The Impact of Geographical Context and the Built Environment on Individual Perception of Bikeability

Bicycles are receiving growing interest for their potential to address key challenges in urban mobility and environmental sustainability, while also providing significant health benefits and generating positive externalities, such as reducing fatalities (Marshall and Ferenchak 2019). These benefits are currently motivating administrative bodies at various levels (e.g., the European Commission, 2024; MIMS, 2022; Lombardy Region, 2014) to develop plans and policy initiatives aimed at fostering bike-friendly environments and routes, with the overall goal of increasing cycling levels. The approach adopted for designing cycling policies and actions is generally supply-oriented, focusing on promoting accessibility and connectivity within cycling networks. However, as designing transitions from the macro level (supranational, national, or regional) to the micro level (municipal or neighbourhood), this approach should be expanded to include user-related considerations. Notably, the scientific literature has shown perceptions of the built environment characteristics as significantly influential factors for bike choice, intention to use, and cycling enjoyment. Ignoring user perceptions and their variability across different groups risks leading to inequitable policies and actions, potentially exacerbating spatial disparities in bicycle usage or cycling enjoyment. This study examines the factors influencing bikeability perception, defined as the perceived quality of a bike trip, with a focus on geographic context (small vs. large cities; urban, extra-urban, or dedicated bike paths) and perception of the built environment. Specifically, the research questions driving the study are: i) What built environment factors influence bikeability perception? ii) Are there statistically significant differences in bikeability perception based on the geographic context of the bike trip? To answer these questions, Revealed Preference data have been collected in the Lombardy Region, including the Milan metropolitan area (Italy). These have been analysed using discrete choice models (namely, Hybrid Choice Models). Among all factors, the results show that bikeability is influenced by perceptions of conflict with motorized vehicles, the quality of urban spaces—including greenery—and the quality of bike paths, including cycling infrastructure and lighting. Additionally, individual perceptions of physical and mental stress play a key role in shaping the overall cycling experience. Geographical differences also emerged; for instance, cyclists in highly populated cities perceive a higher level of conflict with motorized vehicles compared to those in less populated areas. Moreover, mental fatigue tends to be more influential when cycling in extra-urban contexts. Findings from the study provide valuable insights for designing cycling infrastructure and urban spaces, enhancing cycling safety perceptions, and ultimately promoting spatially equitable bikeability.