Does developing public transportation reduce motorcycle Usage? Evidence from Taiwan

This study employed the duration model incorporating the difference-in-difference (DID) approach to assess the influence of the development of public transportation on motorcycle usage in Taiwan between 2014 and 2018, as the metropolitan areas had experienced a period of rapid development with diverse public transportation modes after the restructuring of Taiwan's six municipalities. It also investigated whether this development led to an increased willingness among motorcycle commuters to use public transportation. The results reveal that the development of public transportation reduced motorcycle usage time, especially for motorcyclists who were reliant on the metro system and those using motorcycles for business activities. Conversely, the development of public transportation did not reduce motorcycle usage for commuting. Furthermore, the effects of public transportation development on motorcycle commuters' attitudes toward different transportation options differed among various commuter groups. Motorcycle commuters depending on the metro system and with a daily motorcycle usage time of less than 30 min exhibited a greater inclination to begin using public transportation after public transit networks were improved. By contrast, those with a daily motorcycle usage time exceeding 60 min exhibited a decreased willingness. The primary deterrents for motorcycle commuters transitioning to public transportation were limited convenience and mobility. Thus, improving the convenience and accessibility of public transportation should be prioritized. Such improvements might reduce reluctance to transition from using motorcycles to using public transportation. Further integrating diverse modes of transportation and promoting green mobility should also be key considerations in city planning strategies.