Attitudinal Factors Associated with the Use of Bicycles and Electric Scooters
Round 1
Reviewer 1 Report
For this paper the theory of planned behavior and an adapted technology acceptance model were used to identify key attitudinal predictors linked to personal mobility vehicle (PMV) purchase/usage.
The study has a number of strengths, including delivering insights into PMV-related attitudes. These may aid policymakers and regional planners in developing and improving sustainable city mobility.
Additionally, the authors used a strong empirical model based on structural equation model for data analysis. This was a reliable and approriate method for examining causal relationships among variables in the sample of 457 respondents.
Despite its strengths, for future research a offer some suggestions.
Firstly, the researchers could gather additional information about relevant literature sources. This would allow for a better understanding of the study's theoretical framework which is not currently strong.
Secondly, providing more details about the sample's respondent characteristics, such as income, occupational roles and education levels, would help readers evaluate the sample's representativeness and provide new insights into covariate importance.
Thirdly, (and I appreciate this is a larger project) a longitudinal approach could be utilized to investigate attitude shifts towards PMVs over time, persistence in PMV use for those who do adopt, and the impact of dynamic external factors' impact, such as policy measures or technological advancements related to carbon mitigation.
Fourthly, a comparative analysis of various PMV types (e.g., bicycles vs. scooters) could reveal differences in attitudinal factors and usage patterns.
Finally, the study could delve into how attitudinal elements interact with other variables like social norms or perceived behavioral control in predicting actual usage behavior.
Overall, I enjoyed reading this interesting and well crafted paper.
Author Response
April 28, 2023
Dear
Sustainability – Editorial Team
Kind regards
In accordance with the suggestions of the reviewers in our article “Attitudinal Factors Associated with the Use of Bicycles and Electric Scooters”, the following changes were made, properly marked with red letters in the article:
Reviewer |
Comment |
Response |
R1 |
Firstly, the researchers could gather additional information about relevant literature sources. This would allow for a better understanding of the study's theoretical framework which is not currently strong. |
Additional sources are included in the Reference Framework section that strengthen the theoretical reference used in this study (TAM and TPB). |
R1 |
Secondly, providing more details about the sample's respondent characteristics, such as income, occupational roles and education levels, would help readers evaluate the sample's representativeness and provide new insights into covariate importance. |
All available sample information is included. |
R1 |
Thirdly, (and I appreciate this is a larger project) a longitudinal approach could be utilized to investigate attitude shifts towards PMVs over time, persistence in PMV use for those who do adopt, and the impact of dynamic external factors' impact, such as policy measures or technological advancements related to carbon mitigation. |
It is proposed as a future study in the discussion section. |
R1 |
Fourthly, a comparative analysis of various PMV types (e.g., bicycles vs. scooters) could reveal differences in attitudinal factors and usage patterns. |
Some elements of previous studies that compare types of PMV are included in the discussion section and are registered as a line of future research. |
R1 |
Finally, the study could delve into how attitudinal elements interact with other variables like social norms or perceived behavioral control in predicting actual usage behavior. |
The green ecological attitude and the relationships it has with the variables mentioned by the evaluator are deepened. |
R2 |
1) In Table 1, the socioeconomic stratum is shown numerically, so the categories are not understandable. A definition of the category corresponding to each numerical value should be explained. |
The socioeconomic strata are explained in Table 1, according to the Department of National Planning, in which homes or properties can be classified. |
R3 |
1. In the Introduction, a description of the identified problems/gaps and the proposed research, as well as the contribution of the study, is highly greatly recommended. |
Two paragraphs referring to the GAP and the contribution of the study are included in the Introduction section. |
R3 |
2. Similarly, in the literature review, I suggest comparing the pros and cons of commonly used methods and elaborating why TPB and TAM are chosen over the others. |
Elements supporting why the TAM and TPB were chosen are included in the Reference Framework section |
R3 |
3. What is the socioeconomic stratum in the Table 1? What does each stratum represent for? |
