First, an article about which types of bike facilities are statistically safer (at least according the the research in Toronto and Vancouver.) This article also mentions research on the types of facilities that bicyclists prefer. As many can imagine, this research generated many comments. http://www.theatlanticcities.com/commute/2012/10/dedicated-bike-lanes-can-cut-cycling-injuries-half/3654/
A second article is sort of a complement to the one one above. Researchers followed experienced bicyclists in Portland, OR, to see what routes they actually took (for transportation.) http://www.theatlanticcities.com/commute/2012/10/whats-best-way-figure-out-what-bike-riders-really-want/3684/ For the second one, lots of interesting tidbits here, but also lots of caveats. Portland has many more route choices, and also better bike facilities overall than many US cities. The study also followed experienced bicyclists, which is a much different sample than novice or potential bicyclists. But to me, the results make sense. We don't like hills. We prefer a straight, direct route to one with lots of turns, and we know the shortest route by heart. And really, even though most of us can ride easily in traffic (I'm speaking for those on this list), we'd prefer to be away from the noise, stink, and stress of cars if there is an equally reasonable route. Robbie Webber Transportation Policy Analyst State Smart Transportation Initiative www.ssti.us 608-263-9984 (o) [email protected]
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