100%! Back when I started my job in downtown Philly, the first thing I did was ask the front desk lady of office building if tenants were allowed to use the freight elevator to bring their bikes in. Thankfully we were and I commuted in from the suburbs every day all year round. It's wonderful. No way would I bike commute if it meant I had to leave my bike locked down at the street. I've learned my lesson. But before the pandemic they built a separate bike storage room within the building 1st floor and a lot more people started to bike commute. Bldg mgmt said they were getting so many requests from prospective tech industry tenants that they had to start offering that amenity.
@victorquesada7530
2 жыл бұрын
Cool man, glad to hear it!
@rockfire1669
Жыл бұрын
Wait a min I am starting to get a Indira here
@davidmordaunt4334
3 жыл бұрын
Fully agree, secure bike parking would increase daily cycling - I have had 7 bikes stolen when I lived in the UK, Germany, and in California.
@user-of2od5zd8e
Жыл бұрын
Wow that's so much stolen bikes, here in Latinoamérica we are robbed so much as well but now we have the possibility to get a secure that covers almost all the situations and they even provide you a new bike , its a little expensive but I think that it's a good alternative. Sorry for my bad English, and the comment 1 year after. Lol
@stevecarter8810
Жыл бұрын
I only had one bike stolen in the UK, it was bright yellow, not locked, and I was 13. Now I ride dull bikes and park them amongst other bikes, no further issues in 38 years
@michaelsprinzeles4022
3 жыл бұрын
Definitely the biggest obstacle to using bikes or e-bikes in NYC. I grew up in Manhattan so a bike was easier & faster than the MTA or a car plus I could be independent prior to getting my license but "parking" it safely was a huge PITA! I was cycling in & out of Manhattan on a bike since the 70's and would love to use my e-bike instead of a car (more often) now if only there were more safe places to lock it:(
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
It’s a real shame. But the first step to solving a problem is acknowledging it exists. I think it’s becoming more and more clear. Fortunately we also have a larger contingency fighting for this these days.
@macharlem
3 жыл бұрын
When I 1st moved to NYC I biked everywhere but when my 3rd locked up bike was stolen in the first 2 years I gave up. 18 years later this current situation has inspired me to return to biking and I love it! Not being able to lock it up is def limiting me. Thanks for bring attention to this problem with solutions
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing this experience. I’m sorry that you had to go through that. I hope you can come back to biking
@PRH123
7 ай бұрын
Have you considered a Brompton...? You can take it inside with you....
@briantlougan810
3 жыл бұрын
I live in a low crime area...except for bicycle theft. One year my wife bought me a cool bike. Within 6 weeks it was stolen. That was more than 20 years ago. That ended my bicycling hobby for a long time. Now I'm considering buying a light weight, foldable, bike. Which will either be inside my home or never out of my sight. I'm guessing bicycle theft is a huge deterrent to bicycling. It certainly worked for me.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for taking your time to share your experience. I hope you do get back to biking again.
@wimahlers
3 жыл бұрын
Following is a lot of detaiiled information. Don't let it scare you of. Brompton folding bicycles are expensive. More expensive than many other folding bicycles. However, the quality of Brompton bicycles outshines most, if not all, other folding bicycles. See, among others: www.brompton.com/bikes (manufacturer price listings in pounds sterling) kzitem.info/news/bejne/t2yY06mAcmqLlm0 A detailed personal review. If you decide to buy a Brompton bicycle then you can increase your joy, value and practicability by buying a purposely developed Brompton trailer. Also expensive, I cannot change that. There are many trailers. But this is the one trailer that you can carry on your back or carry your bicycle in the bag or carry luggage in the bag. See, among others: kzitem.info/news/bejne/p6ZsuaibsX2geIY Travelling by plane (or bus or train or ferry or taxi or walking or ... whatever transporting mode) As you can see, an easy ready-set-go solution. For (among others) city-shopping usage you can also carry the bicycle. See: kzitem.info/news/bejne/1GiltHt_bYJ3fWk No need to ever be separated from your expensive Brompton. No need for a bicycle lock. Manufacturer and manufacturer price (in euros in he Netherlands): www.radicaldesign.com/cyclone-iv-chubby As you can read, this trailer is specifically designed for the Brompton folding bicycle (also available for some other brands). Brompton is a city bicycle. But you can also take it for a long holliday in (for instance) hilly France. See: kzitem.info/news/bejne/lGOLk218soSHpG0 And don't let the Brompton bicycle fool you. Brompton bicycles are surprsingly nimble and fast. See: kzitem.info/news/bejne/smyizaehjpuGeno kzitem.info/news/bejne/mK6X3Gp_g2aFg2U Of course, it also depends on the condition of the cyclist. As you may have noticed I am a fan of Brompton. I am Dutch. I own 5 bicycles. I do not own a Brompton bicycle. Nor do I get paid advertising or promoting one. I just recognize the quality and usefulness from my personal Dutch perspective. As to the trailer ... Nor do I have any affiliation with "radicaldesign". My nearest Brompton shop/dealer (is 18 kilometers away): czwaan.nl/brompton
@weareallbeingwatched4602
3 жыл бұрын
You really need to use the right lock. The oxford ones designed for motorbikes with the chain links are ideal.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much for sharing!