The socioeconomic strata are explained in Table 1, according to the Department of National Planning, in which homes or properties can be classified. |
R3 |
4. About the survey data, has there been any analysis to verify if the data is representative of PMV market users? Please explain in the paper. |
Information from the sample is included in Table 1, which addresses aspects such as: the most used means of transport, approximate travel time, the willingness to change a traditional vehicle for a PMVs and the willingness to pay for the shared use of this means of transportation. |
R3 |
5. In the Table 2, what are those variables (GA1, GA2, GA3, ...)? Please add explanations for each variable/indicator. |
They correspond to the Green Attitudes. Information is provided for each of the variables. |
R4 |
However, the integrated use of TAM and TPB to measure the attitudinal factors should be further considered. TPB is usually applied to measure the intention of behaviors. |
More information on the theories and the modified TAM and TPB model is included. |
R4 |
Attitude is one of the three traditional variables of TPB theory to measure intention. But in the current paper, the authors have used TPB to measure attitudes. Therefore, whether such integration is correct and necessary should be further elaborated. |
It delves into the ecological attitude and the relationships it has with other variables. They are evidenced in the results section. |
R5 |
Micromobility services offer a tempting solution to the "first/last mile" problem of getting around the city. That said, one must understand the attitude of preference toward these alternative modes of transportation.’ However, еhe article pays little attention to the software for implementation. It was desirable to present a comparison of methods for analysis in the form of a table. |
The benefits of the software used are highlighted. |
R5 |
The article is constructed logically correctly. The list of references is up-to-date. The article solves actual problem. Although the results are some what local, they can be scaled to larger samples of user groups. |
It is included as a possibility for future studies in the discussion section. |
We look forward to your comments and hope to hear from you soon.
Thank you very much
_
The authors
Reviewer 2 Report
This paper analyzes the relationship between the use of personal mobility vehicles and the feelings of enjoyment, usefulness, and green attitudes using a structural equation model. Assumptions concerning the relationships between factors in the analysis are presented with convincing explanations. In addition, the results are sufficiently statistically useful and highly reliable. Therefore, this paper is considered to contribute to the progress of research in this field. Minor corrections should be made to the following to facilitate the reader's understanding.
1) In Table 1, the socioeconomic stratum is shown numerically, so the categories are not understandable. A definition of the category corresponding to each numerical value should be explained.
Author Response
April 28, 2023
Dear
Sustainability – Editorial Team
Kind regards
In accordance with the suggestions of the reviewers in our article “Attitudinal Factors Associated with the Use of Bicycles and Electric Scooters”, the following changes were made, properly marked with red letters in the article:
Reviewer |
Comment |
Response |
R1 |
Firstly, the researchers could gather additional information about relevant literature sources. This would allow for a better understanding of the study's theoretical framework which is not currently strong. |
Additional sources are included in the Reference Framework section that strengthen the theoretical reference used in this study (TAM and TPB). |
R1 |
Secondly, providing more details about the sample's respondent characteristics, such as income, occupational roles and education levels, would help readers evaluate the sample's representativeness and provide new insights into covariate importance. |
All available sample information is included. |
R1 |
Thirdly, (and I appreciate this is a larger project) a longitudinal approach could be utilized to investigate attitude shifts towards PMVs over time, persistence in PMV use for those who do adopt, and the impact of dynamic external factors' impact, such as policy measures or technological advancements related to carbon mitigation. |
It is proposed as a future study in the discussion section. |
R1 |
Fourthly, a comparative analysis of various PMV types (e.g., bicycles vs. scooters) could reveal differences in attitudinal factors and usage patterns. |
Some elements of previous studies that compare types of PMV are included in the discussion section and are registered as a line of future research. |
R1 |
Finally, the study could delve into how attitudinal elements interact with other variables like social norms or perceived behavioral control in predicting actual usage behavior. |
