[Barriers to cycling for transportation: findings from the population-based survey "Health in Germany"].

Background

Traveling by bicycle rather than by car has a wide range of positive effects on individual and public health. As the proportion of journeys made by bicycle in Germany is currently low, this article examines the barriers to everyday cycling and differences between socio-demographic groups.

Methods

As part of the 2025 annual survey of the Robert Koch Institute's population-based panel "Health in Germany," adults were asked about their everyday use of bicycles and the barriers to cycling. Differences between socio-demographic groups were examined using regression analyses. Data from 32,374 individuals were included in the analyses.

Results

The five most frequently cited barriers were poor weather conditions (51.1%), distances being too long (45.1%), not wanting to arrive at the destination sweaty (42.8%), transporting luggage or passengers (34.4%), and a lack of changing rooms and showers (31.9%). Significant differences were observed between socio-demographic groups: safety-related barriers were more relevant for women, whilst for older people and those with a lower level of formal education, their own health and fitness, as well as the lack of a (good) bicycle, were more significant. People living in rural areas were more likely to cite journeys that were too long or too hilly.

Discussion

The results show that barriers to cycling exist at both the environmental and individual levels, and therefore measures are required at multiple levels. In particular, the needs of population groups who have so far used bicycles less frequently should be addressed to reduce barriers and promote health equity.