Usage Differences Between Bikes and E-Bikes

A high share of bicycle traffic in urban areas can be advantageous in order to tackle traffic related problems such as congestion, over-crowded public transportation or air pollution. Through an increased dissemination of e-bikes in recent years, cycling has become a viable transportation alternative for an even broader audience. The consequences of this trend on urban mobility are not yet clear. In order to get a clearer picture, one first needs to understand the major usage differences between e-bikers and cyclists. In this paper we demonstrate how a first insight into these differences can be gained by analysing GPS tracking data, recorded within the context of a field study. E-bikers as well as conventional cyclists prefer riding on any kind of bike trail whilst e-bikers rather choose bike trail types with a larger exposure to vehicular traffic. Taking a minimal distance route was the most important route choice factor for both cyclists and e-bikers. E-bikers perceived their rides to be slightly more safe and convenient as compared to conventional cyclists.