Keep cycling! - A three-year follow-up study of cycling behavior of older cyclists.

INTRODUCTION: Older cyclists in the Netherlands continue to cycle at a higher age. While this is generally considered as positive, older cyclists are more likely to be involved in crashes leading to severe injuries compared to younger cyclists. However, little is known about how cycling behavior changes as people age. METHOD: This longitudinal study explored potential behavioral changes by measuring cycling behavior in 112 older cyclists (mean age = 72 years, SD = 5.7) over a three-year period, with measurements in spring and autumn to assess seasonal effects. Cycling speed and swerving were recorded during short bicycle rides and mounting and dismounting behavior were observed on a closed track. Additionally, cyclists reported on their cycling experiences over this period. Linear mixed-effects models were used to assess the effects of time, age, gender and location of the measurements. RESULTS: Participants were generally highly active cyclists. Linear mixed-effects models showed that cycling speed and swerving behavior remained stable over time, with no meaningful effects for age, gender, or season. Participants greatly increased their helmet use over the study period. Substantial gender differences were observed for mounting and dismounting behavior, which are related to differences in saddle height. CONCLUSIONS: Active older cyclists maintained stable cycling performance over a period of three years. Differences in saddle height between male and female cyclists result in different mounting and dismounting strategies. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Saddle height differences between older male and female cyclists highlight opportunities for improving bicycle design aimed at facilitating older cyclists.