What are the behavioral features of Japanese cycling? Identifying risk-related strengths and weaknesses in a global context
Sergio A. Useche et al.
What the paper says
Japan has a long-standing and widespread cycling culture, but empirical data on cyclists' risk-related behaviors are still relatively scarce. In particular, little is known about how Japanese cyclists perceive risk, comply with traffic rules, and experience cycling crashes compared with riders in other regions. Generating this type of comparative evidence may help to better situate the Japanese case within global cycling safety trends and to guide future preventive measures. This study aims to bridge this gap by comparing self-reported traffic violations, errors, and positive behaviors, risk perception, acceptance, and use of technology while riding, and crashes between Japanese cyclists and an international sample of cyclists across five continents. A total of 11,276 cyclists (691 Japanese, 10,585 from other countries across five continents) completed an online questionnaire on cycling safety-related variables (Cycling Behavior Questionnaire – CBQ, Risk Perception and Regulation Scale – RPRS, Technology Affinity Scale – TAEG, and self-reported cycling patterns and safety incidents). Group comparisons were conducted using MANCOVA adjusting for age and exposure, complemented by Welch's robust tests for individual between-group comparisons. The most common risky behaviors among Japanese cyclists were running red lights and riding against traffic flow, while signal misunderstanding and distracted bumps were least frequent. Compared to global trends, Japanese cyclists reported lower engagement in technological distractions, such as mobile phone or headphone use. However, they also showed a comparatively lower helmet use and risk perception. Despite reporting fewer crashes, their reduced adoption of protective measures and avoidance-related behaviors suggests potential safety concerns. These findings suggest that Japanese cycling behavior reflects both strengths and areas for improvement, likely shaped by cultural factors. While strong adherence to traffic norms and minimal engagement with technological distractions may contribute to fewer crashes, gaps in passive safety practices and positive behavioral habits emerge as key concerns. These insights can inform road safety policies and cycling promotion strategies in Japan and beyond. • This study analyzed the self-reported risk-related behaviors of Japanese cyclists in a global comparative context. • A total of 11,276 cyclists (691 Japanese, 10,585 from other countries) participated in the study. • Japanese cyclists reported lower engagement in technological distractions but also lower adoption of helmet use. • Despite fewer reported crashes, Japanese cyclists showed specific weaknesses compared to global trends. • Findings emphasize the need to promote protective safety measures while leveraging Japan's strong adherence to traffic norms.
Evidence weight
Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40
| F · citation impact | 0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20 |
| M · momentum | 0.50 × 0.15 = 0.07 |
| V · venue signal | 0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03 |
| R · text relevance † | 0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20 |
† Text relevance is estimated at 0.50 on the detail page — for your query’s actual relevance score, open this paper from a search result.