Space for cycling: A scoping review of recent evidence on the dynamic envelope for bicycle riding

• The dynamic envelope for cycling is investigated by technical and social factors. • Evidence reviewed suggests a minimum mechanical envelope of 1.5 M wide, 2.5 M tall and 1 s of headway. • In addition to the technical envelope, social space must be added. How much space does it take to ride a bicycle? The aim of this study was to answer this interdisciplinary question as depending on perspective, this could be a technical, social or political question. We conducted a scoping review of recent research (2014–2025) to determine the current state of knowledge from an interdisciplinary perspective (n = 42). Researchers primarily used naturalistic observation, controlled experiments, simulators, GPS data and mathematical modelling. Studies in our review identified many critical, independent variables including traffic flow, speed, path width, bicycle dynamics, path condition and bicycle static envelope. Synthesis of the research literature over the last 10 years suggests the minimum space needed to ride a bicycle from a technical perspective is a spatial envelope 1.5 m wide, 2.5 m high and a time headway of 1 s, which is inclusive of any bicycle length. While these parameters provide minimum mechanical benchmarks, the literature suggests that more space should be added from a social and behavioural perspective depending on the context and to enhance cycling modeshare, enjoyment, acceptability and rider safety.