Comparative Modelling of Cycling Route Choice by Bikes and E-Bikes: The Case Study of Tartu, Estonia

Abstract Cycling plays a crucial role in sustainable urban mobility, prompting cities worldwide to increase its modal share. A fundamental step in promoting cycling is understanding cyclists' route choice behaviour, which informs the design of a more efficient and attractive cycling infrastructure. In this study, we use high-resolution, long-term GPS data to model the route choice behaviour of cyclists. Furthermore, we focus on the differences in route choice between e-bike and conventional bicycle users. To our knowledge, it is the first to analyse cycling route choice in Estonia and the broader Central and Eastern European (CEE) region, utilising one of the most comprehensive datasets available on urban cycling. Our findings provide valuable insights to support evidence-based urban planning and cycling policy development, contributing to more cyclist-friendly cities.