Motorcycle ownership and use in Bogotá, Colombia: Unveiling novel factors through a hybrid modelling approach

The growing popularity of the motorcycle in many cities in Asia and Latin America has brought new challenges for transportation and urban planning since its massive use is associated with substantial negative externalities. This study aims to unveil the key factors that have motivated increased ownership of motorcycles and to explore the reasons for their recurrent use for commuting trips, considering personal and household characteristics, space-related variables, and latent constructs accounting for perceptions and attitudes. We applied an online survey to motorcycle and non-motorcycle users in Bogotá, Colombia, to acquire behavioural, attitudinal, and perceptual data. Using these data, we estimated integrated choice and latent variable (ICLV) models to identify critical elements influencing the individuals’ utility for both motorcycle use and ownership. Our results reveal that both decisions depend not only on standard demographic and spatial factors as has been predominantly argued, but also on individuals’ attitudes and perceptions which play an important role. For example, having a negative perception of public transport, having a pro-motorcycle personality, or having acquired a motorcycle habit are critical determinants for deciding to own and use motorcycles frequently. Our results enrich the literature about motorcycle ownership and use, particularly in developing countries, and should help the design of public policies to achieve more sustainable cities in the Global South.