Whitehorse Active Transport Action Group Inc.

Micro-mobility is contentious because e-scooters can be threatening to pedestrians. It is claimed that using e-scooters is a replacement for short car trips and therefore environmentally sound. But these claims are generally made by scooter hire companies who stand to profit from e-scooter use. There is a trial in Melbourne. Is there any unbiased research on the usage and benefits and disadvantages?

Well – yes, there is research on the usage and benefits and disadvantages of e-scooters and micro-mobility in general. However, the findings can vary depending on the study and the context in which e-scooters are used. Some studies have shown that e-scooters can lead to reductions in car trips and emissions, while others have found that e-scooters may increase pedestrian-vehicle conflicts. The results of the trial in Melbourne may provide further insights into the effects of e-scooters in a specific context.

Here are some of the general findings from research on the usage and benefits and disadvantages of e-scooters and micro-mobility:

• Environmental benefits: Some studies have shown that e-scooters can lead to reductions in car trips and emissions, particularly for short trips.
• Accessibility: E-scooters can improve mobility options for people who cannot or prefer not to drive, including those who are elderly, disabled, or low-income.
• Safety: There is concern that e-scooters can pose a threat to pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users, particularly in densely populated areas. Some studies have reported high rates of e-scooter-related injuries and accidents.
• Congestion: E-scooters can contribute to increased sidewalk and street congestion in densely populated areas, leading to conflicts between pedestrians and riders.
• Equity: Access to e-scooters can be limited for certain populations, such as those who do not have access to a credit card or smartphone.

A few academic studies that have looked at various aspects of e-scooters and micro-mobility are:

• “Electric Scooters and Bikesharing: Impacts on Public Transit Use and Physical Activity.” (2020) by M. Shaheen, C. Cohen, R. Jones, and L. Banister. Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice, volume 137.
• “Electric Scooters and Public Space: Understanding User Experiences and Perceptions.” (2020) by K. Blanke, M. Rosales, and A. Manaugh. Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice, volume 142.
• “The Environmental and Health Impacts of E-Scooters: A Review.” (2020) by E. Moretti, S. Mandaville, K. Froehlich, and M. Jerrett. Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment, volume 83.
• “The Impacts of Electric Scooters on Physical Activity, Health, and Safety.” (2021) by B.A. Baumeister and K. Brien. Journal of Transport & Health, volume 19.

These studies provide a good starting point for exploring some of the benefits and drawbacks of e-scooters and micro-mobility, but there is much more research being done in this field, and the findings are constantly evolving.

These findings suggest that the impact of e-scooters and micro-mobility is complex and context-dependent. So it’s important to consider the potential benefits and drawbacks in a comprehensive and nuanced manner, and consider various aspects such as safety, accessibility, and actual rather than perceived sustainability.

A personal perspective from the editor.

Being a recent immigrant into the area that may well be termed “scooter central” – Southbank along the Yarra River Melbourne – and looking out my apartment window, and in the surrounding streets and shared paths along the river, I’ll give a non-academic perspective. It’s not based on surveys or rigorous double-blind testing, but simply personal observation.

It’s my view that e-scooters are principally for people to have fun on. They ‘double-dink, helmets seem optional, the rule about not riding on footpaths it totally ignored, and they simply get discarded like McDonald’s wrappers when the fun had been had. Their mothers never insisted on them putting things away in an orderly way when you finish using something!

Sure, some do get used for commuting. A recent Bicycle Network count done on one city entrance from7am – 10am on a Tuesday, recorded 319 cyclists and 26 scooters. Probably almost all were commuters, and all were acting in an orderly way. But visual observation along the river path – particularly or a weekend, and it’s hundreds of ‘fun trips’ and not an office-backpack or briefcase in sight.

In summary

Let’s hope those evaluating the Melbourne trial are not too swayed by the commercial operators data, and get on the streets themselves and observe the actual behaviours as well as all the academic research.

There’s no need to register or book beforehand. Just come along,and register when you arrive*

Local enthusiasts who already ride non-standard two and three wheel bikes will be there to chat with you and let you see what’s available. And we’ll have bikes and trikes for you to test ride too.

PLUS look for the Special Offers.

E-bike specialists Sparque will have information about a range of packages to buy, salary package, lease or even rent for a month to really try out your new bike. AND a special try-before-you buy offer.

The local branch of 99 Bikes – one of Australia’s largest bike stores – are terrific advocates for e-bikes. They will be there with some bikes to try and to give advice.