The green ecological attitude and the relationships it has with the variables mentioned by the evaluator are deepened. |
R2 |
1) In Table 1, the socioeconomic stratum is shown numerically, so the categories are not understandable. A definition of the category corresponding to each numerical value should be explained. |
The socioeconomic strata are explained in Table 1, according to the Department of National Planning, in which homes or properties can be classified. |
R3 |
1. In the Introduction, a description of the identified problems/gaps and the proposed research, as well as the contribution of the study, is highly greatly recommended. |
Two paragraphs referring to the GAP and the contribution of the study are included in the Introduction section. |
R3 |
2. Similarly, in the literature review, I suggest comparing the pros and cons of commonly used methods and elaborating why TPB and TAM are chosen over the others. |
Elements supporting why the TAM and TPB were chosen are included in the Reference Framework section |
R3 |
3. What is the socioeconomic stratum in the Table 1? What does each stratum represent for? |
The socioeconomic strata are explained in Table 1, according to the Department of National Planning, in which homes or properties can be classified. |
R3 |
4. About the survey data, has there been any analysis to verify if the data is representative of PMV market users? Please explain in the paper. |
Information from the sample is included in Table 1, which addresses aspects such as: the most used means of transport, approximate travel time, the willingness to change a traditional vehicle for a PMVs and the willingness to pay for the shared use of this means of transportation. |
R3 |
5. In the Table 2, what are those variables (GA1, GA2, GA3, ...)? Please add explanations for each variable/indicator. |
They correspond to the Green Attitudes. Information is provided for each of the variables. |
R4 |
However, the integrated use of TAM and TPB to measure the attitudinal factors should be further considered. TPB is usually applied to measure the intention of behaviors. |
More information on the theories and the modified TAM and TPB model is included. |
R4 |
Attitude is one of the three traditional variables of TPB theory to measure intention. But in the current paper, the authors have used TPB to measure attitudes. Therefore, whether such integration is correct and necessary should be further elaborated. |
It delves into the ecological attitude and the relationships it has with other variables. They are evidenced in the results section. |
R5 |
Micromobility services offer a tempting solution to the "first/last mile" problem of getting around the city. That said, one must understand the attitude of preference toward these alternative modes of transportation.’ However, еhe article pays little attention to the software for implementation. It was desirable to present a comparison of methods for analysis in the form of a table. |
The benefits of the software used are highlighted. |
R5 |
The article is constructed logically correctly. The list of references is up-to-date. The article solves actual problem. Although the results are some what local, they can be scaled to larger samples of user groups. |
It is included as a possibility for future studies in the discussion section. |
We look forward to your comments and hope to hear from you soon.
Thank you very much
_
The authors
Reviewer 3 Report
Overall, the research is well explained. Here are some comments for consideration:
1. In the Introduction, a description of the identified problems/gaps and the proposed research, as well as the contribution of the study, is highly greatly recommended.
2. Similarly, in the literature review, I suggest comparing the pros and cons of commonly used methods and elaborating why TPB and TAM are chosen over the others.
3. What is the socioeconomic stratum in the Table 1? What does each stratum represent for?
4. About the survey data, has there been any analysis to verify if the data is representative of PMV market users? Please explain in the paper.
5. In the Table 2, what are those variables (GA1, GA2, GA3, ...)? Please add explanations for each variable/indicator.
Author Response
April 28, 2023
Dear
Sustainability – Editorial Team
Kind regards
In accordance with the suggestions of the reviewers in our article “Attitudinal Factors Associated with the Use of Bicycles and Electric Scooters”, the following changes were made, properly marked with red letters in the article:
Reviewer |
Comment |
Response |
R1 |
Firstly, the researchers could gather additional information about relevant literature sources. This would allow for a better understanding of the study's theoretical framework which is not currently strong. |
Additional sources are included in the Reference Framework section that strengthen the theoretical reference used in this study (TAM and TPB). |
R1 |
Secondly, providing more details about the sample's respondent characteristics, such as income, occupational roles and education levels, would help readers evaluate the sample's representativeness and provide new insights into covariate importance. |
