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The first European Urban Mobility Barometer from Decathlon provides new insights into the mobility behaviour of young adults in cities. For the study, over 4,000 people aged between 18 and 28 were surveyed in six European countries: Germany, France, Great Britain, Italy, Poland and Spain. The results show that in Germany in particular, cycling is already firmly anchored in the everyday lives of the younger generation. At the same time, however, obstacles to even more intensive use also became clear. At 66 per cent, two thirds of 18 to 28-year-old Germans use a bicycle at least once a week. This is the highest figure of all the countries surveyed. Germany also leads the field in terms of daily use with 22 per cent. However, 22 per cent also state that they rarely or never use a bicycle. Across Europe, young people are increasingly integrating cycling into their everyday lives: 75 per cent of respondents use their bikes regularly, 58 per cent cycle at least once a week.
Cycling as a lifestyle, but not for the journey to work
The main motives for cycling are clear: in first place is the desire to stay fit and healthy (79 per cent). For 68 per cent, freedom and fun are important reasons, as is the opportunity to save time and avoid traffic jams. 67 per cent appreciate the financial advantages compared to other means of transport. In Germany, the health aspect is the most important motivation: 39 per cent of those who only cycle occasionally cite health as the main reason. This is the motivation for a total of 80 per cent of Germans. The goal of reducing their own ecological footprint is mentioned least frequently. Despite the high usage rates, the bicycle is mainly used for leisure and sporting activities. In Germany, 55 per cent use the bicycle for leisure activities and 52 per cent for sport and training - the latter figure is the highest in a country comparison.
Cultural differences and safety concerns
The study shows clear cultural differences in bicycle use. While in Germany and France the focus is on sporting training, in Italy and Poland it is more on relaxed leisure activities. Despite these differences, 50 per cent of respondents describe their city as bicycle-friendly, especially in urban areas. 87 per cent generally feel safe when cycling. In Germany, the feeling of safety is exactly average at 87 per cent and is also high. Around 90 per cent consider their city to be bicycle-friendly for everyday use. Nevertheless, 61 per cent across Europe state that they do not feel completely safe. In Germany, 61 percent of those who feel unsafe cite risky behaviour by car drivers and other road users as the main reason. 52 per cent cite heavy traffic as the second most important unsafe factor.
Wishes for better cycling infrastructure
Young cyclists in Europe have a clear idea of what would motivate them to get on their bikes more often. First and foremost are more protected and separated cycle paths, which 54 per cent of respondents would like to see. 43 per cent want secure parking facilities for bicycles and 36 per cent want better signage for cycle paths. These demands are consistent across all countries and regardless of city size. They show a clear consensus on what is needed to normalise cycling in everyday life and make it more attractive.
Potential for everyday mobility
The results of the Decathlon Urban Mobility Barometer show that Generation Z in Germany and Europe already has a strong affinity for cycling. In Germany in particular, the bicycle is an integral part of life for many young people. However, up to now it has mainly been used for leisure and sporting activities. In order to fully utilise the potential of the bicycle as an everyday means of transport, improvements to the infrastructure are necessary. Safe and segregated cycle paths and better parking facilities could motivate many young people to use their bikes more often to get to work or university. The study makes it clear that the younger generation is willing to switch to cycling. It is now up to cities and municipalities to create the necessary framework conditions to utilise this potential for more sustainable urban mobility.
Leon Weidner
Working student
