ISCycle
Inclusive Sustainable Cycling
ISCycle is a research project at University of Limerick examining the impact of electric bikes (ebikes) on transport behavior, physical activity, and the environment. The name ISCycle means Inclusive Sustainable Cycling. The project aims to promote inclusive ebike uptake and sustainable use.
At ISCycle we are conducting research to understand if ebike loans lead individuals to substitute car trips for cycling trips, i.e. modal shift. At the same time, we are studying the potential environmental impacts of increased ebike use in Ireland.
Towards more inclusive cycling
Ebikes may lower some of the barriers to active mobility by supporting users to travel further, in more challenging conditions like wind or hills, and while carrying cargo or passengers. Participants in ISCycle chose from a selection of different bike types to suit their individual transport needs, including:
Longtail cargo ebike
Box-ebike
Box-etrike
Folding ebike
Commuter ebike
Utility ebike
Participants in ISCycle can also choose from a range of biking accessories, including rain gear, pannier bags, baskets and gloves. Cycle training is also offered.
Towards more sustainable cycling
The environmental impacts of increased ownership of ebikes in Ireland need to be anticipated. At ISCycle, we are studying these impacts and processes to determine implications for:
Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) management
A circular economy for ebikes through repair, refurbishment and reuse
Carbon emissions and other environmental parameters
Different ebike designs can meet different transport needs. Participants in ISCycle can select the bike type and accessories that will best match with their needs. That could involve transporting children, carrying the bike onto public transport, or collecting groceries: