Suggested Citation:
Fang, Kevin (2016)

Skateboarding for Transportation: An Exploration of the Characteristics and Travel Behavior of an Emerging Active Travel Mode

. Institute of Transportation Studies, University of California, Davis, Dissertation UCD-ITS-RR-16-44

Abstract:

Skateboarding is typically thought of as a form of recreation. However, individuals can and are also using skateboards for utilitarian purposes as an active travel mode. Skateboarding is not commonly measured in travel surveys, but studies that do include skateboarding as a possible mode choice option have found measurable amounts of skateboard travel. While skateboard travel is occurring, skateboard travel has been lightly explored in existing literature. This study performs an initial investigation into the characteristics of skateboard travel and travelers, and planning implications that skateboard travel raises. This includes an investigation of travel behavior and the reasons individuals choose to skateboard for travel instead of using other modes. Additionally, this study investigates the physical behavior of skateboarders such as their travel speed and motion along transportation facilities, the safety performance of skateboard travel, and how policy and regulations treat skateboard travelers. Information was gathered from several methods including a review of literature and data, as well as physical observations, surveys, and interviews of skateboard travelers.