From bike to electric bike level-of-service

Abstract

The evaluation of electric bike (e-bike) riders' perception of comfort can lead to a better understanding of user requirements. This can be performed through Level-of-service (LOS) studies. To date, the e-bike LOS (ELOS) concept is scarcely developed and research concerning e-bike travel behaviour characteristics is relatively sparse. In this paper, we use bike LOS (BLOS) studies as a foundation to identify the knowledge gap for ELOS. Along with BLOS, e-bike riding comfort and the distinction between bikes and e-bikes characteristics were scrutinised. Travel behaviour, and e-bike modal substitution research were also reviewed to provide a better picture of e-bike riders' requirements. Based on these domains, we propose a preliminary conceptual framework for the development of ELOS. The results suggest that there is a limited number of studies that whether explicitly evaluate ELOS or consider the e-bike in the BLOS analysis. Also, the extent of substitution of cars, public transport, and bikes by e-bikes can range from partial to complete replacement, thus potentially affecting ELOS developments. The specification of this substitution contributes to a deeper understanding of the ELOS concept in relation to the adaptation of LOS indices used for other transport modes. Finally, it appears evident that ELOS developments would require further research on e-bike interaction analysis in shared mobility in which vulnerable road users are present. The findings of this study help researchers and policy-makers assessing the knowledge gap in ELOS and provide them a preliminary conceptual framework for ELOS development.

Could It Be a Bike for Everyone? The Electric Bicycle in Poland

“…Foremost among these are unfavourable weather conditions [28][29][30][31] and the resulting perception of the bicycle as a seasonal means of transport [32], large differences in terrain [33,34], lack of sufficiently developed infrastructure [20,35], too long a distance [36] and travel time [37], or physical limitations of the traveller preventing longer-distance travel [34]. The trend observed in recent years in cycling and active mobility in general shows that electric assistance is playing an increasingly important role in this type of transport [38,39]. This extends the group of bicycle users [40][41][42], includes people hitherto excluded from this mode of transport [43,44], and increases its range [7,[45][46][47][48].…”

Analysis of Mutual Influence Relationships of Purchase Intention Factors of Electric Bicycles: Application of DEMATEL Taking into Account Information Uncertainty and Expert Confidence

“…In addition, government policy and regulations can also protect consumers from purchasing electric bicycles at reasonable prices, avoid malicious price hikes by electric bicycle manufacturers, and establish a fairtrading environment for consumers [35]. When consumers purchase electric bicycles, the government provides friendly policies and regulations to subsidize consumers and operators, helping to increase the popularity and purchase rate of electric bicycles [17].…”

“…Electric bicycles are in line with the trend of sustainable development with the advantages of energy saving and carbon reduction which can effectively reduce air pollution, boost simple and effortless riding without a driver's license It is gradually becoming the new choice of human mobility. Electric bicycles are regarded as the rising star of the bicycle industry [17]. Electric bicycles have a speed limit of 24 km/h, which can avoid speeding, and is more secure for the elderly in terms of speed control and safety.…”

A Decision Support System for Placing Shared E-Scooters: A Case Study for Istanbul

“…Thus, bicycle-sharing systems began to become widespread in the 2000s. According to the research conducted by Plazier, Weitkamp, and van den Berg (2017) ebike users are seeking for faster rides, simple use, comfortable bike riding experience with electrical power assistance, and freedom from the time schedules of public transit (Kazemzadeh & Ronchi, 2021). Beside these parameters, people may prefer e-bikes in daily use compared to traditional bikes since they do not cause joint pain, sweat, and fatigue of the user.…”