@Unitedflyier
3 жыл бұрын
Sad but true. I’m just about to take delivery of an expensive ebike. Now I will spend a lot of time worrying if it will get stolen. Can’t take it too far in case I need to stop and use the bathroom. Would love to use it to pop into the grocery store instead of using a car. But will it be there when I come out 🤔🤔
@Digital.Done.Right.
3 жыл бұрын
GO GO GO! This subject is so important even here in "Old Europe". Now with the acceptance of "expensive" E-Bikes the "where do I trust parking it" is a #1 topic.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks! We totally agree with you!
@stevezodiac491
3 жыл бұрын
Answer, -Brompton.
@leojonkers3181
3 жыл бұрын
A very expensive bicycle is not the way to park in a big city. Buy 2 bicycles, one you like very much and is expensive, buy a cheap one if you you have to park in dangerours places. In my country there are more bicycles then people. Why? I do not want to say to Chris, who sell those expensive bikes, you are wrong, in conterary.
@allenschmitz9644
3 жыл бұрын
@@leojonkers3181 old thinking..my e-bike go's where I go..or not, back up bikes are for flats when you dont have time to fix them.
@leojonkers3181
3 жыл бұрын
@@allenschmitz9644 Oke, park your expensive e-bicycle in front of the cinema when you go there at night without any way to park it in a secure place. Much fun.
@MrKeyboardCommando
3 жыл бұрын
Chris, this is the most important video you've produced. For people, especially in the urban/suburban environment, to give up their car and adopt environmentally friendly modes of transport, it is vital to provide a fully integrated transport system. For example, one bikes to the railway station, leaves the bike in secure parking which has facilities to recharge batteries, and takes the train to the city. Arriving in the city, the station is actually a transport hub, providing bus services, bike hire, metro links etc. And, most importantly, the city centre is a traffic free zone, dedicated to pedestrians, bikes and electric delivery vehicles. One pays for use of the public transport system by way of a monthly, or annual, subscription, or even a deduction from your wages. If you live in the city, secure bike parking, with charging facilities, will be available in what were previously car parks. The onus for prevention of bike theft will be placed with the bike manufacturers. For electric bikes not to have disabling features by the press of a button on a key fob is ridiculous. The electric motor could be disabled, the hubs could be locked, the peddles could be locked. Alternatively, a bright bike seller could offer this service as an aftermarket service.👍👍👍 All of the above is instigated by the government, and done on a national level. To work, the whole network has to be nationwide, fully integrated and financed by the government. It's got to be from the top down, it'll never work, piecemeal, from the bottom up. Reduction of crime in the inner-city is the only way to prevent theft, and it's a massive problem brought about by social, economic and racial inequality. Again, it's got to be tackled from the top down. In the USA, you've now got a chance to do that. Sorry for my protracted ramblings. Thank you for a great video, I loved the peace sign, and, as always, I eagerly await the next instalment in this gripping exposé of the life and times of an electric bike pedlar. 😜😜😜
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Your comments always make me smile and it’s nice to know other people get where I’m coming from. Thank you so very much for your support and enriching comments. They really do motivate me!
@allenschmitz9644
3 жыл бұрын
ownership of a item is not the new paradigm..and what do renters care for an item..none.
@MrKeyboardCommando
3 жыл бұрын
@@allenschmitz9644 I'll admit I don't understand your comment, assuming, of course, it's supposed to have a meaning. Furthermore, I am, by nature, extremely distrustful of individuals who use words like paradigm, plus, I find it reprehensible that a person, apparently, can place the whole of humanity into one category. Therefore, I'm afraid I must accuse you of balderdash. I'm sorry, but that's just the way it is.
@MrKeyboardCommando
3 жыл бұрын
@@Propelbikes Chris, I do know where you're coming from, and I greatly admire where you're trying to get to. 👍👍👍
@allenschmitz9644
3 жыл бұрын
@@MrKeyboardCommando Propaganda in New Speak is balderdash for the bold.
@lindatisue733
3 жыл бұрын
In Sweden, the saying is " spend as much on your lock as you pay for your bike" If a supermarket doesn't have bike parking, I don't shop there.
@dudeonbike800
3 жыл бұрын
How quaint! I spent $250 on the Altor SAF lock. Problem is, it still costs less than just my rear wheel! And it's about 1/20 the cost of my bike, so there really isn't a lock that costs as much as many bikes. The most expensive security device I know of (that isn't an electronic locker) is the Allmax 25mm thick link and Squire SS 100CS padlock. The two cost $750 and weigh 55 pounds! That's about the biggest, baddest and most expensive bicycle locking option that I'm aware of. But that's still nowhere NEAR today's six, eight, ten, twelve thousand dollar bikes. Heck, the "Founder's Edition" specialized S-Works full suspension e-bike is $17,000! SEVENTEEN THOUSAND DOLLARS! Insane.
