Exploring the transition to electric motorcycles and its role in multimodal travel in the Jakarta metropolitan area

Motorcycles are a dominant mode of commuting in regions such as the Jakarta Metropolitan Area, but their widespread use contributes to traffic congestion, safety concerns, and environmental degradation. This study investigates the preferences of conventional motorcycle (CM) users regarding a transition to electric motorcycles (EMs) and their integration with public transportation (PT) systems. Using a Mixed Logit model, this study analyzes data from 580 commuters in the Bodetabek region who travel to Jakarta and express a willingness to adopt EMs. Three models are developed: Model 1 includes travel attributes (e.g., time, cost, access, parking); Model 2 incorporates sociodemographic and trip characteristics; Model 3 adds latent motivational factors, including flexibility, efficiency, and resilience. Elasticity analysis further evaluates the sensitivity of commuter preferences to changes in key attributes. Results indicate that all travel attributes negatively impact mode utility; higher time or cost reduces the likelihood of mode choice. The inclusion of demographic and latent variables improves model fit and reveals significant behavioral heterogeneity. Older and more educated commuters show greater openness to using EMs and integrated modes. Commuters with longer travel durations favor integration, while high–frequency CM users tend to resist switching. Environmental awareness increases the likelihood of choosing EM as a first–mile connection to PT. Psychological motivations also influence decisions: flexibility promotes EM use; perceived efficiency discourages integration; resilience reinforces CM loyalty. Elasticity analysis confirms that even slight increases in travel cost or time can shift users back to CM. These findings highlight the need for targeted policies such as park-and-ride facilities, EM charging stations, and integrated fare systems. Incentives and outreach tailored by age, education, and environmental concern are essential to promote sustainable mode shifts. Ultimately, successful EM adoption and PT integration require not only infrastructure and financial incentives but also behavioral strategies that address commuter motivations and travel habits.