Have you ever wondered if electric bikes (e-bikes) could be the key to getting more people cycling more often, especially women? Recent research from Norway suggests they might be.

Cycling has long been hailed as a sustainable and health-promoting mode of transport. However, various barriers—such as physical exertion, distance, and terrain—often deter individuals from adopting it as a regular activity. Enter the e-bike: a modern solution that combines the traditional benefits of cycling with the ease of electric assistance. A study from Norway’s Institute of Transport Economics sheds light on how e-bikes are influencing cycling habits, particularly among women.

The Norwegian Study: A Closer Look

The study, led by researcher Aslak Fyhri, involved 226 participants divided into two groups. The experimental group of 66 individuals was provided with e-bikes, while the control group of 160 continued using their regular bicycles. Over the study period, the e-bike group exhibited a significant increase in cycling activity:

• Frequency of Trips: Daily cycling trips rose from an average of 0.9 to 1.4 per day.
• Distance Covered: Average trip length more than doubled, from 4.8 km to 10.3 km.
• Mode Share: E-bikes accounted for nearly half of the participants’ total transportation, a notable rise considering that only about 5% of all travel in Norway is typically done by bike.

Interestingly, the impact was more pronounced among women, who not only increased their number of trips but also embraced e-biking more enthusiastically than men. Men, on the other hand, tended to undertake longer journeys once they started e-biking.

Why E-Bikes Encourage More Cycling

Several factors contribute to the increased cycling activity observed among e-bike users:

1. Reduced Physical Barriers: E-bikes provide assistance that makes tackling hills and longer distances more manageable, reducing the physical strain associated with traditional cycling.
2. Time Efficiency: With the added boost from the electric motor, cyclists can cover greater distances in less time, making e-bikes a practical option for commuting and errands.
3. Accessibility: E-bikes make cycling more accessible to a broader demographic, including those who may have physical limitations or are new to cycling.
4. Convenience: The ability to ride without excessive sweating allows riders to wear regular clothing, eliminating the need for showers or changes of clothes upon arrival.

Implications for Urban Mobility and Health

The findings from this study have significant implications:

• Urban Planning: Cities could consider integrating e-bike-friendly infrastructure to promote cycling as a viable alternative to car travel, potentially reducing traffic congestion and emissions.
• Public Health: Increased cycling activity contributes to better cardiovascular health and overall fitness, addressing sedentary lifestyle concerns.
• Gender Inclusivity: The pronounced uptake among women suggests that e-bikes could play a role in closing the gender gap in cycling participation.

Case Study: Oslo’s E-Bike Initiative

In Oslo, a pilot programme provided e-bikes to residents to assess their impact on commuting habits. Participants reported a significant shift from car usage to e-biking, with many citing the ease of use and time savings as primary motivators. The programme’s success has led to discussions about expanding e-bike access citywide.

“People travel twice as much on the electric bike [as on a regular bike], both in terms of kilometres, amount of trips, and as part of the total transportation. The effect of having an electric bike was particularly strong among women.” — Aslak Fyhri, Institute of Transport Economics

E-bikes are not just a fleeting trend; they represent a transformative shift in how we approach cycling and urban mobility. By lowering barriers and making cycling more accessible and appealing, especially to women, e-bikes have the potential to foster healthier lifestyles and more sustainable cities.

Considering an e-bike? Explore local programmes or retailers to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Join the movement towards a healthier, more sustainable mode of transport today.