Assessment methods for bicycle environment safety and comfort: A scoping review

Abstract

Bicycle use is associated with health benefits due to increased physical activity. Encouraging cycling in cities requires the establishment of supportive infrastructure. Various assessment methods have been developed to evaluate bicycle infrastructures' safety, comfort, and efficiency. This scoping review provides an overview of the methods used to assess bicycle infrastructure, as reported in relevant studies. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in three scientific databases (Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar) using the PRISMA guideline extension for scoping the reviews. The retrieved articles were screened, coded, and synthesized according to the eligibility criteria. Fifty-five articles met the criteria and were included in the scoping review. The assessment methodologies primarily focused on four aspects: vibration or roughness index, Bicycle Level of Service (BLOS), Bikeability Index (BI), and Bicycle Safety Index (BSI). Questionnaires (evaluation platforms), bicycles, GIS, and video cameras were the most commonly used equipment/resources. Roughness index assessments relied on objective data, such as acceleration values, and some studies validated their findings using cyclists' subjective comfort perception. On the other hand, subjective data were predominantly used for BLOS assessment. The BIs present a more comprehensive analysis of bicycles by including more components of bicycle infrastructure design. Methodologies have been developed to evaluate various aspects of the bicycle infrastructure. However, selecting appropriate methods for specific contexts cannot be undermined. This review article provides a helpful guide on selecting an appropriate methodology for the unique characteristics of the study area that enhances the effectiveness of bicycle infrastructure evaluation.