Bicycle parking rack

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White cycles for free use in Hoge Veluwe National Park, the Netherlands Witte fietsen de hoge veluwe.jpg
White cycles for free use in Hoge Veluwe National Park, the Netherlands

A bicycle parking rack, usually shortened to bike rack and also called a bicycle stand, is a device to which bicycles can be securely attached for parking purposes. [1] [2] [3] [4] It may be freestanding, or securely attached to the ground or a stationary object, such as a building. Indoor racks are commonly used for private bicycle parking, while outdoor racks are often used in commercial areas. General styles of racks include the Inverted U, Serpentine, Bollard, Grid, and Decorative. [5] The most effective and secure bike racks are those that can secure both wheels and the frame of the bicycle, using a bicycle lock.

Contents

Bike racks can be constructed from a number of materials, including stainless steel, steel, recycled plastic, and thermoplastic. Durability, weather resistance, appearance and functionality are important factors when choosing this material. [5]

Bicycle locked to a stand in a street, London Bicycle stand in a street, London.png
Bicycle locked to a stand in a street, London

The visibility of the bike rack, adequate spacing from automobile parking and pedestrian traffic, weather coverage, and proximity to destinations are all important factors determining usefulness of a bicycle rack, helping to increase its usage and assure cyclists that their bikes are securely parked. [6]

History

Simple grooved bicycle rack (2006) Low-tech bicycle rack at Bailiffscourt Hotel - geograph.org.uk - 1593931.jpg
Simple grooved bicycle rack (2006)

Early models tend to offer a means of securing one wheel: these can be a grooved piece of concrete in the ground, a forked piece of metal into which a wheel of the bicycle is pushed, or a horizontal "ladder" providing positions for the front wheel of many bicycles. These are not very effective, since a thief need only detach the wheel in question from the bicycle to free the rest of the bicycle. They also do not offer much support, and a row of bicycles in this type of stand are susceptible to all being toppled in a domino effect. These types of stand are known as "wheel benders" among cyclists.

Sheffield racks Cycle Rack, Ferensway, Hull - geograph.org.uk - 947416.jpg
Sheffield racks

A modern version is known as the "Sheffield rack" or "Sheffield stand" after the city of Sheffield in England where these were pioneered. [7] These consist of a thick metal bar or tube bent into the shape of a square arch. The top part is about level with the top bar of the bicycle frame, and thus supports the bicycle and allows the frame to be secured. The origin of the racks was when the frugal citizens of Sheffield had to decide what to do with some old gas piping.[ citation needed ] Local cyclists suggested the cycle rack idea and two simple bends later, and a little concrete in the ground, the rack was born. At the time this was a revolution in a world of 'single-point holders' that bent wheels and offered little lockability for frames. A version of this design feature a second, lower horizontal bar to support smaller bikes (this version is also known as "A stand"), and are coated to reduce their surface hardness and to not scratch the bike's paintwork.

Ladder type in Germany Fahrradstander Feld.JPG
Ladder type in Germany

Since 1984 the City of Toronto has installed post and ring bicycle racks [8] consisting of a steel bollard or post topped by a cast aluminium ring. [9] In August 2006, it became publicly known that these stands could be defeated by prying the ring off with a two-by-four. Therefore, limiting its effectiveness in high-crime areas.

In Amsterdam two-tiered bicycle stands are ubiquitous. Bikes can be parked in a smaller area as the handlebars (usually wider than the back of the bicycle) of every other one is at a different height (either high or low). These racks are made of steel and have a large bar to which the frame may be easily locked. Most Dutch bicycles have a rear wheel lock, so that wheel need not be locked.

Classes

Bike parking needs vary from environment to environment.