@Woppettier
3 жыл бұрын
Just take it inside
@lindatisue733
3 жыл бұрын
@@Woppettier I do, but using for transportation I have to leave it parked sometimes. Even leaving it parked an hour or two,I have had my saddle, handgrips, and rear wheel stolen, and my bikes are less than $1000 new.
@Woppettier
3 жыл бұрын
@@lindatisue733 Thats insane, who would even steal handgrips, must be a very high risk area if it's all in the same spot, might be worth it to demand camera security there. Note that there are some replacement bolts for your saddle and wheels that are different from standard ones, could repel the opportunistic thief..
@Unitedflyier
3 жыл бұрын
Do you think employers should be encouraged to provide secure parking for employees? Fewer people want to sit on a crowded bus or train because of COVID19. It shouldn’t take much space for a small business
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
I think this would be ideal. I think we will start to see it more and more in the future. As mentioned below some cities are now requiring it.
@milesmccall2301
3 жыл бұрын
'Encouraged' how?
@maxnewts
3 жыл бұрын
@@milesmccall2301 maybe by being given a smaller parking charge if they give their previously temporary parking spaces to the public for use in a locked container or suchlike
@milesmccall2301
3 жыл бұрын
@@maxnewts Wait, when did we go from 'providing' to 'giving'? You could maybe incentivise something like this with a tax break, but I don't think it's realistic/reasonable for a company to give away their land.
@dudeonbike800
3 жыл бұрын
Absolutely. Most current building codes require a minimum number of vehicle parking spaces. Time to switch that to secure bicycle parking spots instead. Plus, "free parking" is nothing of the sort. It's just another cost foisted upon society that the auto industry enjoys. We fight wars for cars. We ripped out our public transit for cars. Time to reverse the trend. And no, you're not a saint in that electric car. It's still got a huge carbon footprint, contributes to gridlock traffic, sheds tire rubber into the environment and really doesn't provide the best solution. Still morAns in single-occupant vehicles will abound, filling our freeways and cities with mindless drones behind the wheel.
@mariner7853
3 жыл бұрын
Lincoln (UK) has at least two "secure" controlled entry bike parking areas. I use the one next to the railway station. Access is by using a "fob" which activates the electronic door lock. I use a gold standard U lock when parked in the bike park. Good on you Chris bringing up this topic !
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Awesome! I hope we see more of these here in the states soon. They can be very helpful in increasing the possibilities of what we can do by bike.
@timshort9692
3 жыл бұрын
Very well done, Chris. I would definitely like to see more discussion on this issue. I live in Toronto and bike-thefts in our city are off of the chart; they have been for years. I just actually forwarded your video to Toronto's City Mayor, John Tory. I'm hoping it will create a response. The City staff have recently become more interested in encouraging more bike commuting. Thank you, Tim.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Great idea about forwarding to your mayor. I’m going to try and think about prompting people to do that in the future. Thanks again for the support!
@DavidRyan.
3 жыл бұрын
With a folding bike like a Brompton you can just carry it with you.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
This is a great solution for many scenarios
@2120musiclover
3 жыл бұрын
Too slow tho
@dudeonbike800
3 жыл бұрын
Still have to leave it somewhere. Bike theft is EPIDEMIC right now. Garages, sheds, storage rooms, apartments, houses, you name it are being burglarized and bikes stolen. A friend's secure storage room was broken open, then his $80 security chain quickly cut and his $5k full suspension bike stolen. One story of millions. And please don't utter "My bike's too nice to lock!" baloney. I hear this ALL the time from elitist cyclists who feel their bike is "above" utilitarian uses and therefore a bicycle lock. This is the person who comes home to their $12k carbon dream bike GONE! Bye, bye baby! Own a bike you want to keep? LOCK it all the time. 20 years in the bike industry has taught me to ALWAYS lock your bike WHEREVER you leave it. All my bikes are locked in my garage, which is double-locked and well lit. The only thing I need to add is a motion-sensor camera & alarm to alert me to a break-in.
@theboulevardierofbroadway4659
3 жыл бұрын
That's how I roll. After one too many vandalism episodes (pieces missing, stolen wheel, stolen quick release, sliced tires, etc.), I bought my Brompton in 2010. I normally don't even carry a lock with me.
@anemoneyas
3 жыл бұрын
Why is it so hard for governments in the US to spend taxpayer money on things that benefit taxpayers?
@MrKeyboardCommando
3 жыл бұрын
That's an excellent question. Has anybody got an excellent answer⁉️
@wkaemena
3 жыл бұрын
@@MrKeyboardCommando automotive lobby....
@MrKeyboardCommando
3 жыл бұрын
@@wkaemena And let us not forget the petrochemical lobby. The venality of politicians is sickening.
@HarryLovesRuth
3 жыл бұрын
Squeaky Wheel syndrome + inertia. The loudest citizens are the citizens who go to public meetings (virtually is possible now,) pester their local and state representatives, and generally make themselves difficult to ignore. If my memory serves, Chris and the advocacy with which he was involved are a big reason why e-books are even legal in New York.
@MrKeyboardCommando
3 жыл бұрын
@@HarryLovesRuth I agree. Chris is definitely a front runner, and is doing a wonderful job. I have great admiration for the guy. However, if you're going to push for policies which benefit the whole of US society, you've got to have government support. You now have a chance for this to happen, but it's going to be a hard row to hoe. I wish you the best of luck.
