A study of nearly 35,000 routes to work revealed that people were most likely to choose to cycle when traffic speeds along their route were under 20mph.
Although roads with a high volume of traffic also dissuade cycling, the study by researchers at the University of Surrey found that traffic speed is the greater issue, particularly for women, who are reportedly already under-represented in cycling.
The research team also found that cycle paths encourage higher levels of cycling, but their effectiveness depends on local traffic conditions. The team’s findings, which looked at routes to work in Surrey, UK, could help local authorities identify where best to separate cycle and motor vehicle routes to encourage more cycling.
Routes crossing busy roads also deter potential cyclists. Results showed that commuters are less likely to cycle if their route to work crosses roads with traffic that is both fast-moving and high volume. Surprisingly, the proportion of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) on roads or at junctions showed little impact on commuters’ willingness to cycle.
The study, published in the International Journal of Sustainable Transportation, analysed traffic data for all roads and cycle routes in Surrey to look at how different vehicle speeds, volumes, the proportion of HGVs, and the amount of cycling infrastructure along the shortest route to work corresponded with the proportion of commuters choosing to cycle.
It also considered distance, hilliness and the effect of traffic crossing the route at junctions. In total it examined nearly 35,000 routes to work for 172,000 commuters living in Surrey and who lived between 2-5km from work – a distance that should be cyclable for many.
The University of Surrey’s Dr Susan Hughes, who develops and applies computer models relating to the science of the environment, said: “Cutting speeds may be unpopular with drivers, but our research shows it does encourage people onto their bikes.
“It’s a change which, if implemented strategically, may encourage more people to cycle, with the added benefit on people’s health from reduced carbon emissions.”
According to Dr Nick Grudgings, the lead author, the Surrey research could help town planners identify what interventions would be most effective and where they should be placed.
“Our findings can help local authorities make the best decisions about where to invest in cycling infrastructure,” said Grudgings.
“More cycling doesn’t just mean towns and cities are reducing their CO2 emissions, it also means commuters are keeping active and reducing their risk of heart disease, depression and premature mortality.”