All available sample information is included. |
R1 |
Thirdly, (and I appreciate this is a larger project) a longitudinal approach could be utilized to investigate attitude shifts towards PMVs over time, persistence in PMV use for those who do adopt, and the impact of dynamic external factors' impact, such as policy measures or technological advancements related to carbon mitigation. |
It is proposed as a future study in the discussion section. |
R1 |
Fourthly, a comparative analysis of various PMV types (e.g., bicycles vs. scooters) could reveal differences in attitudinal factors and usage patterns. |
Some elements of previous studies that compare types of PMV are included in the discussion section and are registered as a line of future research. |
R1 |
Finally, the study could delve into how attitudinal elements interact with other variables like social norms or perceived behavioral control in predicting actual usage behavior. |
The green ecological attitude and the relationships it has with the variables mentioned by the evaluator are deepened. |
R2 |
1) In Table 1, the socioeconomic stratum is shown numerically, so the categories are not understandable. A definition of the category corresponding to each numerical value should be explained. |
The socioeconomic strata are explained in Table 1, according to the Department of National Planning, in which homes or properties can be classified. |
R3 |
1. In the Introduction, a description of the identified problems/gaps and the proposed research, as well as the contribution of the study, is highly greatly recommended. |
Two paragraphs referring to the GAP and the contribution of the study are included in the Introduction section. |
R3 |
2. Similarly, in the literature review, I suggest comparing the pros and cons of commonly used methods and elaborating why TPB and TAM are chosen over the others. |
Elements supporting why the TAM and TPB were chosen are included in the Reference Framework section |
R3 |
3. What is the socioeconomic stratum in the Table 1? What does each stratum represent for? |
The socioeconomic strata are explained in Table 1, according to the Department of National Planning, in which homes or properties can be classified. |
R3 |
4. About the survey data, has there been any analysis to verify if the data is representative of PMV market users? Please explain in the paper. |
Information from the sample is included in Table 1, which addresses aspects such as: the most used means of transport, approximate travel time, the willingness to change a traditional vehicle for a PMVs and the willingness to pay for the shared use of this means of transportation. |
R3 |
5. In the Table 2, what are those variables (GA1, GA2, GA3, ...)? Please add explanations for each variable/indicator. |
They correspond to the Green Attitudes. Information is provided for each of the variables. |
R4 |
However, the integrated use of TAM and TPB to measure the attitudinal factors should be further considered. TPB is usually applied to measure the intention of behaviors. |
More information on the theories and the modified TAM and TPB model is included. |
R4 |
Attitude is one of the three traditional variables of TPB theory to measure intention. But in the current paper, the authors have used TPB to measure attitudes. Therefore, whether such integration is correct and necessary should be further elaborated. |
It delves into the ecological attitude and the relationships it has with other variables. They are evidenced in the results section. |
R5 |
Micromobility services offer a tempting solution to the "first/last mile" problem of getting around the city. That said, one must understand the attitude of preference toward these alternative modes of transportation.’ However, еhe article pays little attention to the software for implementation. It was desirable to present a comparison of methods for analysis in the form of a table. |
The benefits of the software used are highlighted. |
R5 |
The article is constructed logically correctly. The list of references is up-to-date. The article solves actual problem. Although the results are some what local, they can be scaled to larger samples of user groups. |
It is included as a possibility for future studies in the discussion section. |
We look forward to your comments and hope to hear from you soon.
Thank you very much
_
The authors
Reviewer 4 Report
The investigations of the use of micro-mobility vehicles such as bicycles and e-scooters are meaningful. However, the integrated use of TAM and TPB to measure the attitudinal factors should be further considered. TPB is usually applied to measure the intention of behaviors. Attitude is one of the three traditional variables of TPB theory to measure intention. But in the current paper, the authors have used TPB to measure attitudes. Therefore, whether such integration is correct and necessary should be further elaborated.