Class I
Some locations require Class I standards (commonly referred to as long-term bike parking). Class I parking regulations[ according to whom? ] are implemented when bicycles will be parked for hours at a time. Examples of these environments are office buildings, elementary schools, libraries, etc. When implementing Class I bike racks, installers should also incorporate some form of weather protection for the racks and bikes. [6] (See also Bicycle parking station.)
Class II
More commonly seen in public areas are Class II bike racks.[ according to whom? ] These bike racks are needed when cyclists will be leaving their bikes unattended for less than two hours. Weather protection is not as important for this class, however proximity to main attractions and public visibility should be considered to encourage usage and enhance security. Class II bike racks can be implemented near restaurants, parks, picnic areas, or other similar places. [10]

Design

Styles

Many different styles of bike rack are available to match any environment. Specific details such as bolt size, tubing diameter, tubing style (square or round), height, length, and many other things vary with manufacturer, but typically, there are six general styles of commercial bike rack. [10] [3] [11]

NameVariant namesDescriptionImages
U-rackStaple, Sheffield rackBasic bike rack that is used in urban areas because it can be placed along sidewalks without taking too much space away from pedestrians. [12]
U-rack bolted to the ground. Unknown location. U Rack.png
U-rack bolted to the ground. Unknown location.
Massed ranks of U-racks at Cambridge Leisure Park, Cambridge, England Cycle racks at Cineworld - geograph.org.uk - 854220.jpg
Massed ranks of U-racks at Cambridge Leisure Park, Cambridge, England
WaveSerpentineThe wave is an extension of the U-Rack. Waves accommodate more bicycles than the single U-rack, but only support a bicycle frame at one point (as opposed to two points with a U-rack), resulting in a greater chance of the bicycle falling over when parked in the rack. [12]
Wave rack in New York City WTM3 NYU FC 0019.jpg
Wave rack in New York City
Double wave rack in North Aurora, Illinois White Winder Bike Rack.png
Double wave rack in North Aurora, Illinois
Bollard stylePost and ring Bollards are short vertical posts most commonly used as traffic or parking barriers. Bollard style bike racks add one or two arms to which bikes may be secured. [5] Post-and-ring racks are a North American variant on the bollard type.
Bollard-style rack in Seattle, Washington, United States Seattle - stylized bike rack.jpg
Bollard-style rack in Seattle, Washington, United States
Post-and-ring style racks in Toronto, Ontario Bike path on College in Toronto.jpeg
Post-and-ring style racks in Toronto, Ontario
Grid styleLadderThe grid consists of vertical bars that connect larger upper and lower metal tubing that accept bikes on one or both sides of the rack. Grid style racks can be left freestanding or anchored to the ground with permanent or temporary anchors. This rack does not allow both the wheel and frame of the bike to be locked, allowing for potential theft of the bicycle. [12]
Free-standing ladder rack in front of an apothecary in Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany Grune Apotheke Fahrradstander KA 2012.JPG
Free-standing ladder rack in front of an apothecary in Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Grid-style rack in Miedzno, Silesian Voivodeship, Poland Miedzno stojak na rowery 30.04.11 p.jpg
Grid-style rack in Miedźno, Silesian Voivodeship, Poland
InnovativeInnovative designs incorporate both utility and style. Many bike rack engineers have made small alterations to basic bike racks to improve functionality and appearance. [5]
An innovative type of bicycle rack in Davis, California Davis Bike Rack.jpg
An innovative type of bicycle rack in Davis, California
A spiral-shaped rack, functionally similar to a ladder rack, in Calgary, Alberta Bicycle stand.JPG
A spiral-shaped rack, functionally similar to a ladder rack, in Calgary, Alberta
DecorativeIn response to the often unique nature of commercial areas, some environments require a more decorative bike rack. For example, a public aquarium or zoo may prefer a shark shaped bike rack over a traditional style bike rack. [5]
Decorative bike rack in downtown Brooklyn, New York City Yellow bikerack Adams jeh.jpg
Decorative bike rack in downtown Brooklyn, New York City
Decorative bike rack in New York City, designed by David Byrne Girlie rack 44 in use jeh.jpg
Decorative bike rack in New York City, designed by David Byrne
Double deckTwo-tier bike racks can be used to increase bicycle storage capacity in a fixed space. In order to easily maneuver a bicycle onto the top tier, some double deck bike racks incorporate hydraulic pistons to lift the bike into the rack after the user has locked it.
Double-decker bike rack at London Waterloo station, England Bicycle rack, Waterloo stn.jpg
Double-decker bike rack at London Waterloo station, England
Double-decker bike rack at Graz Hauptbahnhof, Austria Hauptbahnhof-Graz 5982.JPG
Double-decker bike rack at Graz Hauptbahnhof, Austria

Mounts

An in-ground mount ConcordWest-BikeRack.JPG
An in-ground mount
Bicycles hanging from wall mounts Bicycle rack at TRI Translational Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland.jpg
Bicycles hanging from wall mounts

Bike racks can be mounted to a surface in a number of different ways.

