CREDIT: PAUL KRUEGER \ FLICKR
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A New Cyclist Typology Testing and re-thinking urban cyclist typologies with a data-driven approach BY LAURA CABRAL UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA BACKGROUND
Different Types of Cyclists Cyclists are not a monolithic group; in fact, it is well recognized that cyclists have different motivations for riding and different infrastructure needs. Starting with FHWA’s ‘ABC’ cyclists (Advanced, Basic, Children) in the 1990s, several cyclist typologies have been developed over time to try to understand who cyclists are and what conditions they need to thrive. One of the more popular typologies is the Four Types of Cyclists developed by Portland’s Bicycle Coordinator, Roger Geller. The No Way No How, Interested but Concerned, Enthused and Confident and Strong and Fearless have become ubiquitous both in academic literature and in practice, where they have been adopted or adapted to guide numerous cycling policies. Although the names are quite descriptive, it is worth reviewing who the four types are. The No Way No How are not interested in cycling for transportation and likely not keen to cycle at all. They may also not have the physical ability to cycle. The Interested but Concerned may or may not be current cyclists. They are weary of interactions with motorized traffic, but they do not rule out cycling for transportation if appropriate infrastructure is provided. The Enthused and Confident are quite comfortable riders, but they appreciate some infrastructure on busy roads. Finally, the Strong and Fearless can ride in almost any traffic condition.
First in 2013, then in 2016, Jennifer Dill and Nathan McNeil from Portland State University formalized a survey to classify respondents in the four cyclist categories using three variables: a comfort rating of different infrastructure descriptions, an intent rating (“I would like to travel by bike more than I do now”), and whether the respondent cycled in the last 30 days. The method is easy to apply as it is rule-based. For example, a person who declares being very comfortable on major streets with two lanes in each direction and no bike lane would automatically be classified as Strong and Fearless.
PROBLEM
Limitations of the Four Types of Cyclists Typology While the Four Types of Cyclists typology enjoys widespread popularity, it presents important and documented caveats. One of the most important limitations stems from the inception of the typology. It was imagined by Roger Geller based on his knowledge and experience as a transportation professional. This subjective development means the typology was imposed on the population rather than being developed from it using empirical evidence. The rule-based method developed at Portland State University also creates discrepancies. For example, we would expect cyclists who are more confident to ride more often than those who are not as confident. However, we often find the Strong and Fearless cycle less, on average, than Interested but Concerned cyclists. Continued on page 25... SUMMER 2019 | TRANSPORTATION TALK
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