings suggest that improved winter maintenance and surface quality could mitigate the deterrent effects of poor conditions, particularly for women and less experienced cyclists. The authors imply that targeted M&O strategies, rather than one-size-fits-all approaches, are necessary to support the shift toward active mobility. By addressing specific grievances such as salt damage and uneven surfaces, authorities can enhance the perceived safety and accessibility of cycling, thereby helping to achieve national goals for increased bicycle ridership.

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• cyclist safety