Using a systematic search strategy, this paper reviews the literature about gender and cycling and critically assesses existing approaches to study the topic. Most studies use a binary conceptualization of gender, a cross‐sectional research design, and quantitative analysis to examine male–female differences in cycling behaviours, stated concerns, correlates, and barriers. The two hypotheses at the centre of most of this work are (1) that women cycle less than men due to greater safety concerns and (2) that women cycle less, or at least use bicycles differently than men, because of their more complex travel patterns that arise from greater household responsibilities. While the literature draws attention toward travel characteristics, it often relies on a simple binary conceptualization of gender. In doing so, it identifies differences in male–female cycling patterns, but it rarely sheds light on the gendered processes underlying these differences. In this paper, we argue that research into cycling as a form of mobility could be strengthened by engaging with feminist theories such as performativity, intersectionality, and embodiment to advance a more nuanced understanding of how gender and other axes of identity are intertwined with cycling.
Integrating bicycling with public transport can potentially benefit cyclists and transit operators. Successfully coordinating these transport modes, however, can be a difficult task when so little is known about the social and environmental barriers to this type of multimodal travel in the North American context. Using data derived from a survey of regional train service patrons in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton regions of Ontario, Canada, this study examines the challenges faced by those who cycle to/from the train, the barriers that keep passengers from commuting to/from the train by bicycle, and the sociodemographic characteristics of those cycling-and not cycling-to/from the train. Safety concerns, worries about bicycle security, and rules restricting when bicycles are permitted on trains were among the top challenges identified by individuals currently cycling to and/or from train stations. Among those who do not cycle to or from the train, appearance and comfort were the two primary concerns. Results also indicate that certain groups were more likely to cycle to/from the train than others. Notably, a large gender gap exists, approximately two-thirds (67%) of those cycling to their local train station were male. Results from this study may inform policy makers on how to successfully, and equitably, integrate cycling with regional rail transit.
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