Finishes

Galvanized steel bicycle rack in Vienna, Austria Bicycle rack Fahrradstander in Wien 2009 PD IMG 9201.JPG
Galvanized steel bicycle rack in Vienna, Austria
Powder-coated artistic bike rack shaped like a bicycle in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada Bicycle parking Ottawa.jpg
Powder-coated artistic bike rack shaped like a bicycle in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Commercial bike racks can be constructed with a variety of different materials. Some of the most important factors to consider when choosing a finishing material are the weather conditions the bike rack will need to endure, the overall style and look of the atmosphere, the volume of bikes the rack will be holding, and environmental issues.

Area needed

Replacing in a garage, a single car parking place, by a set of U-rack parking spots. Bicycle parking in garage.jpg
Replacing in a garage, a single car parking place, by a set of U-rack parking spots.

Bicycle parking takes up much less space than parking for cars. A typical bicycle is about 1.8 meters long, 1 meter high and 40-60 cm wide. [15] Based on an ordinary bicycle, the Stavanger municipality guide suggests the following area requirements for parking racks:

The guide indicates that a depth of 3.5 meters is needed (of which 2 m is for the bicycle and rack, and 1.5 m for access). If cargo bikes or bikes with trailers are to be able to be parked, the area must be increased. [16]

If there is very little floor space, a bicycle rack can be used where the bike is hung uphill behind the front wheels, but such racks are more cumbersome to use.

Installation

Post and ring bicycle stands in Toronto, Ontario, Canada Hto park bike racks.jpg
Post and ring bicycle stands in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Where a bike rack is installed is just as important as how safe and useful it is. The better the location, the more use the bike rack will encourage. Bike racks should be installed in an area that is highly visible to the public. By avoiding isolated areas and hidden spaces, cyclists will feel safe enough to lock their bikes there. Crowded locations will also deter bike thieves from stealing bicycles. Also, by placing bike racks in a highly visible area, the location will most likely be near common places of interest, making it more convenient for people to ride their bike to their destinations. [6]

However, while a bike rack should be implemented in a visible area, it is important that the bike rack have adequate spacing away from pedestrians and other traffic. Bike riders will need ample space to maneuver their bike around and into the rack, without hitting other parked bikes, cars, or people. It is also important to place bike racks far enough away from doorways, sidewalks, or paths where it may obstruct traffic flow. [10]

Another important factor to consider is weather protection. If bike racks are being used for long-term parking, the bike rack should be placed under some form of weather protection. This will not only help protect the bike rack from corrosion, but also encourage bike riders to store their bikes there for extended periods of time. [10]

Although the primary use for a bicycle stand is for parking, it is useful at times to use it for maintenance and adjustments. While it is difficult to spin a rear wheel while making derailleur adjustments, if a stand were high enough to support the rear of the bike by the saddle nose, then this problem could be solved. Generally speaking, stands are not high enough for this and quite often have bracings and other obstructions in their construction that would prevent such use.

