Cycling is an incredible way to commute—it’s eco-friendly, cost-effective, and great for your health. But let’s be real: cycling to work isn’t always a breeze. From unpredictable UK weather to the challenge of securely storing your bike, a few hurdles can make people think twice. As we said in our previous blog – one of the ways to get employees to cycle enthusiastically to work is to include some extras—namely – end-of-trip facilities.
If you’re setting up or upgrading your bike storage area or just pondering how to create a really good one, this guide will walk you through the must-haves to make it cyclist-friendly.
Secure and Space-Saving Bike Storage
The backbone of any good cycling facility is secure bike storage. This is where it all starts—accessible, easy-to-use bike racks that are safe and protect bikes from weather and theft. Would any bike racks do? If you want to provide the best experience and step up your game, you should go for two-tier bike racks. Why? They double your storage capacity without needing extra space, making them a lifesaver for offices, apartments, and public spaces.
Two-tier racks deserve a special shout-out because they address one of the biggest pain points for cycling facilities: space. They’re ideal for urban settings where every square metre counts. Plus, they look sleek and professional, making your facility visually appealing and functional.
Two-tier racks aren’t just practical; they’re also designed to be user-friendly and high security. They come with gas-assisted lifting mechanisms, making loading your bike onto the upper tier easy, and if you add weatherproof shelters, you have a winning combination that protects bikes from rain and theft while looking neat and professional. Two-tier bike racks also offer users maximum safe parking as both wheen and frame can be chained and the bicycle is held stable in the wheel channels with locking bars for additional security.
Combining two-tier bike racks with thoughtful amenities creates an environment that supports cycling in every way. And trust us—your employees, tenants, or customers will notice and appreciate the effort.
Showers, Lockers, and Changing Rooms
No one wants to spend the day at their desk feeling sticky after cycling to work. Indeed, in surveys, people do cite the lack of showers and changing rooms as an issue. Offering showers and changing rooms transforms the cycling experience. It gives people comfort and makes it clear you really mean to be a bike-friendly employer.
For a top-notch setup, we would advise including private showers, which help employees freshen up after their ride, and a changing area where people can swap their cycling outfit for a more professional one for the workday ahead. To make the experience even more complete, add some individual lockers—ideally ventilated and lockable—to store clothes, gear, and personal items and keep the area organised and tidy.
Cyclists with access to these facilities are far more likely to stick with their bike commute—even in unpredictable weather.
Drying Facilities
The wet kit is a reality for UK cyclists. No one enjoys lugging soggy gear to their desk, especially in the more rainy parts of the year. Once you have committed to a space to serve as an end-of-trip facilities area, you need to think about adding drying areas, towel racks, or even heated or ventilated lockers, as mentioned above, that can make a massive difference. These amenities provide a sense of relief and comfort, making the cycling experience more enjoyable and less stressful.
These small touches show that you understand and value cyclists’ needs, encouraging more people to swap four wheels for two.
On-Site Bike Repair Stations
Picture this: you arrive at work having biked from home, only to realise your tyre is flat or your chain needs adjusting. But you don’t have any tools or a pump with you, so now you start worrying about how you will get home. Frustrating, right? A self-service bike repair station stocked with basic tools and a pump can save the day. It’s a small investment with big returns—keeping cyclists rolling and smiling.
Safety and Security
A secure bike area is about more than just sturdy racks. For cyclists to feel like it is a safe space they can use without worry, it is worth considering adding extra layers of protection. You can start with excellent lighting – bright, well-lit spaces make a world of difference in security and comfort. Another great addition for everyone’s peace of mind is CCTV cameras, which do wonders to deter theft and vandalism and make users feel safe and that nothing bad will happen, but also that if it does, there is a recording to fall back on. Lastly, consider controlling access to the area. This may or may not be possible or a sensible idea depending on location, use and so on, but it would make it extra safe if there are key cards or codes to ensure only authorised people can enter the bike storage area.
Investing in these features shows you take safety seriously, which builds trust and confidence among cyclists.
Extras
Your bike storage area can also double as a hub for cycling-related news and activities. Add a noticeboard or digital screen to share things like upcoming cycling events or challenges, updates about bike-to-work schemes and tips for safe cycling and route planning. This simple touch helps create a sense of community, keeping cycling at the top of your team’s mind and making them feel connected and engaged.
If you really want to wow cyclists, consider adding premium features like towel service to save cyclists the hassle of bringing their own. Charging stations are always an appreciated and cool addition to any space. These extras provide convenience and comfort, making cyclists feel catered to and valued.
Provided you have the square footage, you can also add a seating area where cyclists can relax or connect with colleagues. These extras can turn a practical bike storage area into a place people actually enjoy using—a surefire way to boost cycling rates.
Creating a cyclist-friendly space is more than installing a few bike racks. It’s about understanding cyclists’ needs and making their experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. From two-tier bike racks to showers, lockers, and repair stations, every detail matters.
By investing in these amenities, you’re not only supporting sustainable commuting but also fostering a healthier, happier community. So, whether you’re designing a workplace, residential complex, or public facility, think like a cyclist and go the extra mile.
