Choosing the Best Bike Rack

When it comes to bike parking, not all racks are created equal. There are several qualities that make some racks stand above the rest.

In this guide, you’ll learn what features to look out for when selecting commercial bike racks, so you can choose the one that best suits your unique needs.

The Importance of Good Bike Parking

With proper bike parking, you’ll draw in more cyclists and enhance the overall bike-friendliness of your community, promoting healthier, active, more connected, and more sustainable lifestyles.

Bike Parking Dock
Bike Parking Dock

What to Look for

Supports bike upright without putting stress on wheels

It’s important that your bike rack provides two points of contact with the frame
of the bike – or both the wheel and frame of the bike – in order to prevent the
bike from falling over.

Allows locking of frame and at least one wheel with a U-lock

A closed loop of the rack should allow a single U-lock to secure one wheel and section of the bike frame. If only the wheel is locked, bike thieves may remove the wheel and steal the bike.

Rack use is intuitive

First time users should be able to recognize the rack and use it as intended without the need for instructions.

Resists cutting, bending, or deformation

The bike rack should be resistant to cutting, bending or deformation by common tools such as pipe cutters, pry bars, and wrenches. The greater the diameter of tubing, the harder it will be to bend or cut.

Additional Details to Consider

Appearance

The material and finish of the bike can help enhance the aesthetics of a space.

One common choice is galvanized steel, which has a dull, silver color and slight texture. It is the most durable and maintenance-free option.

Stainless steel has a chrome look and a higher resistance than galvanized steel but requires more upkeep and is the most expensive finish option.

If you want to add a pop of color, you can choose from different powder coat finishes that provide an added level of protection from the elements.

Accessibility and Usability

If the bike racks aren’t properly spaced and/or don’t meet the specified criteria, bikers may secure their bikes in unintended ways and bikes may be damaged or bikers injured.