Bike-sharing acceptance through the lens of the theory of routine mode choice decisions

Abstract

This paper aims to provide insight into factors affecting bike-sharing acceptance among Malaysians. Through a quantitative survey, data were collected from 120 commuters residing in the Klang Valley. The findings indicated that safety, comfort, and enjoyment are the decisive determinants of bike-sharing acceptance. Meanwhile, availability and costs have no significant impact. Based on the findings, bicycle distributors and competent authorities in Malaysia should focus on improving the comfort of service, bicycle infrastructure, and network that would support the growth of bicycle usage, especially in urban communities. The theory of routine mode choice decisions served as the underpinning theory to predict bike-sharing acceptance. Since limited studies have been carried out on the Kuala Lumpur public bicycle-sharing program, this study is among the first to contribute on the subject. The current study provides a platform for future empirical bike-sharing studies in Malaysia as a greenhouse-friendly and sustainable transportation mode.