Two-wheeled mobility: a scoping review of bicycle sharing systems in Colombia

This study aims to identify bicycle-sharing systems as a means of active transportation in Colombia. A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines and PRISMA-ScR reporting standards. A systematic search in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Bireme, EBSCO, and Transport Research International Documentation was completed until 10 December 2024. Record selection in Rayyan followed a two-stage blinded review by two independent reviewers. Data extraction followed the same approach, and results were synthesised descriptively. Of 1492 records identified, 20 met the inclusion criteria: articles (n = 5), theses (n = 3), reports (n = 2), websites (n = 8), a user manual, and press release. Evidence indicates environmental and health benefits associated with use. Local evaluations estimated carbon dioxide reductions of thousands of tonnes and increases in user physical activity (mean 152 min/week). However, persistent challenges included marked gender disparities in use (male-dominant proportions up to 79%–82%), theft and security incidents, road safety concerns, and a lack of longitudinal, rigorous impact evaluations limiting assessment of medium- and long-term effects. Bicycle-sharing systems promote sustainable and healthy mobility in Colombia. However, road safety and gender equity challenges persist, highlighting the need for infrastructure improvements, impact assessments, and awareness campaigns.