How can you design roads to better accommodate cyclists?

Cycling is a healthy, eco-friendly, and fun way to travel, but it can also be risky if the roads are not designed to accommodate cyclists. Many cities and towns are trying to improve their cycling infrastructure and promote bike-friendly policies, but what are some of the key factors to consider when designing roads for cyclists? In this article, we will explore some of the best practices and principles of road safety engineering for cycling, and how you can apply them to your own transportation planning projects.

1 Road space allocation

One of the most important aspects of designing roads for cyclists is how much space is allocated for them. Ideally, cyclists should have their own dedicated lanes or paths that are separated from motorized traffic by physical barriers, such as curbs, bollards, or planters. This reduces the risk of collisions, increases the visibility and comfort of cyclists, and encourages more people to bike. However, if dedicated lanes are not feasible, then shared lanes or wide shoulders can also be used, as long as they are clearly marked with signs and pavement markings, and have enough width and clearance for cyclists to maneuver safely.

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Lahcen Errami

MTB Morocco owner
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Designing roads to better accommodate cyclists involves considering various factors to enhance safety, accessibility, and comfort for cyclists. Here are several key strategies: Bike Lanes: Design dedicated bike lanes separated from motorized traffic by physical barriers or painted buffers. Ensure that bike lanes are wide enough to comfortably accommodate cyclists, and consider protected intersections to enhance safety. Protected Bike Paths: Implement physically separated bike paths, especially in areas with high traffic or where cycling infrastructure needs to be distinct from vehicular traffic. Use barriers such as curbs, bollards, or planters to provide a clear separation between bike paths and roadways.

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2 Road surface quality

Another factor that affects the safety and comfort of cyclists is the quality of the road surface. Cyclists are more sensitive to bumps, cracks, potholes, and debris than motorists, and these can cause damage to their bikes or injuries to themselves. Therefore, it is essential to maintain the road surface in good condition, especially in the areas where cyclists ride. This means repairing any defects, sweeping away any litter or gravel, and applying anti-skid materials or coatings to prevent slipping or skidding. Additionally, the road surface should be smooth and consistent, without any abrupt changes in level, slope, or texture.

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Lahcen Errami

MTB Morocco owner
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Designing Roads for Cyclists: Prioritizing Safety and Accessibility Creating cyclist-friendly roads involves strategic planning. Implement dedicated bike lanes, physically separated or painted, for safe cycling. Protected bike paths with barriers enhance safety in high-traffic areas. Intersection design should prioritize cyclist safety with dedicated signal phases. Shared road spaces and sharrows promote coexistence between cyclists and motorists. Ensure smooth pavement, conduct regular maintenance, and prioritize clear signage. Integrate bike parking at key destinations and facilitate convenient, secure options. Seamlessly integrate cycling routes with public transit for a comprehensive transportation network.

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3 Road geometry and design

The geometry and design of the road can influence how cyclists interact with other road users and the environment. For instance, the width, curvature, and alignment of the road can affect the speed and visibility of cyclists and motorists, which can create potential conflicts or crashes. Furthermore, the location and design of intersections, roundabouts, and traffic signals can determine how cyclists cross or turn and how they communicate with other road users. To ensure roads are safe and convenient for cyclists, it is important to adhere to some basic principles. These include minimizing the number and complexity of intersections and conflict points; providing adequate sight distance and lighting; utilizing traffic calming measures to decrease motorized traffic speed and volume; providing clear and consistent signage and pavement markings for cyclists and motorists; as well as incorporating bike-friendly features, such as bike boxes, bike signals, or bike ramps.

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4 Road user behavior and education

Finally, the behavior and education of road users play a crucial role in the safety and efficiency of cycling. Cyclists and motorists should understand and respect the rules of the road, as well as be aware of potential hazards and challenges that cyclists face. To foster a culture of road user awareness and education, it is helpful to provide training and information for cyclists and motorists on how to ride or drive safely and courteously. Laws and regulations should be enforced to protect the rights and responsibilities of cyclists and motorists. The benefits of cycling for health, environment, and economy should be promoted, as well as the participation and feedback of cyclists and other stakeholders in the planning and design of cycling infrastructure and policies.

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5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How can you design roads to better accommodate cyclists?

1

2

3

4

5

1 Road space allocation

2 Road surface quality

3 Road geometry and design

4 Road user behavior and education

5 Here’s what else to consider

Transportation Planning

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How can you design roads to better accommodate cyclists?

1

2

3

4

5

1 Road space allocation

2 Road surface quality

3 Road geometry and design

4 Road user behavior and education

5 Here’s what else to consider

Transportation Planning

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