Bicycle commuting as an alternative to cars and public transit can reduce commute costs and stress while increasing commute satisfaction and self-efficacy. The references listed below suggest that cyclists are more satisfied with their commute than those using other modes of transportation and generally have higher levels of transportation satisfaction. Switching to a bike for one’s commute offers a noticeable boost to most people’s psychological well-being while providing other mental and physical health benefits.  

Despite the benefits of bicycle commuting, a mix of practical challenges, traffic impediments, real and perceived risks, and social norms create strong mental and behavioral barriers to the widespread adoption of bicycling in Los Angeles. Additionally, in our study areas, which include Chinatown, Solano Canyon, and Lincoln Heights, the lack of safe bicycle infrastructure is a major impediment to bicycle commuting.  

This study builds on evidence that coordinated group biking can improve rider safety and satisfaction. We aim to increase the number of people willing to bike to work, using a community-driven group bicycling system. We anticipate that biking will enhance transportation satisfaction, lower transportation costs, and increase flexibility for community members to better reach employment and other opportunities. Our research questions include: 

    – Does participation in the CiBiC system increase transportation satisfaction, and in what ways?

    – Do participants have more flexibility to seek employment or living opportunities than before? 

    – Do participants feel that the CiBiC project helps their journey to work become more efficient, comfortable, and safe compared to their previous commute? 

     – Are perceptions about the CiBiC project influenced by participants’ sociodemographic characteristics? 

     – How effective are community bike flows in encouraging hybrid commutes (e.g. bicycle-transit) and extending first-last mile connections? Do they expand the available public transportation options for participants?