- Topic
- Walking and cycling
- Country
- Europe-wide
- Resource type
- Case study
The BITS (Bicycles and Intelligent Transport Systems) project was a four-year Interreg North Sea Region initiative (2019–2022) that promoted cycling through Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS). It created digital tools like the CycleDataHub and BITS Directory, built a community of 1,000+ stakeholders, and delivered over 30 projects across five countries, demonstrating a range of ITS solutions.
Through these innovations, BITS supported improved infrastructure planning, and informed policy development, with the goal of increasing the take-up of cycling and reducing emissions. Its successor, MegaBITS (Mobilising Europe's Green Ambitions through Bicycles and Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS)), focuses on the strategic digitalisation of cycling infrastructure and expands EU-level integration through collaboration with the CEF-funded NAPCORE (National Access Point Coordination Organisation for Europe) and EMDS (common European Mobility Data Space) projects.
This case study presents the key outcomes of BITS, highlighting its innovative use of advanced technologies in the cycling and ITS sectors.
Context
Urban areas in Europe face increasing challenges related to congestion, pollution, population growth and public health. A modal shift toward green transport, particularly cycling, can help to address these issues. Cycling works both as an independent mode of transport and as part of a wider multimodal system. To fully integrate cycling and strengthen its role in a transport system, comprehensive data is essential.
The BITS project aimed to leverage Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) to increase cycling uptake and improve environmental outcomes. The project included countries with high cycling rates, such as Belgium, Denmark, and the Netherlands, as well as countries aiming to grow cycling, including Germany and the United Kingdom.
However, BITS had to start from scratch when integrating ITS into cycling. While many initiatives and regulations already existed for other modes, similar systems for cycling were not available. BITS first had to identify available datasets and create a harmonised platform for collecting, sharing and comparing cycling data (i.e. Cycle Data Hub).
The project tested and demonstrated the potential of ITS for cycling to contribute to key societal goals, including improving public health, reducing transport-related emissions, and using urban space, travel time and public investment more efficiently.
ITS tools can support these goals in two main ways. Firstly, by encouraging cycling directly through digital applications and secondly, by generating valuable data that supports evidence-based policymaking. This creates a virtuous circle, with better cycling infrastructure and services attracting more cyclists, which generates more data - and this leads to further improvements.
The BITS approach was based on the Bicycle Pyramid, developed by Mark van Hagen (Nederlandse Spoorwegen) and Bas Govers (Goudappel Coffeng) in 2019. Inspired by Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, the model prioritises cyclists’ basic needs, such as safety and reliability, before addressing higher-level factors like comfort and speed. For example, safety-related ITS applications such as Smart Junction Warnings are prioritised.
Although the BITS project is now complete, it has been succeeded by MegaBITS, which builds on its achievements. MegaBITS continues to explore how ITS can make cycling more accessible and attractive by improving the usability of connected cycling technologies. It also strengthens data sharing through collaboration with major European initiatives, including NAPCORE and EMDS.
Both BITS and MegaBITS have been funded by the European Regional Development Fund through the Interreg North Sea Programme.
In action
The BITS project implemented more than 30 pilot applications across Belgium (BE), Denmark (DK), Germany (DE), the Netherlands (NL) and the UK, demonstrating how digital solutions and Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) can make cycling safer, more attractive and more accessible.
Cycling safety
Several cities tested smart infrastructure to improve cycling safety and comfort. In Aarhus (DK), smart LED lighting on cycling lanes automatically turned on when a cyclist approached, reducing energy use and light pollution.
In Zwolle (NL), dynamic signs warned drivers when cyclists were nearby. Utrecht (NL) used feedback signs to reduce speeding among cyclists in busy areas, while Hengelo (NL) encouraged group cycling by rewarding coordinated behaviour with green light priority.
Access, Inclusion and Sharing
To make cycling more available, the East Riding of Yorkshire (UK) launched a bike library that lent out sensor-equipped bikes to low-income residents, collecting valuable data for local policy. Overijssel (NL) tested two bike-sharing schemes: one for tourists and residents in Steenwijkerland, and another limited to students in Zwolle (NL). Oldenburg (DE) implemented OLi-bikes offering discounted access for holders of annual public transport tickets and JobTickets (a subsidised transport pass provided by employers to support sustainable commuting).
Smarter Parking and Traffic Flow
BITS also focused on parking solutions. Zwolle (NL) introduced digital signs showing available bike parking, while Bruges (BE) installed sensors and screens in underground facilities to guide cyclists to free spots and collect data on usage.
For traffic flow, cities like Aarhus (DK) and Zwolle (NL) implemented smart traffic light systems that detected approaching cyclists and extended green phases, improving safety and reducing waiting times.
Nudging and Engagement
Behavioural change was encouraged through apps and interactive tools. Oldenburg (DE) used apps to incentivise cycling with rewards and by providing insights to users on their own cycling activity, while Utrecht (NL) rewarded cyclists by planting trees for every 100 riders. In Aarhus (DK), travel time comparisons between cycling and driving were displayed, nudging drivers to switch modes.
Data Collection and Platforms
BITS explored both collecting cycling data and collecting data with the support of cyclists. Static and GPS-based systems were deployed in various locations to monitor usage patterns, safety, and infrastructure quality. In Bruges (BE), a “measuring bike” assessed route comfort, while in Zwolle (NL), residents helped gather air quality data using mounted sensors.
Two key digital tools were developed:
- CycleDataHub: A publicly accessible, Geographic Information System (GIS)-based platform that brings together public cycling data from more than 100 sources. It allows users to explore indicators like infrastructure, usage, safety, health, and environmental impact. In MegaBITS, it is evolving into a Cycle Data Space aligned with the European Mobility Data Space.
