Determinants of cycling behavior in vulnerable groups: Early findings from a natural experiment examining the effects of a multi-strategic bicycle intervention in Düsseldorf
Background: As part of its “Mobility plan D,” the City of Düsseldorf is implementing multiple measures to promote a modal shift from car use towards active mobility. In a natural experiment, the UNITY project investigates the effects of this multi‑strategic intervention (i.e., continuous expansion of traffic-calmed cycling routes, mobility sharing stations, media activities) on cycling behavior and health-related outcomes. While the benefits of improved bicycle infrastructure have been demonstrated, evidence on how these effects vary across different socio-spatial contexts remains limited. Aim: This presentation focuses on early insights from the project and aims to identify determinants of cycling behavior among citizens residing in a socio-economically disadvantaged city district. Methods: Determinants of cycling behavior are explored through structured interviews and focus groups (sample size n=40) conducted in Oberbilk, a socio‑economically disadvantaged city district in Düsseldorf. Data collection takes place between March and May 2026. Eligible participants are adults (18+ years) with the ability to cycle. Participants are recruited in cooperation with the local Office for Social Affairs and Youth to facilitate access to individuals with different socio-economic and migration backgrounds. All interviews are audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically based on the five dimensions of the socio-ecological model to identify perceived barriers and facilitators of cycling in the local context. Results: Data collection began in March 2026 and is ongoing. Preliminary findings will be presented at the conference. Discussion: This study is one of the first to provide insights into determinants of cycling in a socio-economically disadvantaged city district in Düsseldorf. It will generate new evidence on the cycling behavior of vulnerable groups which can inform socially equitable cycling policies and infrastructure planning in the future
Lisa Stähler is a research associate in the Public Health Group at the Institute of Medical Sociology. She holds a B.Sc. in Psychology with a Research Minor from Maastricht University and a M.Sc. in Psychology from Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf.
She pursues her PhD within the project UNITY where she works as the project coordinator and conducts research on the effects of a multi-strategic bicycle infrastructure intervention on bicycling mobility, health and sustainability.
Her research interests are in the field of public health interventions with a focus on physical activity and mental health promotion, e-health and prevention research.