LEVER researchers Cherry and Ling (UTK) and Macarthur (PSU), along with industry partner Weinert (Bosch), studied the differences in the cycling experience and perceptions between an e-bike and conventional bicycle users, using samples drawn from independent bicycle dealer customers. A total of 806 respondents in the United States took the online survey, including 363 e-bike-owning respondents. The results show that e-bikes play a more critical role in utilitarian travel, such as commuting and running errands, than conventional bicycles. Conventional bicycle-owning respondents use their bicycles more for recreation and exercise. Also, e-bike owners tend to bike longer distances and take more trips per week. Both e-bike and bicycle respondents stated that improved health was a key factor for cycling, while Millennials and Generation X respondents cycle to save time and improve the environment. These findings provide insight and a profile of potential new markets for e-bikes in the United States.

Publication:
Differences of Cycling Experiences and Perceptions between E-Bike and Bicycle Users in the United States