A Smartphone Intervention For Cycle Commuting

For those who new to cycling to and from work, how do you inspire yourself to keep up with it? Previous research has identified that having a partner is crucial to create and maintain a new habit. However, the rapidly changing work dynamics pose a challenge on this basis. Frequently failing to show up at the appointed or expected time can cause the motivation breakdown. In this paper, we introduce BikeTogether, a smartphone app that encourages and supports its users to cycle home with each other over the Internet. The app employs the metaphor of a bicycle flashlight to represent closeness, leading, and following between two sides. The cycling performance is also recorded so the users can track how they are doing over time. 10 participants were instructed and randomly paired to take a two-phases test ride on different routes. Results indicated that the app can help create the sense of being with each other while cycling and promote not only accompanied but competing ride. In addition, the outcome of the desirability towards the app implies a higher chance it will lead to a behavior change. This provides a new way that we can commit to remain encouraged.