Bicycle Commuting Guide
Bike Racks
Bike Racks
Location: Choose well-frequented areas that are easily observed in several directions. Consolidate bicycle parking into one or two major areas. Racks that are scattered, remote, or hidden out back by the dumpster will greatly increase the chance of bike theft. Place racks as close to employee entrances and the shower/locker area as possible since cyclists will usually be carrying clothing and equipment with them. Make sure the area is well lit if it is likely to be used outside of daylight hours. Poorly located racks tend not to get used, as they are hard to find, inconvenient, and pose a greater danger of crime.
Protection from the elements: Bicyclists have often spent hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars on their bicycles. They will be more likely to bike commute if they know their vehicles will not be exposed to harsh sun or sudden downpours. Cover can be provided by an existing overhang or by constructing a simple shelter. If your company has its own parking ramp, consider converting a stall near the entrance to a space for multiple bikes.
Design: There are many different types of bicycle racks on the market. Some are better than others. When shopping for a bicycle rack, make sure it is durable and difficult to damage or dismember. It should support the bicycle by the frame rather than the wheel, and it should accommodate the popular U-style bike locks. Avoid picket fence-style racks. Make sure the rack is securely anchored, and placed in an area that will not get muddy.
Bicycle Parking in Madison
On March 1, 1988, the Madison Common Council passed an ordinance requiring the provision of off-street bicycle parking for new developments, expansion of existing developments, and changes in use that would require additional parking.
For expansions or changes in use, bicycle parking is required based only on the extra amount needed by the addition or
change
in use, not for the entire development. This is similar to the way in which off-street
automobile parking requirements work. In fact, the bicycle parking requirement
is included in zoning ordinance section 28.11 dealing with off-street parking
and loading facilities. The number of bicycle parking spaces required for a development is determined by the Zoning Administrator based on guidelines included in the ordinance. Bicycle parking facilities are required in all districts, including the Central Area.
The
purpose of this ordinance is to provide adequate and safe facilities for
the storage of bicycles. The size of each bicycle parking space is specified
as at least two feet wide by six feet long with an access aisle of five
feet and a vertical clearance of at least six feet. Many commonly marketed
bicycle parking racks have spaces narrower than two feet, these racks are
unacceptable. Acceptable and Unacceptable Bike Racks
Bicycle parking requirements can be fulfilled by lockers, racks or equivalent structures in or upon which the bicycle may be locked by the user. All racks must be securely anchored to the ground or building surface. Racks must be designed to accommodate U-shaped locks. These high security locks are increasingly popular due to high bicycle theft levels and the rising price of new bicycles. U-shaped locks are designed to allow the user to lock one or both wheels (if the front wheel is removed) and the bicycle frame to a stationary object. Many commonly marketed bicycle parking racks do not facilitate this type of lock, however. These racks are unacceptable. The attached Bicycle Parking Rack Selection guidelines (see below) include a list of acceptable bicycle parking racks.
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| An acceptable bicycle rack which allows to lock the bicycle to the rack. | Unacceptable bicycle rack |
Bicycle parking needs to be located in a clearly designated, safe and convenient location. A safe bicycle parking location is one in which activity around the bicycle rack is easily observable. Bike racks located in remote locations such as alleys or behind landscaping gives bike thieves time to work. A safe location also ensures adequate separation of parked bicycles from motor vehicles and pedestrians. A convenient location is close to the bicyclist's destination. Usually this will be close to a building entrance. Surfaces around bicycle parking racks must be maintained to be mud and dust free.
More Information
If you have any questions, please call either the Zoning Administrator at 266-4560, or the Pedestrian-Bicycle Coordinator at 266-6225.
In addition, two documents with very detailed information are available for download in PDF file format.
The relevant sections of Madison's zoning ordinance regarding bicycle parking
Bicycle Parking Rack Selection guidelines and recommendations
On to: Incentives…
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