Pedal without fatigue: Analysis of urban cycling infrastructure based on pedalling energy

Abstract

An effective strategy for the promotion of cycling as urban transport is the design and implementation of cycling infrastructure, such as cycle paths, bicycle parking and bicycle-sharing schemes. The spatial location of these infrastructures is a key aspect to guarantee their success. In this contribution, we propose the extension of a method of analysis that takes into account the speed, slope, intersections and rolling surface to estimate the energy required for pedalling. In addition, we present a GIS-based assignment tool that enables modelling the service level of bicycle loan stations, optimising their location and determining the optimal routes to design a cycle path network using network analysis and localization algorithms with open data. The results demonstrate the viability of the method to support decision-making on urban cycling infrastructure.