A report released by the Minnesota Department of Transportation calculates the economic impact of the bicycling industry and events in Minnesota. It also estimates bicycling infrastructure use across the state, and assesses the health effects of bicycling in the Twin Cities metropolitan area (TCMA).
A survey of bicycling-related manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, non-profit, and advocacy groups finds that the industry as a whole produced a total of $779.9 million of economic activity in 2014.
Using data from multiple sources, the number of bicycle trips in Minnesota was estimated to be between 75.2 million and 96 million annually. The TCMA accounts for 69 percent to 72 percent of the total number of trips and miles traveled in Minnesota.
Bicycling events, including races, non-race rides, fundraising events, mountain bicycling events, high school races, and bicycle tours, produced an estimated total of $14.3 million of economic activity in 2014. All six types of bicycling events mainly attract white, non-Hispanic male participants. “Riding my bicycle” was the most frequently identified reason to attend an event (except for fundraising event participants).
Bicycle commuting is estimated to prevent 12 to 61 deaths per year, saving $100 million to $500 million. Bicycle commuting three times per week was also linked to 46 percent decrease in the chance metabolic syndrome, 32 percent decrease in the chance of obesity, and 28 percent decrease in the chance of hypertension, all of which lower medical costs. The study concludes that bicycling provides many positive benefits and that evidence supports efforts to promote bicycling-related industry, infrastructure, events, and activities.