Everyday usability of speed pedelecs: qualitative findings on modal shift, interactions and regulatory issues in Germany

Speed pedelecs—electric bicycles with pedal support up to 45 km/h—have been identified as promising alternatives to car travel, particularly for commuting. However, their uptake in Germany is limited, potentially hindered by legal restrictions to their use of existing cycling infrastructure. This paper reports on qualitative interviews with 11 participants who tested speed pedelecs for several weeks in Tübingen, the first German city to create a designated speed pedelec network by opening up cycle infrastructure and agricultural roads. The aim of the study was to explore the experiences of the speed pedelec testers and their perceptions of the speed pedelec as a potential replacement for more carbon-intense modes of transport. Thematic analysis produced four key themes: (1) Suitability for everyday life, including speed, independence, and commuting utility; (2) Cycling for body and mind, with benefits to physical and mental health; (3) Mixed interactions, reflecting tensions and co-existence with drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, and (4) Questioning the status quo, with critiques of regulatory limitations and infrastructure. While participants successfully used the speed pedelecs to replace car or public transport trips and largely enjoyed using the bikes, barriers such as limited infrastructure, interactions with drivers, limited luggage transport and high costs hindered long-term adoption intentions. From the perspective of the speed pedelec testers, interactions with cyclists and pedestrians were generally positive, challenging the blanket ban of speed pedelecs on cycling paths and instead highlighting the need for attractive and safe infrastructure design for all types of active transport.