Critical perspectives on bicycle sharing and equity

This special issue aims to support transport policy and practice by interrogating the equity and justice impacts of bicycle sharing schemes, exploring how this form of mobility includes or excludes different social groups, in different global contexts. Cities, worldwide, have adopted bicycle sharing schemes in recent decades, changing the face of urban transport. Accompanying this proliferation of new schemes is a burgeoning academic research and literature, where questions of operational efficiency, sustainability and environmental impact have been joined by mounting concern over the social inclusiveness of bicycle sharing. Bicycle sharing schemes offer the potential to provide alternatives for those marginalised by private car-based mobility or unaffordable transport costs; however, the patterning of their availability and use indicates a need for more nuanced understanding of how they can mitigate transport disadvantage. This special issue draws on examples from across the world, including Australasia, Asia and Europe. It introduces both new and well-established schemes, including dockless schemes, those in coastal environments, tourist areas, and residential settings. In presenting these papers together, the editors intend to highlight the scope of policy to make these shared transport services accessible to as many and as diverse populations as possible.