Public transportation, especially in major cities, offers convenience and ease afforded to both residents and tourists alike. Though crowded trains and buses were not a point of concern merely three years ago at this time, a recent study has found that since the worldwide epidemic many people have found alternative ways to get to their destination.
World Bike Day by VanMoof and YouGov partnered together to better comprehend the changing outlook on people's transit. The study surveyed over 3,000 adults who live in the largest cities in Europe and North America. It was found that almost half of the individuals believed increased safety measures would encourage them to bicycle more. A third stated they believe their needs to be less bike theft and more cycle lanes on busy roads.
Yet prior to COVID-19 a survey by Future Cities found that only 20% said cycling would be their “preferred mode of transportation” while commuting back and forth to work and school. However, VanMoof and YouGov found that 46% of millennials and generation Z seem to value the notion of their city prioritizing bicycle use. Meanwhile, almost half (only 24%) of those over the age of 55 shared the same view.
Furthermore, electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular with 18-34 year olds. More than a third stated they would switch from their former mode of transportation to using an e-bike for “short journeys” across the city. Still, even with differing viewpoints on the advantages of cycling being a significant form of transportation, there's one overwhelming conclusion. In conclusion, despite promising numbers, cities across North America and Europe lack the proper infrastructure to promote cycling as a safe mode of transit.