- BITS Directory: An open access platform where governments and businesses can find and compare smart cycling products and services. Users can filter by maturity, application, or audience and view best practice examples.
Together, these activities laid the groundwork for more connected, inclusive, and data-informed cycling ecosystems - showcasing how ITS can become a powerful tool in sustainable mobility policy.
Results
The BITS project produced a range of practical outputs, including a comprehensive lessons learned report that guides cities and organisations on implementing cycling-related ITS. It covers topics such as stakeholder engagement, procurement, operations and policy integration, and promotes a “data reflex” approach: a structured method for collecting, understanding, processing and sharing cycling data to support decision making.
The project’s recommendations are grounded in the results from over 30 pilot applications. Key examples include:
Smart LED lighting in Aarhus (DK)
Aarhus tested dynamic rope lighting that activates when cyclists approach – an ideal solution for ecologically sensitive areas where conventional lighting is unsuitable. Cyclists reported a greater sense of safety and better visibility, while the installation added aesthetic value. However, the high cost remains a downside.
Green-light extension in Aarhus (DK)
Sensors installed at downhill intersections detected fast-moving cyclists and extended green phases when needed. Most cyclists arrived during a green light, reporting higher comfort and safety. This ITS application demonstrates how subtle infrastructure upgrades can significantly improve cyclist experience and reduce crash risks.
Smart bike library in the East Riding of Yorkshire (UK)
Despite initial COVID-related delays, the smart bike library successfully increased cycling among low-income residents. Supported by “cycle buddies” and real-time sensor data, participants adopted new travel habits. Data collected on trip patterns, speeds and road conditions provided valuable input for local mobility planning and social inclusion strategies.
Green-wave traffic lights in Overijssel (NL)
In Overijssel (NL), green-wave traffic lights encouraged cyclists to form groups, improving safety and efficiency at intersections. Pairing ITS deployment with behavioural campaigns and investing early in reliable technology were key success factor. Future ideas include extending green waves to individual cyclists during off-peak hours.
Measuring bike in Bruges (BE)
The city of Bruges (BE) deployed a sensor-equipped bike to assess the comfort and quality of its cycling network. The tool offered quick, objective data to identify bumps and surface issues. Partnering with the Fietsersbond (Cyclists’ Union) helped ensure trust and smooth implementation. The only challenge was ensuring consistency in data collection over time, especially as technologies evolve.
In 2024, BITS won the REGIOSTARS Award in the category Connected Europe, recognising its pioneering use of ITS to increase cycling uptake. The jury praised the project’s innovative approach and the successful demonstration of 33 tailored solutions adapted to diverse local contexts.
Challenges, opportunities and transferability
The BITS project identified key challenges and opportunities for scaling digital cycling solutions across Europe. Its dedicated Recommendations Report supports transferability by addressing regulatory, technical and organisational barriers, while promoting EU-aligned data harmonisation. The report provides targeted advice for stakeholders and encourages collaboration to deliver scalable, sustainable and interoperable ITS for cycling.
Policy makers and local/regional authorities are advised to adopt long-term, coordinated cycling strategies backed by reliable ITS data. The report highlights the importance of combining objective and subjective indicators to develop infrastructure that is safe, fast and comfortable. Standardising data and improving communication are key to fostering behavioural change and ensuring wider uptake.
Mobility planners and engineers are encouraged to prioritise interventions based on cost-effectiveness and potential cycling uptake. Pilots showed that consistent data collection, proper location selection, and user-centred design are crucial. Combining quantitative data with cyclist experiences increases trust and impact, while integrating ITS into daily planning practices requires new forms of technical expertise.
Project managers and researchers are urged to ground pilots in behavioural science and consider diverse user groups. Evaluations should consider both short- and long-term effects with follow-up measurements to assess lasting behavioural change.
Private companies and solution providers are encouraged to develop interoperable, standards-compliant tools and collaborate closely with public authorities. Sharing expertise, enabling responsible data access, and contributing to platforms like the Cycle Data Hub can support long-term success and policy relevance.
From BITS to MegaBITS: A strategic evolution
BITS laid the foundation for MegaBITS, which adopts a more strategic and standardised approach. MegaBITS expands core tools such as the Cycle Data Hub and BITS Directory, aligning data practices with NAPCORE and EMDS. It introduces new data types (e.g. floating bike data, radar, GPS, and camera data) and collaborates with the CEF-funded project MERIDIAN, setting up a Smart Cycling Task Force and co-developing a roadmap for smart cycling in Europe.
Current MegaBITS pilots include:
- Copenhagen (DK): integrating service goals into traffic plans, restarting simulation models, and using variable message signs.
- Hamburg (DE): automating data aggregation, integrating bike data into traffic models, and evaluating the effects of the green wave Green Light Optimised Speed Advisory (GLOSA) app.
- Overijssel (NL): stimulating cycling and prioritising cyclists at intersections via an app, use Variable Message Signs to inform cyclists, and building a data dashboard and digital twin.
- Antwerp (BE): building a citizen participation platform and mobility potential tool.
- Le Havre Seine Métropole (FR): collecting cycling data (counting, speed), cycling data analysis and smart bike parking.
Overall, BITS and MegaBITS show that the combination of data-driven insights, cross-sector collaboration, and user-focused design can successfully support a connected, inclusive, and digital cycling future across Europe.
In depth
Interreg North Sea– BITS project
Interreg North Sea – MegaBITS project
Author: Claus Köllinger
Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.
Photo credits © - BITS project