Author Response
April 28, 2023
Dear
Sustainability – Editorial Team
Kind regards
In accordance with the suggestions of the reviewers in our article “Attitudinal Factors Associated with the Use of Bicycles and Electric Scooters”, the following changes were made, properly marked with red letters in the article:
Reviewer |
Comment |
Response |
R1 |
Firstly, the researchers could gather additional information about relevant literature sources. This would allow for a better understanding of the study's theoretical framework which is not currently strong. |
Additional sources are included in the Reference Framework section that strengthen the theoretical reference used in this study (TAM and TPB). |
R1 |
Secondly, providing more details about the sample's respondent characteristics, such as income, occupational roles and education levels, would help readers evaluate the sample's representativeness and provide new insights into covariate importance. |
All available sample information is included. |
R1 |
Thirdly, (and I appreciate this is a larger project) a longitudinal approach could be utilized to investigate attitude shifts towards PMVs over time, persistence in PMV use for those who do adopt, and the impact of dynamic external factors' impact, such as policy measures or technological advancements related to carbon mitigation. |
It is proposed as a future study in the discussion section. |
R1 |
Fourthly, a comparative analysis of various PMV types (e.g., bicycles vs. scooters) could reveal differences in attitudinal factors and usage patterns. |
Some elements of previous studies that compare types of PMV are included in the discussion section and are registered as a line of future research. |
R1 |
Finally, the study could delve into how attitudinal elements interact with other variables like social norms or perceived behavioral control in predicting actual usage behavior. |
The green ecological attitude and the relationships it has with the variables mentioned by the evaluator are deepened. |
R2 |
1) In Table 1, the socioeconomic stratum is shown numerically, so the categories are not understandable. A definition of the category corresponding to each numerical value should be explained. |
The socioeconomic strata are explained in Table 1, according to the Department of National Planning, in which homes or properties can be classified. |
R3 |
1. In the Introduction, a description of the identified problems/gaps and the proposed research, as well as the contribution of the study, is highly greatly recommended. |
Two paragraphs referring to the GAP and the contribution of the study are included in the Introduction section. |
R3 |
2. Similarly, in the literature review, I suggest comparing the pros and cons of commonly used methods and elaborating why TPB and TAM are chosen over the others. |
Elements supporting why the TAM and TPB were chosen are included in the Reference Framework section |
R3 |
3. What is the socioeconomic stratum in the Table 1? What does each stratum represent for? |
The socioeconomic strata are explained in Table 1, according to the Department of National Planning, in which homes or properties can be classified. |
R3 |
4. About the survey data, has there been any analysis to verify if the data is representative of PMV market users? Please explain in the paper. |
Information from the sample is included in Table 1, which addresses aspects such as: the most used means of transport, approximate travel time, the willingness to change a traditional vehicle for a PMVs and the willingness to pay for the shared use of this means of transportation. |
R3 |
5. In the Table 2, what are those variables (GA1, GA2, GA3, ...)? Please add explanations for each variable/indicator. |
They correspond to the Green Attitudes. Information is provided for each of the variables. |
R4 |
However, the integrated use of TAM and TPB to measure the attitudinal factors should be further considered. TPB is usually applied to measure the intention of behaviors. |
More information on the theories and the modified TAM and TPB model is included. |
R4 |
Attitude is one of the three traditional variables of TPB theory to measure intention. But in the current paper, the authors have used TPB to measure attitudes. Therefore, whether such integration is correct and necessary should be further elaborated. |
It delves into the ecological attitude and the relationships it has with other variables. They are evidenced in the results section. |
R5 |
Micromobility services offer a tempting solution to the "first/last mile" problem of getting around the city. That said, one must understand the attitude of preference toward these alternative modes of transportation.’ However, еhe article pays little attention to the software for implementation. It was desirable to present a comparison of methods for analysis in the form of a table. |
The benefits of the software used are highlighted. |
R5 |
The article is constructed logically correctly. The list of references is up-to-date. The article solves actual problem. Although the results are some what local, they can be scaled to larger samples of user groups. |
It is included as a possibility for future studies in the discussion section. |
We look forward to your comments and hope to hear from you soon.
Thank you very much
_
The authors
Reviewer 5 Report
Dear authors of the article,
The article is presented to the actual problem the the sphere of micromobility in megacities. Micromobility is an integral part of the transport mobility of the population and has been developing rapidly in recent years.As cities face rapid population growth, the need to move more residents using existing transportation networks is becoming increasingly urgent. More than half of the world's population now lives in urban areas, and by 2050 that number could rise to two-thirds. All of these people will need to move around. The demand for urban passenger-kilometers across all modes of transportation could nearly double between 2025 and 2050. Micromobility services offer a tempting solution to the "first/last mile" problem of getting around the city. That said, one must understand the attitude of preference toward these alternative modes of transportation.’
However, еhe article pays little attention to the software for implementation. It was desirable to present a comparison of methods for analysis in the form of a table.
The article is constructed logically correctly. The list of references is up-to-date. The article solves actual problem. Although the results are some what local, they can be scaled to larger samples of user groups.
