Today’s Goal: Better Bike Parking Facilities

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?

Thank you!

Jason AlcottBusiness Development888-717-8881 x222jason@urbanracks.com