Here is a graph aiming to present the utility vs the cost of riding a bike in the city. The goal here is to give a quick and organized overview of the case in a very schematic manner. To some extent, this graph could apply to micromobility.
Check out this mind map made by our co-founder Charlotte Duruisseau! Your comments are welcome!
Biking_in_cityClearly, biking offers many benefits compared to driving in addition of avoiding many unwanted consequences created by car use. It is a very versatile and resource efficient way to move people and goods around in the city. Thus, it is hard to comprehend why so many resources are currently dedicated to cars. Furthermore, the fact that the use of cars is hardly compatible with others modes on the streets does not allow people to make a real choice of how they want to move around. Indeed, the hostile and agressive climate installed by cars is very dissuasive. Thus even the most motivated and highest bike believer will not take the step for fair of its life…
Although some cities have started to improve conditions on the roads to allow other modes, there are still far too many dangerous places in the cities and hidden incentives for car use such as publicly-funded gas and infrastructure. While some neighborhoods had enough improvements for people to take the step with another mode, others, usually neighborhoods where poorer people live, are too agressive for any change.
We need to make the city bike-friendly (which is like saying “people-friendly”) and we need to do it equitably.
At ReMotion, we support cycling in San Francisco by providing a top level of convenience for bicycle maintenance. This essential mobility option deserves top priority, because not only does it benefit the rider but the whole city and beyond. By sending professional mechanics on bicycles to your location, we can offer a mobile service without the societal cost of vans/cars.
– Catch you riding!