Along with bike racks, often other cycle infrastructure is added to a cycle parking project. This can include bike pumps and repair stations to allow on-the-go maintenance of bicycles, and wash stations for cleaning. Some modern, large scale projects use technology such as bicycle detection systems to show users whether there is space available for their cycle, and e-bike charging stations to allow electric bike users to plug in while away from home. [17]

See also

Multi-color metal bicycle parking rack in Lysekil, Sweden Colorful metal bicycle parking rack in Lysekil 2.jpg
Multi-color metal bicycle parking rack in Lysekil, Sweden

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Stainless steel</span> Steel alloy resistant to corrosion

Stainless steel, also known as inox, corrosion-resistant steel (CRES) and rustless steel, is an alloy of iron that is resistant to rusting and corrosion. It contains at least 10.5% chromium and usually nickel, and containing 0,2-2,11% carbon, to obtain the desired properties. Stainless steel's resistance to corrosion results from the chromium, which forms a passive film that can protect the material and self-heal in the presence of oxygen.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Velomobile</span> Human-powered vehicle

A velomobile ; velomobiel, velo, or bicycle car is a human-powered vehicle (HPV) enclosed for aerodynamic advantage and/or protection from weather and collisions. Velomobiles are similar to recumbent bicycles, pedal go-karts and tricycles, but with a full fairing and are not to be confused with purpose-built mobiles for racing or speed records fully faired vehicles with two wheels, generally called streamliners. Streamliners have set many speed and distance records.

The ambiguous term bicycle rack or bike rack may refer to:

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Cargo bike</span> Human powered vehicle to carry goods

A cargo bike is a human powered vehicle designed and constructed specifically for transporting loads. Cargo bike designs include a cargo area consisting of an open or enclosed box, a flat platform, or a wire basket, usually mounted over one or both wheels, low behind the front wheel, or between parallel wheels at either the front or rear of the vehicle. The frame, drivetrain and wheels must be constructed to handle loads larger than those on an ordinary bicycle.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Touring bicycle</span> Bicycle designed or modified for touring

A touring bicycle is a bicycle designed or modified to handle bicycle touring. To make the bikes sufficiently robust, comfortable and capable of carrying heavy loads, special features may include a long wheelbase, frame materials that favor flexibility over rigidity, heavy duty wheels, and multiple mounting points.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Utility bicycle</span> Bicycle for practical use (commuting, transport)

A utility bicycle, city bicycle, urban bicycle, European city bike (ECB), Dutch bike, classic bike or simply city-bike is a bicycle designed for frequent very short, very slow rides through very flat urban areas. It is a form of utility bicycle commonly seen around the world, built to facilitate everyday short-distance riding in normal clothes in cold-to-mild weather conditions. It is therefore a bicycle designed for very short-range practical transportation, as opposed to those primarily for recreation and competition, such as touring bicycles, racing bicycles, and mountain bicycles. Utility bicycles are the most common form globally, and comprise the vast majority found in the developing world. City bikes may be individually owned or operated as part of a public bike sharing scheme.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Bollard</span> Post used for mooring, traffic etc.

A bollard is a sturdy, short, vertical post. The term originally referred to a post on a ship or quay used principally for mooring boats. It now also refers to posts installed to control road traffic and posts designed to prevent automotive vehicles from colliding or crashing into pedestrians and structures.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Bicycle lock</span>

A bicycle lock is a security device used to deter bicycle theft, either by simply locking one of the wheels or by fastening the bicycle to a fixed object, e.g., a bike rack.

The term bicycle tools usually refers to specialty tools only used on bicycles, as opposed to general purpose mechanical tools such as spanners and hex wrenches. Various bicycle tools have evolved over the years into specialized tools for working on a bicycle. Modern bicycle shops will stock a large number of tools for working on different bicycle parts. This work can be performed by a trained bicycle mechanic, or for simple tasks, by the bicycle owner.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Kickstand</span> Bicycle part

A kickstand is a device on a bicycle or motorcycle that allows the bike to be kept upright without leaning against another object or the aid of a person. A kickstand is usually a piece of metal that flips down from the frame and makes contact with the ground. It is generally located in the middle of the bike or towards the rear. Some touring bicycles have two: one at the rear, and a second in the front.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Kronan (company)</span>

Kronan bicycles are marketed by Kronan Trademark AB, also known as Kronan AB. Kronan AB was established in June 1997 by three former-students, John Wahlbäck and the Avander brothers, Henry and Martin. In autumn 2003 the company was bought by the Brunstedt family with Mary Brunstedt as the company's current CEO.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Bicycle locker</span> Locker or box that holds bicycles

