Attributes of Perceived Bikeability in a Compact Urban Neighborhood Based on Qualitative Multi-Methods

HaeLi Kang, Dong Ha Kim and Seunghyun Yoo
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HaeLi Kang: Department of Health Care Policy Research, Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs, 370 Sicheong-daero, Sejong-si 30147, Korea
Dong Ha Kim: Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
Seunghyun Yoo: Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea

IJERPH, 2019, vol. 16, issue 19, 1-16

Abstract: Cycling provides opportunities to promote healthy and sustainable cities. However, few studies examine cyclists’ perceived attributes of a bicycle-friendly environment in relation to compact urban contexts. This study explored the attributes of perceived bikeability and urban context related to the cycling experience in Seoul, Korea. Purposive sampling with public recruitment and a snowball technique was used to recruit twenty-two cyclists and three bicycle-related community service providers from a bikeable environment. Qualitative multi-methods, including semi-structured interviews and bicycle tours with a GPS device, were adopted. The main themes of perceived bikeability were derived through thematic analysis. Cyclists perceived the attributes of a bicycle-friendly physical environment as essential components of bikeability. In urban environments where cycling is not yet recognized as the main transportation mode, internal conflict among cyclists and external conflicts between cyclists and other transportation users were evident. A supportive community system included developing an appropriate environment, providing information, and expanding riding opportunities. A bicycle-friendly culture accumulated over a long period influenced the initiation and maintenance of cycling and contributed to a more bikeable community environment. Cyclists’ attitude, behaviors, and perceived environment differed according to purpose. Policy, system, and environmental changes are required to promote cycling in compact urban contexts.

Keywords: bikeability; cycling; qualitative research; urban health; active transportation; Korea (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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