Cycling as everyday mobility in Hong Kong : can we break through the psychological barriers?

Abstract

Cycling as a mode of transport provides various benefits to many international cities and their transport systems, yet it makes up less that 1% of journeys in Hong Kong. This dissertation reviews factors related to utility cycling. Specifically, it investigates why some people choose to cycle while others prefer not to. A better understanding of these psychological factors can assist the development of policy and subsequent instruments to encourage cycling. Using attributes derived from the Theory of Planned Behaviour, a questionnaire was used to compare the views of cyclists and non-cyclists. The data reveals that people held significantly different beliefs regarding the perceived benefits, obstacles and social image of utility cycling. Addressing these issues may increase the utilization of cycling in the New Territories and the new towns. The implications to the cycling development in Hong Kong are also be discussed.