Case Study of Factor Components of Bicycle Use Promotion by Covariance Structure Analysis

Abstract

We conducted factor analysis to determine effective policies for promoting bicycle use in an urban area based on a survey of actual conditions of bicycle use. Factor analysis revealed three factors of 'hardware management', 'software management', and 'convenience of bicycles' which significantly affect bicycle use promotion. Furthermore, covariance structure analysis suggests that it is most effective to enforce 'software management', such as thorough rule observation by bicycle users and practices and cultivation of environmental awareness, in order for residents to shift private vehicle use to that of bicycles.