Determinants of Bicycle Commuting Propensity: Findings from a Questionnaire-Based Investigation in Barcelona, Spain

The current study (of the TAPAS project) aimed to ascertain which factors, both psychological (mental) and physical (practical), were acting as the greatest determinants for bicycle commuting propensity of the working (or studying) population of Barcelona, Spain. Methods: Adults [N=795; 51% female, 87% nationals. Mean ± standard deviation: age = 37 ± 10, body mass index = 23.5 ± 3.3] who commuted to work or school in Barcelona responded to a comprehensive questionnaire (via telephone) concerning their commute activity and attitude. Respondents were categorised as either frequent or infrequent cyclists, or willing or unwilling non-cyclists, with self-reported data analysed via binomial logistical regression models adjusted for confounders of age, gender, nationality and education level. Results: The greatest psychological barriers to bicycle commuting participation of non-cyclists were the risk of suffering an accident [OR (95% CI) = 0.67 (0.49, 0.91)] and the difficulty to maintain personal appearance [0.63 (0.44, 0.88)], while increased availability of bicycle lanes [1.64(1.18, 2.29)] and bicycle parking infrastructure [1.59 (1.12, 2.25)] were the greatest physical motivators. Further, the greatest physical determinants of bicycle commuting frequency for cyclists were the difficulty of transporting objects [0.51 (0.28, 0.90)] and the flexibility and freedom [1.50 (1.27, 1.95)] using a bicycle compared to other modes. Conclusion: To facilitate an increase in bicycle commuting propensity, infrastructure (such as dedicated bicycle lanes for safer commute conditions) and end-of-trip facilities (such as bicycle parking and locker rooms for efficient workplace integration) for bicycle commuters need to be properly considered and further developed by policy-makers and authorities.