3 ms·
I'm not actually a huge fan of the word "micromobility". It makes it sound small, like it's only for going just around the corner or something. But long before
by mcv 4y ago
I'm not actually a huge fan of the word "micromobility". It makes it sound small, like it's only for going just around the corner or something. But long before the introduction of electric bikes, people have already been using regular bikes for lots of travel within cities, and even outside it. Electric bikes make those distances more accessible to people with less stamina, but certainly the faster electric bikes and scooters, and even human powered streamlined recumbent bikes, at perfect for medium-distance travel outside cities.
It's not small-scale mobility; it's just mobility. More efficient mobility. Smarter mobility.
- ryukafalz 4y agoIt’s smaller-scale than automobility though, which is what people are used to. I agree it’s not perfect, but I think we need a better designator than “bike lanes” for the type of infrastructure we’re aiming for. It can and should be used by more than just cyclists; cycle tracks can also be great for those using e.g. mobility scooters: https://youtu.be/xSGx3HSjKDo https://youtu.be/xSGx3HSjKDo In the Netherlands there are enough cyclists that it works, but here in the US I feel like the term “cyclist” is often used as a pejorative. Making the name more inclusive of varying modes I think might help to counter this.
- mcv 4y agoMaybe "light mobility"? I considered "smart mobility", but that has a bit too much of a value judgement in it (though I definitely agree with that judgement).
- ryukafalz 4y agoLight mobility sounds pretty good to me honestly. Though the term “micromobility” has caught on pretty well, so this may be a losing battle. :)