The micromobility mindset: Socio-technical drivers of bike share scheme adoption in the UK
This paper explores the public's perceptions and socio-technical factors influencing the adoption of bike share schemes in the UK. The data was collected via an e-survey with 643 valid responses. The consistent Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) bootstrapping algorithm was used to analyse the extended UTAUT2 model proposed by this study. Results show that most bike share scheme users preferred e-bikes over pedal bikes; most non-users have bike share schemes available locally; most frequent cyclists do not use bike share schemes; and the key motivator to use bike share schemes was improved safety and cycle infrastructure. For behavioural intention, the best predictor is perceived efficiency, followed by enjoyment, habit, and cycling infrastructure, while practical concerns, journey concerns, and social influence did not directly increase intention. For usage behaviour, key factors were cycling frequency, social influence, cycling infrastructure, and ease of use. The study provides a set of policy and practice recommendations in relation to the management and implementation of bike share schemes for the UK Government, local authorities and operators to increase bike share scheme adoption, including stronger legislation supporting integrated transport, better promotion of bike share schemes, improved stakeholder engagement and more inclusive infrastructure. • Extended UTAUT2 with PC, JC, cycling frequency and infrastructure constructs. • Perceived efficiency and enjoyment drive intention to use bike share. • Practical and journey concerns have indirect effects on adoption intention. • Cycling frequency and infrastructure predict actual bike share usage. • Price value and facilitating conditions not significant for adoption. • Policy actions should enhance safety, integration, and inclusivity.
Authors
- Nima Dadashzadeh (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5425-0572)
- Orla Bermingham
- Oliver Stone-Houghton
- Niamh Mason
- Montell Issah
Institutions
- University of Huddersfield (GB)
- Tyndall Centre (GB)
- University of Southampton (GB)
- University of Sheffield (GB)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Technological Forecasting and Social Change
- Published
- 2026-03-09
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techfore.2026.124620
- Primary Topic
- Urban Transport and Accessibility
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00