Does One’s Origin Affect One’s Bicycle Use? A study on the similarities and differences in bicycle use between immigrant and native inhabitants of two Dutch neighbourhoods

Abstract

Dutch cycling culture differs from that of the rest of the world. It is supported by policy measures but also by society and therefore everybody seems to cycle and even the prime-minister and queen do it. It is therefore safe to say that cycling is truly part of the Dutch habitus. According to previous research this has three main reasons: almost the entire country is flat, the Dutch cities in the past did not create a pro-car infrastructure and also the protestant ethic of the Dutch is said to be part of the reason why the bicycle suits the Dutch in their transport needs. It is also safe to say that in many other countries around the world cycling is perceived less normal. It seems a combination of hilly terrain, low urban density and cultures who regard cycling as inappropriate for women or only suitable for the poor. This seems to be the case in the Orient but also the Western world.