@d-entrecasteaux
3 жыл бұрын
I visited NYC way back in 2005. Rode the streets for a couple of days. I used my Birdy folding bike. Once folded it slips into a purpose made backpack which meant I could store my bike in my hotel room and get it easily on and off public transport. I agree more secure bike parking should be addressed.
@LucidDreamer54321
3 жыл бұрын
When I was living in Japan, I saw bikes everywhere - including huge numbers of them at train stations. And NONE of the bikes were ever locked. I shopped in various stores including bike shops while I was there, and I never saw a bike lock for sale.
@catsbyondrepair
3 жыл бұрын
All bikes are registered in Japan so nobody steals them and you have to have a bicycle licence.
@LucidDreamer54321
3 жыл бұрын
@YUKI JINJUJI Registration is voluntary. There is no penalty for not registering a bicycle and not everyone does it. Also, there is no bicycle license.
@Mantis858585
2 жыл бұрын
Japan doesn't have a huge number of immigrants, which makes a high trust society function.
@victorquesada7530
2 жыл бұрын
@@Mantis858585 Social norms are a big deal. I wouldn't lay the blame on immigration, personally. In a small town or school where everyone knows everyone a stolen bicycle would stand out, regardless of country of origin, race, creed, etc.
@Mantis858585
2 жыл бұрын
@@victorquesada7530 you just described a small high trust situation. Most European people live in bigger multicultural cities with low trust and high incidence of crime. Of course I can't remember any European ever voting for this... :(
@stevezodiac491
3 жыл бұрын
I have many bikes but the bike i use in the town is a Brompton. With a Brompton you don't need a place to put your bike, just fold it up and carry it, job done.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
This is a great approach, but unfortunately not everyone is in the position to have bikes for different purposes.
@ajaxsf
3 жыл бұрын
When I was 10 years old in NYC, some adult guy pushed me off my bike and stole it. I hope that guy burns in hell. And building parking is no guarantee. My girlfriend lives in a high rise and her bike was stolen from the bike parking inside the secured garage. It was well locked up too.
@AWriterWandering
3 жыл бұрын
Yeah, a couple of thieves actually entered my apartment complex garage once. The security photo that the landlord posted showed them carrying massive bolt cutters.
@Dark__Thoughts
3 жыл бұрын
"It was well locked up too." Was it though? The majority of bikes that I see are jokingly secured. Cable locks, folding locks, locks with a numeral code, thin chain locks, cheap U locks, etc. It's clear that the majority of people have no idea on how to securely lock their bikes.
@Unitedflyier
3 жыл бұрын
Secure parking is a huge problem. Ebikes and even traditional bikes can cost over $10k. I stopped riding years ago because of constant cat calls and harassment from mainly pickup drivers. Just wasn’t safe unless riding with a man.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
I’m really sorry you had this experience. I think this is a bigger issue than bike parking and I hope it gets better.
@recyclespinning9839
3 жыл бұрын
Really sorry to hear that.
@michalwiktorow2188
3 жыл бұрын
Nothing as this happens in EU, even ppl are traveling alone and 'bikepaking' ... I would say 'America was great... long time ago'.
@markr6962
3 жыл бұрын
Sorry to hear about this!
@Unitedflyier
3 жыл бұрын
@@michalwiktorow2188 kzitem.info/news/bejne/yGqLnIOtiYuFoWk. Yes it happens in Europe.
@Froboymike
3 жыл бұрын
This is a great topic, definitely a key element in encouraging more active transportation! I have to say I am a planner in a more suburban city in Utah, but we have bike parking requirements based on short or long term bike parking. Places like office buildings and schools with a longer term need for bike parking are required by our Code to include indoor secure bike parking. Places like retail or a post office where parking needs are more short term, they are just required to provide an outdoor rack that is securely mounted. We have some bike theft, but places like New York and LA are definitely a whole different ball game! Great videos by the way 😃
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Wow! I love that you guys are doing this in Utah! Thanks a bunch for sharing this. I sincerely hope this becomes a bigger trend across the country.
@Froboymike
3 жыл бұрын
@@Propelbikes I hope so too! I think it will take some time as planning for bikes is a learning process, but just as more and more cities are working to implement better bike infrastructure, they will hopefully catch onto the bike parking issues too.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
I’m grateful that their are more and more examples for others cities to plan from and the more that these cities become close to home the more influence they will have. It’s my hope these videos will help educate more people on these topics so we can learn from eachotherZ
@timdowney6721
3 жыл бұрын
A security camera aimed at the bike racks, or a couple for different angles and better identification of thieves, would help.
@nachonious
3 жыл бұрын
There is no public interest in NYC on bike parking. Example: try to find a simple bike rack around the new Penn Station Moynihan Hall. Billions invested in the building and no place to lock a bike in the street
@SwiftySanders
3 жыл бұрын
I'm from NYC and there is interest among me and my friends. My friends said it was the reason they don't bike as much as they would like to.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
I think the public is interested I think it’s just a matter of the public speaking up on these topics
@Mclovinthedank
3 жыл бұрын
I don't ever park my bike without a friend watching it. Ppl suck.
