Enhancing the Motorcycling Experience with Social Applications: A Study of User Needs

Abstract

For many riders, the motorcycle is much more than a transportation mode. Riding a motorcycle can be a pleasurable experience in itself, and the motorcycle is frequently a tool of socialization. An evidence for that can be found in the numerous motorcycling communities around the world. However, those communities may not be accessible to everyone, or they may not satisfy everyone. We believe that a social application for motorcyclists could reach more riders and has the potential of more easily fitting their needs. To explore this idea, we conducted focus groups with motorcyclists, exploring their current practices in digital tools as well as their needs and desires that could possibly be integrated in a social application. The results hinted on several aspects that need to be considered in the design of a social application for motorcyclists. Generally, motorcyclists are willing to receive and share information with others, and referred several needs in terms of communication and trip planning. However, they also showed concerns regarding a digital tool associated with riding, both for safety reasons and because it could disrupt the riding experience. We conclude that not only the needs but also the concerns must be considered in the design of this new digital tool.