Local specialist e-bike suppliers REV-Bikes will be there too with some bikes you may not have seen before

For instance you might not be familiar with this type of recumbent bike, let alone had a chance to see one in action. It’s like riding in an armchair!

You’ll be surprised at what’s available to help older folk who want to keep active but are a little unsure how to do this safely and in a way which meets their changing physical needs.

And there is academic research to supports the use of e-trikes and e-bikes as a way to help older people stay active. For example:

1. A study published in the Journal of Transport & Health found that e-bikes can increase physical activity levels in older adults, particularly among those who are less physically active.
2. A study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that e-bikes can have positive effects on older adults’ physical fitness and well-being, and can promote healthy aging.
3. A systematic review published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research concluded that e-bikes have the potential to increase physical activity and reduce the risk of chronic disease in older adults.
4. A study published in the journal “Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment” found that e-bikes can increase the level of physical activity among older adults and improve their mobility and independence.
5. A study published in the “Journal of Transport and Health” found that e-bikes are a viable alternative mode of transportation for older adults, and can help to increase physical activity levels and improve quality of life.
6. Another study published in the “International Journal of Sustainable Transportation” found that e-bikes can provide older adults with a more accessible and convenient form of transportation, which can lead to increased physical activity levels and improved health outcomes.
7. Science Direct reported on “Physical activity of electric bicycle users compared to conventional bicycle users and non-cyclists” The study showed that •E-bikers take longer trips by e-bike and bicycle, compared to cyclists, •Physical activity gains from active travel are similar in e-bikers and cyclists.•Substituting all car trips with e-bike use leads to a g big gain in metabolic activity.• Transport modes substituted by the e-bike are still used frequently afterwards
8. These studies suggest that e-bikes and e-trikes can be beneficial for older adults in Australia and provide evidence that supports their use as a way to help older people stay active. However, it is important to consider the specific needs and abilities of each individual before deciding to use an e-bike or e-trike, and to ensure that proper training and support are received for safe use.
   As a starting point. come to the EXPO!!

It’s important to note that while these studies suggest that e-trikes and e-bikes can be beneficial for older adults, more research is needed to fully understand their impact on this population and to identify best practices for safe and effective use.

This event is being run by WATAG in conjunction with Whitehorse City Council with support from bike suppliers, and local enthusiasts.

Note the date in your diary now and we’ll see you there!

(*We’ll need you to register your details so you can try out some of the bikes and trikes for yourself.)

Have you or friends said “I used to ride but my balance isn’t what it used to be”? Or “I haven’t the strength to ride up hills any more” or maybe “I like riding with the group but I can’t keep up and it’s embarrassing.”  

Here’s a way to keep upright.

You’ve certainly heard about e-bikes, but what about e-trikes?

Many factors lead to a person giving up on  the life-long enjoyment of riding for errands or social activities.  Older people or those with limited mobility often progress to an electric mobility scooter without being aware of alternatives. A lifelong cyclist may well appreciate riding an e-trike so they can continue to be active while having all the advantages of a mobility scooter. Trikes were once shunned because of stability problems when cornering. But a new addition on the market of a luxury tilting e-trike from Kwolity, changes all that. You might say “it puts a new tilt on things”!

In March 2023 WATAG is planning a community event – an e-bike and e-trike Expo – to demonstrate practical alternatives for maintaining active transport for people not comfortable on two wheels or who have reduced power to cycle or reduced ability to walk.

People with reduced mobility or those who are less confident or comfortable on only two wheels may find a solution among the vehicles we aim to display.  We plan to display eBikes, e-Trikes, Tilting e-Trike and Recumbent Trikes and to enable you to test ride these.

Watch for details in the next edition of Eastsider News in February, and look for updates  at WATAG website https://watag.org . While you are there, register as a ‘subscriber’ so you get notification when WATAG’s bi-monthly newsletter is published.

Click here for Active Whitehorse News December 2022

• Christmas get-together
• Ride and Stride
• Some welcome news
• Is your library like this?
• E-cargo bike trials
• Talking of triangles…
• …and trikes
• A great place to be
• Too much traffic?
• Box Hill Mall – your ideas wanted
• An opportunity to help
• Visionary friends
• Please help me…
• Another update
• Walk fast age slower
• Eastsider News – not to be missed
• Interested in being Active too? Here’s how
• Some questions for YOU
• Your view