What would it take for you to give up your car and hop on a bicycle to get to work? That's the question that Portland State University researchers want to figure out.

AP

Linda Ginenthal, right, leads co-workers for a ride through downtown Portland.

Assistant professor Jennifer Dill is currently working on the second part of a study looking into bicycling behavior. It may be the first in-depth study of its kind in Portland.

Researchers were tracking which routes bicyclists use and why, using global positioning devices.

"Put it on your bike and go, there's nothing you have to do while you're riding it's a passive measurement device," said PSU graduate student Kim Voros.

The data will eventually be mapped out so researchers can learn more about bicycling behavior. Already, the first part of the research found some interesting facts about who are the most avid bicyclists.

"Those are more likely to be younger for sure, younger adults, and they're more likely to be men to do that," said Dill.

Researchers also found out why most people choose not to bike. “The biggest barrier, at least physical barrier, that people mentioned was too much traffic," said Dill.

The study also found Southeast Portland had the most bicyclists because of the flat routes and easy access into Downtown Portland.

When this study is complete, experts hope to use the data to find ways to encourage occasional bicyclists to ride more.

The research project will continue tracking volunteer bicyclists through the summer.