Exploring the Spatial and Temporal Performance of Bike Sharing: A Case Study of Ningbo, China

This study explores the temporal–spatial characteristics of bike sharing. Survey regions were divided into five zones types: residential, administrative, commercial, tourist, and metro stations in downtown Ningbo. Real-time usage data obtained from 28 survey points showed that usage of bike sharing in evening peak periods was higher than in morning peak periods in terms of temporal characteristics. In addition, usage quantity was slightly higher during weekdays than weekends. In terms of spatial characteristics, usage quantity of bike sharing was higher in metro stations and commercial districts. However, the amount in residential areas was lowest. On weekdays, a usage tidal phenomenon was noted in commercial and tourist zones, as well as in metro stations during weekends. The amount of bike sharing decreased in administrative zones during weekends, but was still observed in commercial and tourist zones. The results of this study provide a reliable basis for urban bike-sharing dispatch management.