About public use bike racks

Public Use Bike Racks

Since close to two million bikes are stolen each year in the United States, it is important to install durable and reliable bike racks in locations such as shopping centers, restaurants, movie theatres, parks, playgrounds and metro stations.

Bike racks are often difficult to find at public locations due to the design and function of various stores, movie theatres, etc. Many public and private agencies have restrictions as to the locations where bike racks can be installed. For example, bike racks should be located so that they do not interfere with vehicle or pedestrian traffic. However, by locating bike racks in areas that do not interfere with traffic, it is often difficult for the rider to locate the bike racks. Thus, it is important that the bike racks be visible to the rider. In fact, bike racks should not only be visible to the rider, but they should be accessible, simple to use and abundant.

It is also important when parking your bike at a public location, that the bike rack support the entire bike, not just one wheel, as was the case with the older bike racks. The rider should be able to securely lock the bike with a cable or U-shaped lock.

If a rider is parking his bike for an extended period of time, such as all day at a metro station, it is best to find covered parking to keep the bike secure and safe from the weather elements. Some agencies have taken to surveying local bikers as to their opinions and habits regarding bike parking. As a result, the agencies are able to determine high usage areas, so that the proper bike racks can be installed at those locations.

When a determination has been made as to the general locations for bike racks, the next step is to determine the exact place to install the bike rack. This location should be visible and accessible to the bike rider. The bike racks should be installed in public locations on a wide sidewalk so that there is enough space for pedestrians to walk without stumbling over a bike rack. The bike racks are often installed near a curb so that the racks do not hinder pedestrian traffic especially near entries and exits of buildings. Bike racks can also be installed in or near bus stops or loading zones (if they do not interfere with vehicle or foot traffic). Bike racks must also be set apart from fire hydrants.

It is important that bike racks in public locations be installed for security reasons and to be versatile enough to accommodate all types of bikes.

Some cities and towns will designate areas for "long term" or "short term" bike parking. The long term parking may have covered facilities such as bike lockers, whereas the short term parking may have more conventional styles of bike racks. Regardless of the duration, bike racks should be installed for the main purpose of discouraging thieves.

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