Multifaceted examination of bicycle-tourism experiences: Theoretical integration, non-linear dynamics, and segment heterogeneity

Abstract

This study assesses 428 Taiwanese bicycle tourists’ environmental awareness, leisure involvement, perceptions of destination attributes, perceptions of value, memorable tourism experiences, continuous intention, and word-of-mouth intention, and probes into the non-linear relationships among these factors. Data analysis utilized partial least squares structural equation modeling, complemented by quadratic analysis, multi-group comparison, and an importance-performance matrix assessment. Segment-wise, this revealed two broad types of bicycle-tourist preferences and behavioral patterns, i.e., serious and casual cyclists. Further, it established that perceived destination attributes were a key mediator between antecedent variables and positive outcomes. And lastly, the results demonstrate the existence of non-linear relationships among the elements that shape bicycle-tourism experiences. These findings provide valuable insights for destination managers, and highlight how tailoring tourism services to match the unique needs of the two identified segments could yield competitive advantages and improved experiences, and ultimately bring the bicycle-tourism industry sustainable benefits.