Smart Bicycles in an Urban Area: Evaluation of a Pilot Scheme in London

Automated or smart bicycle systems are seen as a way to enhance mobility and provide a convenient access and egress mode for public transport. This paper summarizes an evaluation of a pilot system introduced in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham in August 2004. Underground and commuter rail stations, as well as a heavily-used bus network, serve this densely populated area. A survey of users was conducted and data was collected from actual use of the system. Analysis of this data gave insights into the capabilities of these types of systems to enhance existing public transport services. In particular, it was found that the potential of the system lies primarily with leisure and recreational markets and with providing links to public transport stations. The pilot system included “sponsored” nonpaying users who tended to use the system more for commuting and utilitarian trips.