Paper short abstract:

Commercial motorcycles have emerged to be a mode of transportation in some developing countries despite the hazards linked to its operation. This paper tried to identify factors affecting the adoption of this mode of transportation and investigated sustainability of this mode of transportation

Paper long abstract:

Commercial Motorcycle (popularly known as Okada in Nigeria) has emerged to be a popular mode of transportation in Nigeria, Africa and other developing countries.Commercial motorcycle transport:a para-transit mode, has perculiarites which often makes it a choice of transportation for both drivers and users commuting short distances. These include its fuel efficiency compared to other automobiles, adaptabilty to navigate traffic congestion, provision of door to door service, cost of procurement and maintenance, etc. It also serves as means of livelihood for both drivers and mechanics. However, commercial motorcycle operation is known with several challenges.

Several factors have being identified to contribute to this development and challenges; which includes urban sprawl, poor city planning and public transportation services, road congestion, poor road networks and bad shape of road infrastructure, unemployment and economic hardship.

Data obtained from sampled cities show that majority of the okada operators are young males in the ages bracket of 18-40 years. The hazard associated with the commercial motorcycle business limits the participation of women. A reasonable number of the operators use the motorcycles as a full time job; and others on part time basis. Interestingly civil servants, artisans and students engage in part-time driving according to data obtained from different studies. Alcohol intake some drivers cause reckless behavior and engagement in risky driving. Commercial motorcycle business is far from being sustainable and needs proper regulations

This study made some policy recommendations to integrate motorcycle mode of transportation into a sustainable mobility framework in developing countries