What are the health and well-being outcomes of using an e-bike as an alternative mode of transport?

Background: Little research has been undertaken in Australia that examines the health and well-being effects of using electric bikes (e­-bikes) as an alternative mode of transport, (Langford et al. 2016). A systematic review by Bourne et al. (2018) suggests the more research is needed to investigate the phycological impacts of using e-bikes. Objectives: To assess the potential for e-bikes to reduce commuter car travel in the Noosa Shire and to assess the health and well­being impacts related to e-­bike usage. Methods: Mixed Methods approach 20 participants (BMI between 25-50, inactive, drove to work regularly) 12 peeks Physical health assessments Bicycle safety workshop Survey tools *RAND: Measures of Quality of Life short form *Subjective Happiness Scale *DASS 21 *Active Australia Survey (eight questions) Semi structured interviews Results: Mental health benefits (feeling happy, decreased levels of stress, depression and anxiety) Increased levels of physical activity (high use - increased by 16hrs 54min/w; low use – increased by 7hrs 40 min/w) Influenced family and friends (thereby influencing mental health of others) Conclusions: In summary, riding an e-bike increase levels of happiness and improves mental health. Given that levels of stress, depression and anxiety are reduced as a result of using an e-bike, encouraging the use of e-bikes would benefit the mental health of Australians.