Mapping a decade of bike-sharing research published between (2015–2025): A systematic and bibliometric review highlighting gaps and future trends

Abstract

Since the inception of bike sharing in the Netherlands in 1962, bike-sharing has evolved worldwide. However, comprehensive reviews of its global development, technological advancements, and research directions remain limited in existing literature published before July 2015. This review integrated systematic and bibliometric methodologies to analyze bike-sharing global literature published between July 2015 and July 2025. Initially 15,982 papers were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and IEEE Xplore based on refined search terms such as "bike-sharing," "bike share," "shared bicycle," and "public bicycle", then relevant studies corresponding to 3,013 papers we selected for in-depth analysis. Bibliometric analysis identified research clusters, leading authors and emerging trends, while the systematic review synthesized thematic insights on technological innovations, policy and operational outcomes. Findings revealed that GPS and mobile apps have enhanced bike-sharing accessibility and operational efficiency. For example, GPS usage enabled real-time tracking and rebalancing, reducing shortages and surpluses at the station. Mobile app features such as route optimization and integrated payment systems have increased user engagement. Beyond operational gains, this system contributes to traffic congestion reduction, air quality improvement, cost-savings, first and last mile solutions. However, gaps remain, particularly in: (1) sociocultural factors such as gender and cultural norms (1.8%); (2) equity in station placement and pricing (3.3%); and (3) empirical evaluation of policy effectiveness (10%); (4) multimodal integration (1%), (5) identification of accurate models for predicting biking adoption or preference (3.4%). This review not only consolidates the existing literature but also sets the agenda for future investigations into bike sharing. • This review combined bibliometric and systematic in analysis of bike-sharing literature • A total of 15,982 papers were initially retrieved from four major databases • A total of 3,013 relevant publications were selected for in-depth analysis. • GPS, mobile applications, and AI-based tools emerged as major technological drivers • Bike-sharing systems contribute to reduced traffic congestion, and improved air quality • The review highlights underexplored areas including long-term impacts of AI and IoT