A survey of more than 1,000 people in the Netherlands, as part of a larger group of more than 15,500 people in 12 European countries, has found that the rising cost of living and subsidies for buying e-bikes are the main factors for people to consider using e-bikes. The survey was commissioned by Shimano, a global manufacturer of bicycle parts and accessories.
People in the survey were asked about reasons for currently buying or renting an e-bike. The main motives were found to be the cost of living (53%) and support for purchase costs through an e-bike subsidy (50%).
Only 17% consider the improvement of cycling infrastructure as an important factor. However, 37% of people do indicate that the infrastructure in their neighbourhood has improved in the past 12 months. There are differences between provinces in this regard. In Limburg (46%), people are very appreciative of the improvements, but in Flevoland (72%) and Zeeland (61%), residents are not.
This survey was conducted in view of the State of the Nation of this year, an annual report from Shimano that provides insight into how people across Europe view e-bikes. The report is HERE find.
Across Europe, economic reasons such as the cost of living (47%) and subsidies for e-bikes (41%) are mentioned significantly more often than COVID-19 as an incentive factor to increase e-bike use (18%). This is a big difference from last year.
Then, 39% of respondents in Europe said they would consider buying or using an e-bike, thus avoiding public transport for fear of Covid-19. Concern for the environment was seen as a major motive by 33% of Europeans in the countries surveyed.
To gain insight into the thoughts people have when using e-bikes, Shimano asked the question: who do you think e-bikes are for? This showed that e-bikes in the Netherlands are very strongly associated with seniors (at 65% the case). This is much higher than the average of 38% across Europe. E-bikes are also associated with people concerned about the environment (42%) and with commuting (37% ).
Netherlands vs Europe
People in the Netherlands are much more likely than other Europeans to plan to have their bikes serviced: almost half (48%) say they plan to do so in the next 6 months. This is almost double the average of 25% across Europe. Over half of those in the Netherlands who plan to maintain their bikes (54%) say they do so because maintenance is important for the life of the bike. The Netherlands leads the way when it comes to the number of bicycle owners: only 13% say they do not own a bicycle, compared to an average of 41% across Europe.
Fascinating developments
Jonathan Davis, PR & Communications Manager at Shimano Europe: "We are delighted to present our fourth State of the Nation report. Based on a survey of more than 15,500 people across Europe, our aim is to explore the motives of e-bike users and gain a better understanding of how people view e-bikes and cycling in general.
"The findings are fascinating and allow us to identify important trends in the market. Public opinion when it comes to e-biking and attitudes towards people riding e-bikes are changing in a positive direction.
"We hope this report is a useful tool for everyone in the cycling industry and beyond, and that it continues to play a role in further developing the e-bike industry."
Statistics
- 53% says rising cost of living is reason to buy/rent an e-bike
- 50% says a subsidy would encourage buying/renting an e-bike
- 65% thinks e-bikes are for seniors
- 43% says e-bikes are for environmentally conscious people
- 48% says they are likely to have their bike serviced in the next 6 months
- 54% of people who maintain their bikes say regular maintenance is important to keep them in good condition
Accountability
- Data and report: all figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. The total sample size consisted of 15,792 adults in the UK, Spain, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, Austria, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Poland and Switzerland. The field survey was conducted between 17 and 25 August 2022. The survey was conducted online. The figures were given equal weights for each country to arrive at an 'average' value.
Ganna & Shimano
On behalf of Shimano, Ganna supported the distribution of this press release in the Dutch media. Ganna is a creative marketing and communications agency in cycling.
About Shimano Europe: Founded in 1921, Shimano helps its customers get closer to nature, supports people to realise their dreams and creates new lifestyles. This includes a commitment to designing excellent cycling products and clothing. With more than 100 years of experience, Shimano is proud to have developed products that have helped countless athletes achieve success and enabled people to get out there. For more information, visit: lifestylebike.shimano.com
