Bicycle parking needs to be visible, accessible, easy to use, convenient, and plentiful. Racks need to support the whole bike (not just one wheel) and enable the user to lock the frame and wheels of the bike with a cable or U-shaped lock. Parking should preferably be covered, well lit, and in plain view without being in the way of pedestrians or motor vehicles. And if any of these criteria aren’t met, there’s a good chance cyclists won’t use what is provided and will park wherever they think their bike will be safe.

The International Bicycle Fund has created a two-page fact sheet on bicycle parking criteria that discusses these many factors in more detail and further advice on planning for bicycle parking can be found related specifically to shopping , or commuting . Many agencies work closely with their local bicycle user groups to identify potential high-demand locations, either through postcard and e-mail request forms or more formal consultative procedures.