Cycling: Utilitarian and symbolic dimensions

Abstract

This study explores the various factors, both of utilitarian and symbolic nature, associated with the use of bicycles in the city of Volos, a medium-sized Greek city. Deviating from relevant studies carried out to date in Greece, it is based on a differentiated view of the parameters linked to the degree of its use, where emotions, habits and social norms (symbolic) are considered as important as the elements of the natural and built environment and the socio-economic reality (utilitarian). A sample of 363 residents participated in the survey by completing a questionnaire, which investigated the importance of each of the aforementioned elements. The key questions posed concern the investigation of a) the correlation of the above factors with the intensity of cycling in the city of Volos, b) the attitude of citizens towards cycling and cyclists and c) the role of cycling in the user's everyday life. The results revealed that symbolic factors are associated with choices, habits and future changes in users' behavior and led to the conclusion that both factor groups play a significant role in understanding and redefining the behavior of individuals towards the increase of cycling in cities. © 2017 The Authors.