@rifleman42051
3 жыл бұрын
I own a e Bike and I don't ride often due to the risk of it being stolen (I ride it on the local mtn bike trails and around my neighborhood)! Otherwise I would ride it more often and it would replace my vehicle. We do have Bike lockers near Train stations but they charge like 2 dollars for a day. I'm thinking about getting a cheap beat up bike to replace my car around my city so if it does get stolen I don't stress out over it. It would be nice to see a local bike parking site with security. They should also make stealing bikes like stealing a Car make criminals think twice about stealing a bike.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
It’s pretty wild how many people share similar stories. I hope that cities and other municipalities look at this video and the comments. Maybe you can share it with your cities transportation planning department.
@Inkling777
3 жыл бұрын
Good points all! When I worked at a children's hospital, it provided bikers with a locked, fenced-in, and security-camera-covered area where we could store our bikes. And when I was doing research at a university I found a covered area at the library where there were bike racks. I made sure my bike wasn't taken by getting a thick chain and lock to loop through everything and leaving them there permanently. The key doesn't lie in making it impossible to steal your bike, merely harder to steal than the others around. Oh, and perhaps have a commuter bike that looks so beat-up no one wants to steal it.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
These are all great strategies to use!
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing
@ericsens4355
3 жыл бұрын
From NL, I have an expensive e-bike, my insurance company issued an IoT tag to the bike. A little sticker does remind "future" owners, this bike is easy to trace. With a good chain lock this works like a champ, even in Amsterdam.....
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
If theft was taken more seriously this could also be helpful here. I do think this is the idea security setup though.
@jarikinnunen1718
3 жыл бұрын
Best bike lock is take part of its frame off. It is impossible to use without it. When removable part is sized to only that bike, is no easy way to replace it.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Removing parts is definitely a good strategy. On an eBike we often recommend removing the display and in some scenarios the battery.
@sigurjonor4817
Жыл бұрын
It's kinda crazy that in a lot of places, when buildings are being built, they are required to put a certain amount of car parking and no other consideration is given for any other forms of transport. It is good to hear that nyc is requiring bike parking on new developments!
@jimquinn799
3 жыл бұрын
Why I purchased an Apartment Ebike. Light, foldable and I don't need to leave it. Say I grocery shop. I fold it up and put it in or under the shopping cart. It comes with me into my apartment.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Definitely a good way to go for some.
@allenschmitz9644
3 жыл бұрын
@@Propelbikes this is my whole point now..I tell people now dont even buy a e-bike if you dont own a garage...save yourself the grief of having your bike looted/stolen..etc. e-bikes are a big investment...a learning curve if you will of behavior modifacation..where it's safe to go and not..common sence knowledge.
@tomons8059
3 жыл бұрын
May I know your bike's brand and model number? I'm planning to.buy an e-bike but I live in the 2nd floor of the building and I'd like something lightweight to carry up to the second floor with narrow stairway.
@jimquinn799
3 жыл бұрын
Mine is a Swagtron EB5 Pro Plus. It's basic but study. There's also the Qualisport Nemo more expensive but lighter still. Then there The One bike recently crowd funded and still a little bit more expensive.There are still others due to be released soon to instead of metal be carbon fiber.
@tomherron4334
3 жыл бұрын
When I was in Europe a year and a half ago it was amazing to see the masses of bikes parked in the cities. They definitely didn’t need to have the security level required here in America. I agree that the secure bike parking facility is a good option for urban areas. I would also like to see a concerted effort into creating a better, more secure bike rack for cities, maybe some sort of cage that is able to secure the frame and wheels with the cyclist providing a standardized disc or puck lock that would be resistant to brute force attacks.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
I totally agree Tom! 🙏
@victorquesada7530
2 жыл бұрын
One Idea as well, if there are a lot of bikes, then you might end up with a sort of predator satiation effect. Only the most valuable bikes get stolen / targeted / overly protected because everyone already has an omafiets and they aren't worth anything of value to anyone (around 300Euros ($400USD) for a new one isn't worth the criminal consequences to an Amsterdam resident trying to carry one home).
@bluepalomavelomobile8360
3 жыл бұрын
Here in Plano we have plenty of bike trails but unless businesses and houses are on the trails they are not useful. It’s an uphill battle trying to get barrier bicycle lanes implemented here in this city. Many people want to ride here but are too afraid of becoming road kill. 😥
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
I’m really sorry to hear this and unfortunately it’s a common reality. We just need to keep pushing.
@BicycleHoboo
3 жыл бұрын
Lift bike parking place these all over the streets. Slide your bike in lock it. Pay get a code. Push the button and your bike is lifted into the air. Enter your code and your bike comes back down. Much harder for a thief to steal something that's not on ground.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Great idea!
@noahsanchez9236
3 жыл бұрын
I totally agree. I like the idea of dedicated bicycle parking structure, but in the United States I think a quick-win would be to require parking garages to provide bicycle parking. Ideally within a someone secure structure (e.g. bike cage) and within eyesight of an attendant (if there is an attendant). Building codes require a certain amount of parking spaces, incorporating more if not all modes in these sorts of requirements would be a nice place to start.
