Bike Parking

Amenities like dedicated bike parking supplement the broader bicycle network, by providing cyclists with a way to confidently plan bicycle trips and comfortably spend time in places. Bike parking can enable more multimodal trips by providing space for people to secure their bikes at transit stations and can expand the impact area of a transit system or nearby bike facility. Always consider the location, quantity, and security of the bike parking demanded by site context.

Bike racks shaped like swans. 
 
A photo of a bicycle parking area within a parklet.
Orlando (Orlando Bike Plan Update) Berlin, Germany (Wikimedia Commons,
gislars, CC0)

 

Program Goals This Project Type Meets

  • Invite public use
  • Improve business
  • Improve travel options

Typical Applications

  • Short Term (trips <2 hours): Bicycle racks installed on sidewalks or in plazas; bicycle valet programs, which operate like coat checks (usually for events). 
  • Long Term (2-24hrs): Access-controlled spaces which provide security from theft and protection from the elements, often located near transit hubs or key walking and biking generators. These systems range from free (but registration required) to subscription-based. 

Material Options

  • Short Term: U Racks, post and ring, wheel well-secure racks
    • For bicycle valet programs, saw horses or other crowd-control barricades work well as temporary bicycle racks, but they should be confined within a defined and secure perimeter, such as a large room, fencing, or other barriers.
  • Mid-Term: Short-term options with shelter
  • Long Term: Bike lockers, Bike cages

Design Considerations

  • Designs should consider ability to accommodate standard U-locks and provide at least two points of contact to provide functionality and security. 
  • Materials should be securely fastened to the ground and not easily cut or detached by common hand tools (bolt cutters, wrenches, pry bars)
  • Provide adequate space between adjacent racks such that bicycles can be parked on either side. Racks should leave enough room between adjacent parked vehicles (e.g., for U racks, minimum 15 inches should be left between racks)
  • Bike parking should not encroach on the walkway where it (empty or full) would pose a tripping hazard

Other Considerations

  • Bike racks, lockers, secure bike cages, or bike corrals may be considered as in-street options, particularly in repurposed parking spaces near a low-volume intersection. This keeps the sidewalk clear for pedestrians and “daylights” the crossings for turning vehicles which may have otherwise had a parked car in their blind spot.
  • Consider providing shelter for bike parking
  • Consider not only the volume of anticipated bike parking demand but the type of bikes, including cargo and e-bikes, which typically have bigger footprints
  • If a non-traditional or artistic design is used to increase community character, ensure the blueprint meets design standards. Cyclists will not use a bike rack which they cannot confidently secure their bike to.

Other Resources

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