A bicycle locker or bike box is a locker or box in which up to 2 bicycles can be placed and locked. They are usually provided at places where numerous cyclists need bike parking for extended times, yet where the bikes might otherwise get damaged or stolen.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Bicycle parking</span> Parking for bicycles

Bicycle parking is part of the cycling infrastructure of a populated place allowing for the storage of bicycles when they are not being used. Parking facilities for bicycles include racks, lockers, parking stations, and covered areas. Bicycle parking infrastructure, in addition to cyclists' equipment such bicycle locks, offers a degree of security and may prevent bicycle theft. Ad hoc bicycle parking alongside railings, signs, and other street furniture is a common practice and may be recognized through formal legal arrangements.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Luggage carrier</span> Device attached to a bicycle to which cargo or panniers can be attached

A luggage carrier, also commonly called a (bicycle)rack, is a device attached to a bicycle to which cargo or panniers can be attached. This is popular with utility bicycles and touring bicycles.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">McDonald's Cycle Center</span> Indoor bike station in Chicago, Illinois, USA

McDonald's Cycle Center is an indoor bike station in the northeast corner of Millennium Park in the Loop community area of Chicago, in the U.S. state of Illinois. The city of Chicago built the center at the intersection of East Randolph Street and Columbus Drive, and opened it July 2004. Since June 2006, it has been sponsored by McDonald's and several other partners, including city departments and bicycle advocacy organizations. The bike station, which serves bicycle commuters and utility cyclists, provides lockers, showers, a snack bar with outdoor summer seating, bike repair, bike rental and 300 bicycle parking spaces as of 2004. The Cycle Center is accessible by membership and day pass. It also accommodates runners and inline skaters, and provides space for a Chicago Police Department Bike Patrol Group.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Bicycle lift</span>

Bicycle lifts are powered mechanical systems for moving bicycles uphill. They are used where the steepness of a slope or other situations like subway crowds make riding uphill difficult.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Cycling infrastructure</span> Facilities for use by cyclists

Cycling infrastructure is all infrastructure cyclists are allowed to use. Bikeways include bike paths, bike lanes, cycle tracks, rail trails and, where permitted, sidewalks. Roads used by motorists are also cycling infrastructure, except where cyclists are barred such as many freeways/motorways. It includes amenities such as bike racks for parking, shelters, service centers and specialized traffic signs and signals. The more cycling infrastructure, the more people get about by bicycle.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Bicycle theft</span> Theft of bicycles or bicycle parts

Bicycle theft is the crime of stealing a bicycle. It is a common crime due to the relative ease of reselling bicycles, which have a large second-hand market. This makes the crime attractive to those needing to obtain currency quickly, such as people with substance addictions. Bicycles are also easily accessible, often being locked up outside in public places in urban areas. Despite the developed market of bicycle locks, it is estimated that millions of bicycles are stolen every year. Thieves use a variety of methods to bypass locks, including taking advantage of bicycle owners' poor locking practices. Bicycle owners can take action to reduce the chances of theft, including utilising facilities such as bicycle lockers and parking racks.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Cold-weather biking</span>

Cold-weather biking, cold-weather cycling, or winter biking is the use of a bicycle during months when roads and paths are covered with ice, slush and snow. Cold weather cyclists face a number of challenges in near or below freezing temperatures. Urban commuters on city streets may have to deal with "[s]now, slush, salt, and sand", which can cause rust and damage to metal bike components. Slush and ice can jam derailleurs. Some cyclists may bike differently in winter, by "slow[ing] down on turns and brak[ing] gradually" in icy conditions. Gaining traction on snow and ice-covered roads can be difficult. Winter cyclists may use bikes with front and rear fenders, metal studded winter tires and flashing LED lights. Winter cyclists may wear layers of warm clothes and "ea[r], face, and han[d]" coverings may be used. Specialized winter bikes called fatbikes, which have wide, oversized tires that are typically inflated with low pressure, are used in snow trail riding and winter bike competitions.

References

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