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Today’s Goal:Better Bike Parking Facilities.
IntroductionAt the end of this session you will be able to… • Explain the importance and relevance of
bicycle parking best practices• Differentiate between best practices
based solutions and non-compliant options
• Understand spacing guidelines to create successful parking solutions
Why Bike Parking?• Governments & industry are paying attention to
bike infrastructure• Positive economic and health impact• Meet LEED & sustainability standards
Why Bike Parking?• Experiential benefits such as access, safety &
security from the cyclist’s perspective• Equality across all modes of transportation• Design complete streets & buildings
Alliance for Biking & Walking, 2014
Alliance for Biking & Walking, 2014
What are the Best Practices?• Simple and Obvious Function• Two Points of Contact• Compatible• Compliment Surroundings
Good ExamplesSome good examples of best practices based bike parking are: • Inverted U’s or A’s • Post & Ring• Cluster Rack or Hanger Rack
The Inverted ‘U’Two Points of Contact
The Post & Ring
The Hanger Rack
Poor Examples Racks that should be avoided include: • Toaster or Comb Racks • Spiral or Wave Racks• Wheel Benders
The Toaster
Narrow spacing reduces usability.
Desire to lock frame.
The Spiral
Angled rack results in tipping.
The Wheel Bender
Can’t lock the frame!
The Wave
Space hogs!!
• How much space does a cyclist & their bicycle need?–How much space do other modes of
transportation get?• You need room to move…• Theoretical vs. Actual bike parking spaces
Space Guidelines
Basic Dimensions
Short-Term Parking
• Typically, racks located outdoorsoShould be close to building entranceoPlaced for convenience (below)
Short-Term Site Planning: MACRO SCALE• As close as possible to the destination• Within 50 feet of the door – closer is better!• Visible from the destination• In a high traffic area• Weather protected
• Read the specs!• In general give at least three feet of clearance
around everything!• Consider pedestrian flows, disabled access,
and emergency access• Don’t cram it in
Short-Term Site Planning: Micro Scale
Long-Term• Long-Term ParkingoHigher securityoCan be further from the final destination o Intended to serve residents and commuters,
not the public
Long-Term Considerations
• Bike Shelters• Shared Bike Rooms or Bike Cages • Bike Lockers
AccessoriesThe right accessories provide extra value to bike parking facilities. • Repair Stand, Air pump, Tools • Lockers, Changing / Showering Facilities
Technical Considerations: Rack Construction and Installation
Surface Base Anchoring Method
Concrete Embedded leg Bore hole, support rack temporarily, fill
concrete, allow to set, remove supportSurface flange or base rail Wedge anchor bolt, tamper proof spike
Asphalt
Embedded leg Provide a concrete footing, proceed as above. Do not anchor into asphaltSurface flange
Base rail Landscape nails
Unpaved Embedded
Prove a concrete footing, proceed as aboveSurface flange
Base rail Landscape nails
Technical Considerations:Materials & Finish
Bicycle racks typically come in a number of finishes, each with their own pros and cons.
Finish Type Pro’s Con’s
Stainless Steel Most Durable Most Expensive
Hot DippedGalvanized Steel
Very Durable & Cost Effective
Rack may not appear finished, in comparison to
stainless or powder
Powder Coated Very Cost Effective Durability highly affected by the environment
Maintenance• Periodic check of bolts & anchors• Hanger racks may need straightening• Powder coating may need to be touched up
from time to time depending on climate and usage
Capacity How many do I need? • A tricky question… –Current demand–Future growth
• Survey / Count–Fly Parking–When / Where
Credits & Resources• Prepared by:–Adam Cooper MCIP, RPP - Registered Professional
Planner practicing in Transportation PlanningReference Points• APBP Bicycle Parking Guidelines• The Danish Cycling Federation• Thunder Bay Bicycle Parking Guidelines• Cycle Parking Guide for New Residential
Developments, City of Cambridge
Questions?
