Representations of urban cycling in sustainability transitions research: a review

Abstract

Background: Increased cycling is generally recognized as a highly important project in decarbonizing urban transport. Despite well-researched and broadly accepted benefits of cycling, bicycle mobility plays only a marginal role in the modal share for most cities. Purpose: To make sense of this paradox, this review article investigates how cycling research engages with the governance of cycling. The review focuses on how cycling mobility is envisioned, approached and described within the change-oriented field of sustainability transitions research. Findings: Through a systematic reading of 25 peer reviewed scientific journal articles, we find that the articles mainly focus on technological objects of change (e-bikes and bikesharing systems); incumbent actors; and established planning and policy measures applied to new contexts. Most studies are evaluative, lacking the forward-looking and change oriented ambition transitions research set out to address. To contribute to increased cycling mobility in urban contexts, we conclude that future cycling research might benefit from adopting more diverse and clear notions of governance objects, actors and measures.