Hop on for pioneering 'happiness biking index' study

Rachael Ng

Researchers at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology are launching a survey of 1,000 cyclists to establish the "happy biking index" for evaluating whether cycling will increase people's happiness.

The researchers, who are collaborating with local bike-sharing company LocoBike, hope that the survey results could help the administration in formulating "bicycle-friendly" policies and shaping traffic and transportation strategies for areas such as the Northern Metropolis Area and the San Tin Technopole.

The survey will last for eight weeks starting today. Interested bikers can fill out the consent form by confirming that they are 18 years of age or older and are able to read Chinese in the LocoBike app, if they wish to participate in the study.

Participants will have to complete a minimum of two sets of questionnaires every week by filling out their pre- and post-biking experience, with questions focusing on their subjective experience of cycling on a five-point rating scale.

Following the weekly survey, participants will be invited to complete an additional 10-minute questionnaire regarding their habits and personal encounters.

After completing the questionnaire, the study will randomly select participants who will receive HK$200 supermarket e-coupons as rewards.

Supported by the HKUST Sports Science and Technology Research Grant, Michelle Yik Oi-yee, from the social sciences division, collaborated with LocoBike to study the "relationship between cycling and well-being."

"I hope to conduct a controlled scientific research which is made in Hong Kong," Yik said. "The research is unique as we collect instant responses from the cyclists, not a few hours or days after riding."

LocoBike founder Ken Ching Chun-ho said: "We hope to help the government in planning cycling tracks and creating a cycling-friendly community."

rachael.ng@singtaonewscorp.com