The Influence of Early Cycling Initiation on Active Mobility, Cycling Behaviours and Safety Outcomes

Although cycling is widely renowned for its benefits to transport sustainability and individual health, the impact of cycling initiation age on cycling behaviours and safety outcomes remains underexplored in the scientific literature. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between the age of initiation and self-reported cycling behaviours, safety skills and willingness to increase cycling participation. For this purpose, we used the data provided by 1,741 cyclists from five Balkan countries. Overall, no significant differences in onset ages were found between male and female riders. Regarding self-reported cycling behaviour, individuals who started cycling at an earlier age were less prone to unintentional risky behaviours and consistently reported better knowledge of traffic rules. Notably, earlier starters are those who currently engage in longer and more sustained cycling trips. However, they were also less likely to wear a helmet and more likely to engage with connected devices while cycling. This suggests that while the relationship between cycling onset ages and subsequent riding outcomes is relatively clear, it is neither tautological nor linear, highlighting the ongoing need for safety literacy initiatives. On a practical level, these findings underline the need for strategies that promote early cycling engagement while fostering sustained growth in active mobility and safer cycling practices.