Abstract
PurposeUrban centers, with their dense populations and evolving mobility patterns, are pivotal in addressing global sustainability challenges. This study focuses on identifying the key elements driving the adoption of sustainable urban mobility innovations, with a renewed emphasis on cycling as a core component.Design/methodology/approachEmploying the Service Dominant Logic framework, this research examines how various conditions associated with the cycling ecosystem influence the adoption or negation of bicycles as a sustainable mode of urban transportation. The study conducts a comprehensive analysis across 60 cities to unravel these dynamics.FindingsThe investigation reveals that five distinct combinations of conditions facilitate the adoption of bicycles, while two specific combinations lead to its negation. Importantly, the study uncovers the presence of a “lock-in” mechanism, a critical factor in hindering bicycle adoption in urban settings.Originality/valueThis research contributes significantly to the field of sustainable urban mobility by integrating Service-Dominant Logic with empirical findings from a diverse set of global cities. It provides valuable insights into the complex interplay of factors influencing cycling adoption, offering a nuanced understanding of the barriers and drivers in this domain. The identification of a “lock-in” mechanism as a key impediment to cycling adoption adds a novel dimension to existing literature, presenting actionable pathways for policymakers and urban planners to foster more sustainable and bike-friendly urban environments.