Competitive or complementary role of bike-sharing to public transport: Budapest case study

Földes, Dávid (2026) Competitive or complementary role of bike-sharing to public transport: Budapest case study. CITIES: THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF URBAN POLICY AND PLANNING, 171. No. 106738. ISSN 0264-2751

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Abstract

Bike-sharing offers a suitable option for short rides in major cities worldwide, yet its role in urban transport remains unclear. This study examines how bike-sharing (BS) interacts with public transport (PT), either as a complementary feeder or a competing substitute service. Using a unique origin–destination dataset of over 2.2 million rentals in Budapest, Hungary (September 2023–August 2024), descriptive statistics and a zero-inflated negative binomial model were applied to explain both zero and positive rental counts based on PT availability and network and cycling infrastructure characteristics. Results show that bicycle distance is the strongest predictor of both zero rentals and ride intensity, while bicycle-friendly infrastructure and relative PT travel time significantly increase BS demand. Findings indicate a dual role of BS, though competition with PT dominates. BS often substitutes for short PT trips (1–2 stops), especially for the metro, or is used to avoid transfers. Competition is stronger when BS is faster than PT, notably in the morning peak, or when bicycle-friendly roads run parallel to PT lines. Complementarity emerges mainly in winter, when cycling conditions are worse, and in areas where PT availability is weak, but the metro is available nearby. Tram and especially metro connectivity positively affect BS use, while links with bus service are weak. These results can guide policymakers in expanding BS infrastructure to reinforce its complementary role.

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