Author Response
April 28, 2023
Dear
Sustainability – Editorial Team
Kind regards
In accordance with the suggestions of the reviewers in our article “Attitudinal Factors Associated with the Use of Bicycles and Electric Scooters”, the following changes were made, properly marked with red letters in the article:
Reviewer |
Comment |
Response |
R1 |
Firstly, the researchers could gather additional information about relevant literature sources. This would allow for a better understanding of the study's theoretical framework which is not currently strong. |
Additional sources are included in the Reference Framework section that strengthen the theoretical reference used in this study (TAM and TPB). |
R1 |
Secondly, providing more details about the sample's respondent characteristics, such as income, occupational roles and education levels, would help readers evaluate the sample's representativeness and provide new insights into covariate importance. |
All available sample information is included. |
R1 |
Thirdly, (and I appreciate this is a larger project) a longitudinal approach could be utilized to investigate attitude shifts towards PMVs over time, persistence in PMV use for those who do adopt, and the impact of dynamic external factors' impact, such as policy measures or technological advancements related to carbon mitigation. |
It is proposed as a future study in the discussion section. |
R1 |
Fourthly, a comparative analysis of various PMV types (e.g., bicycles vs. scooters) could reveal differences in attitudinal factors and usage patterns. |
Some elements of previous studies that compare types of PMV are included in the discussion section and are registered as a line of future research. |
R1 |
Finally, the study could delve into how attitudinal elements interact with other variables like social norms or perceived behavioral control in predicting actual usage behavior. |
The green ecological attitude and the relationships it has with the variables mentioned by the evaluator are deepened. |
R2 |
1) In Table 1, the socioeconomic stratum is shown numerically, so the categories are not understandable. A definition of the category corresponding to each numerical value should be explained. |
The socioeconomic strata are explained in Table 1, according to the Department of National Planning, in which homes or properties can be classified. |
R3 |
1. In the Introduction, a description of the identified problems/gaps and the proposed research, as well as the contribution of the study, is highly greatly recommended. |
Two paragraphs referring to the GAP and the contribution of the study are included in the Introduction section. |
R3 |
2. Similarly, in the literature review, I suggest comparing the pros and cons of commonly used methods and elaborating why TPB and TAM are chosen over the others. |
Elements supporting why the TAM and TPB were chosen are included in the Reference Framework section |
R3 |
3. What is the socioeconomic stratum in the Table 1? What does each stratum represent for? |
The socioeconomic strata are explained in Table 1, according to the Department of National Planning, in which homes or properties can be classified. |
R3 |
4. About the survey data, has there been any analysis to verify if the data is representative of PMV market users? Please explain in the paper. |
Information from the sample is included in Table 1, which addresses aspects such as: the most used means of transport, approximate travel time, the willingness to change a traditional vehicle for a PMVs and the willingness to pay for the shared use of this means of transportation. |
R3 |
5. In the Table 2, what are those variables (GA1, GA2, GA3, ...)? Please add explanations for each variable/indicator. |
They correspond to the Green Attitudes. Information is provided for each of the variables. |
R4 |
However, the integrated use of TAM and TPB to measure the attitudinal factors should be further considered. TPB is usually applied to measure the intention of behaviors. |
More information on the theories and the modified TAM and TPB model is included. |
R4 |
Attitude is one of the three traditional variables of TPB theory to measure intention. But in the current paper, the authors have used TPB to measure attitudes. Therefore, whether such integration is correct and necessary should be further elaborated. |
It delves into the ecological attitude and the relationships it has with other variables. They are evidenced in the results section. |
R5 |
Micromobility services offer a tempting solution to the "first/last mile" problem of getting around the city. That said, one must understand the attitude of preference toward these alternative modes of transportation.’ However, еhe article pays little attention to the software for implementation. It was desirable to present a comparison of methods for analysis in the form of a table. |
The benefits of the software used are highlighted. |
R5 |
The article is constructed logically correctly. The list of references is up-to-date. The article solves actual problem. Although the results are some what local, they can be scaled to larger samples of user groups. |
It is included as a possibility for future studies in the discussion section. |
We look forward to your comments and hope to hear from you soon.
Thank you very much
_
The authors
Round 2
Reviewer 4 Report
I have no further comments.