@PRH123
7 ай бұрын
Exactly, some updates to zoning rules and building codes would be all that it takes... Doesn't have to be complicated or expensive, just a good bike rack in the right place in front of stores and cafes, for example, or as you say in parking garages...
@gerardcooney791
3 жыл бұрын
It’s the same in the U.K. and Ireland. Local authorities are just coming around to the idea of cycling as a means of mass transportation but there’s still a massive lack of investment. Pretty much everyone I know who’s had or has a bicycle has also had one stolen at some time in their life.
@FlyingFun.
3 жыл бұрын
I've been saying this for years, in the UK it is THE main reason I dont cycle to the shops. Literally cant even leave a bike outside a shop for 5 minutes unless it is locked up to something fixed into the ground, even then its risky. People drive round in vans tooled up and can break any lock in seconds and shove the bike into the van and drive off. A locker system of some sort would be good.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
It’s a sad reality, but there is hope :)
@leojonkers3181
3 жыл бұрын
Theft is a problem in every country, especially in big city's. But it is also a problem politician can solve big time. In Rotterdam at the main train station you can park your bicycle underground for no money. 8000 bicycles. Is not even the biggest parking underground in The Netherlands, Utrecht has even a bigger one. There are some lets say half protected parking places in the centre of Rotterdam. Half underground, people work there and will notice theft. There is a smaller one where you even get a ticket, on your bike and one to get your bike back. All for free. So if in New York the bicycle riding is growing fast, people can push the politics. My thought is that big citys like to have people drive their bicycles. Much less polution can be a reason, happiness in general can be a reason. It is much easier to buy something parking your bicycle then your car, so economical can be a great benifit. Go on with this vlogs can people think different also. We have some groups here who fight for the right for bicycle riding and I think we won. But still nothing is perfect here, just go on pressing. It is not only riding bicycles, it is also walking, nice parks, children can play. Cars disturbe a lot. Subways are perfect, in my view. Connect it, make parking places for bicyles near subways. Ask the politician or get a place there. New York is a cool city, this is a perfect city to change. And the people are smart. Is a democratic city also. So do not cry, fight for it. geertkloppenburg.nl/rotterdam-not-a-typical-dutch-cycling-city/?fbclid=IwAR0999OXK5Spbk5GI0A-3Q9qFJ5LEq03P2FqrtUa4Nuqy0V0OLMOkXNfIyc Follow this, it is in English and they talk about more then first example. geertkloppenburg.nl/category/podcast-cycling-around-the-world/
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Excellent feedback Leo! Love your comments as always. Thanks a bunch for sharing these resources. I just subscribed to their podcast :)
@leojonkers3181
3 жыл бұрын
@@Propelbikes Thank you Chris!
@leojonkers3181
3 жыл бұрын
@@Propelbikes kzitem.info/news/bejne/wpmsvqiAmGtjg4o&ab_channel=Fietsersbond is dutch. But give an idear.
@RB-sr1oc
3 жыл бұрын
Parking is one important piece to overall infrastructure. The massive private parking garage that I use for work only provides a minimalist bike rack outside the structure which is not sheltered. A couple of years back I visited their office to ask that they consider providing better and safer places to lockup inside the parking garage. They pretty much laughed me out of their office. No revenue in it for them. It does slow the commute to have to use two massive locks with cables on each wheel and the saddle rails in addition to having to remove all bags and removeable lights.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
It is really sad about that! Maybe their could be some rules about that. In NYC there are
@nastythomashobbs
3 жыл бұрын
Fear of theft is why I switched to riding an Electric Unicycle. I only ride my Ebikes for fun. I do errands, shop. go out to eat and have fun on my EUC. No worries about theft as I can just trolley it with me everywhere I go. Need to treat bike theft like they used to treat horse theft back in the day.
@michaelayling8855
3 жыл бұрын
Hanging.
