As we’re seeing an increase in the number of cycle paths; more and more people are opting for two-wheeled transportation due to its health and monetary benefits. With all these people heading for a greener lifestyle we take a look at how to find the best type of cycle storage for your workplace.
How Can I Determine What My Workplace Needs?
You want a form of cycle storage for your premises but don’t know where to start? One of the main points to c
onsider is who you’re appealing to. For instance, a shopping centre or supermarket will be looking for a more stylish and secure form of cycle storage. Compare this to an office or warehouse which will accommodate any cyclists within your workplace. It’s important to understand the needs, requirements and demands of your specific premises.
Office buildings and warehouses, i.e. industrial premises are mostly private. This means the likelihood of visitors is kept to a minimum. When you compare this to retail outlets or even parks and other public areas; it’s their duty to attract visitors and get as many people to turn out, therefore you essentially have to accommodate the audience you have. If there are only 10 employees in your office and two of them ride a bike to work, it would likely be unnecessary to opt for a fashionable 12 bike stand which won’t meet full capacity, and will rarely be seen. It’s somewhat a bit of balancing act.
If you have no cycle storage system in place and do have a large amount of employees, it might be an idea to conduct a survey. Ask who rides to work: Where do they put their bike and what sort of rack/stand would they think is suitable? This not only gives insight into what your employees want (which increases work morale) but it also ensures the company aren’t shelling out a lot of cash on a form of storage which will rarely be used.
Next Up: Do I Need A Shelter?
Now, you can have a bike rack without a shelter but you can’t have a shelter without a bike rack. Well, you can but it would be pointless as you would just have to lean the bicycle(s) up against the side. A cycle shelter is more of a precaution. As weather is often unpredictable employees may ride to work on a blue-skied day only to be greeted by a soaking wet bike when they leave for the day. It’s not just rain you have to be wary of, the sun can also do damage…All in the name of UV rays which can lead to discolouration when a bike is exposed. A shelter is essentially a garage for bikes in that it offers an extra level of security and protection – some are even lockable!
Bike racks differ greatly in both design and capacity so it’s up to you to find the kind most appropriate.
For example…
– An office with one bike owner would best suit a Sheffield Cycle Stand
– A school or park might better suit a Hi-Hoop Bicycle Rack
Explore our entire cycle range including bike shelters. Don’t hesitate to get in contact with us if you would like advice and/or products information.
