Research on the psychological model of free-floating bike-sharing using behavior: A case study of Beijing

Abstract

As a clean, sustainable transport tool, bicycles have significant advantages in short-distance travel. Despite many efforts assumed in Beijing to improve the cycling environment, the popularity of cycling remains relatively low. However, the advent of the free-floating bike-sharing (FFBS) system has engendered an unexpected cycling enthusiasm in Beijing. Therefore, it is of great importance to delve into why travelers prefer FFBS as a transportation form from a psychological perspective. In this paper, 352 valid questionnaires were collected from an online survey, and an extended theory of planned behavior (TPB) was adopted to examine the psychological determinants of intention and actual behavior to use FFBS. The results showed that men and car-owners prefer vehicles and show a lower willingness to use FFBS. In contrast, residents under the age of 60, residents with FFBS riding experience, and residents skilled in cycling are inclined to use FFBS; the economic convenience of FFBS is the most important attractant for FFBS, while bad weather is the biggest hindrance factor for residents to use FFBS; however, imperfection in infrastructure has no significant impact on reducing residents' willingness to use FFBS. These results have important implications for planners to better understand the FFBS use behavior, and several suggestions are proposed to support the policymaking about FFBS.