@paulmcknight4137
3 жыл бұрын
Cycling was a bonafide alternative in DC when I started riding 30 years ago. Plenty of bike path short cuts to everywhere in the city. Inner city traffic speeds under 30 mph, reasonably friendly to cyclists. Trails into MD and VA. Temperate climate. I've commuted to a few jobs since then, most of them under 5 miles, in about the same time as a car, faster than bus or subway for that matter, no problem finding a parking space, and never a parking fee. Totally free, efficient, and good for your physical, mental health, and longevity. Humanity is designed to chase game. It's the hunter instinct. Dress appropriately, as you would going out for a walk, with the caveat that cycling pants won't wear out in the crotch like blue jeans, and work seamlessly on the saddle. Moisture wicking tops, especially the one next to the skin, don't get sweaty. Layered up, pedaling the bike keeps rider warm at least down to 32F. If it's cold, pedal harder! I've always commuted in cycling clothing, then changed into street clothing in the mens' room when I got to work. Always carried street shoes, pants, under shorts and top in a backpack or one pannier, with wallet, keys, spare tube, comb, deodorant, etc. I run errands in cycling clothing. I get no strange stares running errands in cycling clothes, largely because on errands with everything in a backpack, I can wear a nice loose t shirt that hides the crotch. Running errands, I lock bike to a stationary object firmly rooted in the ground and as close to the destination as practical. Cable lock in safe areas. U lock if in a neighborhood thieves may patrol. I've lost two frame fit pumps always when parked on the street. That's it over 30 years commuting in DC, NVA, two cities in ETX, and LA. Storage, parking? At work, always rolled the bike into the building, usually stashed in the hallway or broom closet outside the working area. Never had any problems getting permission. If the bike was stashed out of sight, nobody cared. Then again, I was the only one requesting this "privilege." During a gig at the World Bank, the Nigerian underground parking attendant offered a place in his office. He was impressed this yankee would actually ride a bike to a job at the the World Bank. In the various apartments I've lived in, always made space for a bike rack and wall, keeping two bikes warm, dry, and available for maintenance. Bikes aren't cars. They don't pick up much road grime, heat up, or smell like gasoline. Reasonably light weight bikes are easy to shoulder up the stairs and take inside, the safest place there is. The propaganda value of bike lanes and dedicated parking is all wonderful. But really, if you want to commute by bike, just do it. Bikes are extremely versatile in crowded urban environments. In DC Metro, one can take his bike with him except during peak commuter hours. Flex time solves that problem. Then again, gridlock won't slow you down during peak rush hour, usually only other cyclists!
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
I’ve only cycled in DC once but I really enjoyed it. I hope I have the opportunity to do it some more. Thanks a bunch for sharing your personal experience. I certainly enjoyed reading it
@PRH123
7 ай бұрын
I used to ride in from Rockville to downtown in that same time period 30-ish years ago, took only 45 minutes during rush hour... Try that in a car, not even considering parking.... :) We could use parking garages to lock up if need be, unofficially, just go in there and lock it to a pipe, but you could come back the next day in complete confidence that it would still be there... We were pretty rare birds though, most people were frightened by the thought of sharing the road with cars... back then even sidewalks and curbs didn't have the little wheelchair ramp things that they do now, so that wasn't an option... there weren't LED lights yet, so we hung those flashbulb type strobe lights on our backpacks, if you remember those...
@dtape
3 жыл бұрын
What a coincidence! Today I got my Oonee access card for the Oonee parking at Atlantic-Barclay's. I'm excited to start parking my bike there when I do Target shopping trips. I'm going to have a lot more peace of mind having protected bike parking vs the crappy bike parking that's currently there outside. The slots for the bikes to sit in look really convenient too!
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
This is super cool! That thing is awesome and I look forward to more Oonee’s and things like it throughout NYC. It’s pretty amazing how that little detail can really elevate the rider experience.
@misterwizz5690
3 жыл бұрын
So true here in London and the suburbs, you've hit the nail on the head!
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Jerry! It seems we will see most of these changes initially in cities, but suburbs need infrastructure too!
@prlevett
3 жыл бұрын
Very true Jerry, once upon a time I lived and worked in Greenwich, I tried tying my bike to the stair railing in my building but the same day I found someone had tried to wrench the bike from the railing. I tied it up at a bike rack at work where there was a security guard and a week later when I retrieved my bike I found a big chain on it and when I asked I got yelled at by the guard for ‘abandoning’ my bike. It’s a real issue
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
I hope we see more improvements in this area
@christill
3 жыл бұрын
I think this is the biggest barrier to cycling for sure. We need the proper secure bike parks with smart cards and cameras. Anything less is not going to be sufficient in treating bikes with respect and as vehicles. And even though the Japanese system is cool, I think it’s excessive and not really necessary. The ride-through multi-storey bike parks like the Utrecht one to me makes the most sense.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
I think having fobs with cameras will be helpful. Although I think an attendant would be ideal. With the fob someone could try and walk in as someone was walking out.
@9amStudio
3 жыл бұрын
none of that what you said will deter me from riding my bikes. Why I don't bike is because there are no safe bike lanes in Middle freaking Georgia!!! I can deal with the hills, I can deal with the rain and snow, I can deal with no where to park my bike but these crazy ass drivers... I can't fudging deal with. Thus my beach cruiser, mountain bike, rad power bike, rad wagon bike, folding bikes (2) just sits lonely in my storage and living room... :(
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
This is definitely a fair point. Thanks for sharing.
@philipwebster6913
3 жыл бұрын
I am an ex motorcyclist - another pursuit where theft has been a major problem. The kind of information that was helpful to avoiding having my motorbike stolen was about the profile of theft - who is stealing bikes and why. Which kinds of bikes get stolen. Where they get stolen from etc. Here in Britain, it seems clear that if you want a bicycle stolen, parking it at a train station is a good way to go about it. Other than making sure that it is easier for the thief to steal someone else's bike, there doesn't seem to be much more information available. Do they target certain types of bike? Also, what happens to bikes after they are stolen? Are they sold on as complete bikes? Broken for spares? Exported to countries that have less concerns about where they came from? I would certainly be very interested to hear more on this subject, especially as I tend to spend more on my bicycles than I used to spend on motorbikes!
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
These are very fair points. I think if you can start to understand how a thief thinks you're off to a good start.
@PRH123
7 ай бұрын
It would be very interesting to hear from some insider how it actually works. I doubt they break them down for parts, you can't easily sell used parts, and the time you spent doing it would be more than you can get for the parts. Same thing if you mix and match parts to make the bike different before resale. I suppose they often flog them on the internet, but that's a real good way for the owner to find their bike too. I did see a documentary once where they showed an informal street market in London where they resell them. A mechanic once told me that they can be transported en masse between countries, but as I worked in transportation and customs clearance for years, it's hard to imagine how that could be done, much less realize any kind of a profit as a result. Expensive carbon bikes and ebikes, OK can see how they could make money on that. But as far as the rest, it's a mystery. What could be profitable for someone to steal your 20 old rusty Raleigh...
@gerardcooney791
3 жыл бұрын
The majority of bicycle shops in the U.K. & Ireland don’t record the frame numbers of bicycles sold and for that matter neither do buyers. This makes it very difficult for police to trace the owners of these bikes when and if they get recovered.
@PRH123
7 ай бұрын
The police in the UK often hold seminars where they register bikes, and put some kind of invisible mark on them for identification. I went with my son to one such event at a local bike shop, think it was Evans.
@carlchristensen584
3 жыл бұрын
I've had the same thought. Even in my small city in flyover land west of Chicago, potential theft is a concern.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Hopefully we can bring some more light to this concern.
@jamesquinn8558
2 жыл бұрын
THIS is yet another key reason weight is my number one consideration. If I can fold it to a smaller form factor and carry it or in the case of groceries stores place it in the cart while I shop is cool and doesn’t cost me to park.
@henrytwigger2245
3 жыл бұрын
2009 I was in a meeting at Greenpeace headquarters in London. A friend had chained his bicycle to the railing in the street outside. A van drew up, a man with a balaclava and a Stihl saw running got out, cut the lock off, threw the bicycle in the van and was gone, in less than 10 seconds. Bicycle had cost more than $4,000. Not uncommon for high end sports cycles. Even if thieves aren't so well organized to cut off a serious lock, they can still take bits off. Quick release wheels are the first to go. It's not just bicycles that city cyclists need to keep secure. Luggage, shopping, clothing needs to be secured as well. If you drive you can lock stuff in the car.
@yotagang3705
2 жыл бұрын
this is something that runs thru my mind daily “is someone gonna steal my bike today?” ebikes are expensive and I can see people not wanting to get in or wanting to get back into biking cus its expensive only to get it stolen. I go to the gym and the store and I’m always aftaid of it being stolen, no lock is secure! The thiefs can cut it! Its really just a matter of time. out here in LA the culture is if u drive a bike; youre either poor or a weirdo/hobo.
@madelineduffin1352
2 жыл бұрын
i live in Calgary, Ab and I have had a huge problem with bike theft over the years, thieves cutting through expensive u-locks and cables so i bought and assembled a bike shed from wayfair and it has prevented alot of vandalism and crime since i bought it two years ago.
@haraldsh6653
3 жыл бұрын
Bike theft is limiting in Norway too, especially e-bikes. Bike parking is basicly limited (or crap). Maybe some small bike rack bought cheaply is the only available option. I’ve asked my local grocerystore whether they’ll consider better parking for bikes, but that’s not something they can consider, it’s up to the owner of the building.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
It’s a global issue, but speaking up about it definitely helps!
@LairdDavidson
3 жыл бұрын
Theft is a huge problem here in the UK and now in Europe too. Here we have professional gangs going around in vans with all the gear to defeat your locks on top of the regular scum bags. I've had several bikes stolen and it's a constant concern even though I've got gold secure rated locks. There's areas I simply won't cycle to as a result.
@emiel1976ep
3 жыл бұрын
In my city we have free guarded parking in the city and ad the train station it is very cheap. But that is normal around here. Those locks that only lock the rear wheel, are only used by people that have an old or cheap bike. As it is an expensive bike, they ad an extra lock, to lock it on something and they will also parked it guarded as they stay longer away. I don't like to hang my bike on the front wheel. I just want to park it without lift it in between other bikes. The system where you park bikes above each other works very good. Light, even with an e-bike and easy.
@ramimalik3132
3 жыл бұрын
Just look to one of the most popular cycling cities for the answer. In Amsterdam people ride the oldest, roughest, beaten up bikes possible. Then just chain it up anywhere when you arrive, like a lamp post, fence or any bit of street furniture. This solves the issue of bike theft too, as someone else's bike is far more worth stealing. When councils and local authorities get sick of the clutter of bikes strewn around the locality they recognise the new for a formal dedicated bike park and build one.
@dgmithril
3 жыл бұрын
As always, Chris, thank you for your insights. As someone living in New York, I think it's very evident that bike parking is limiting people's abilities (and willingness) to utilize bikes as an everyday mode of transportation. It's sort of a catch-22 as with most things; there isn't bike infrastructure in place so there aren't many bikers, but that's because there aren't enough bikers to justify bike infrastructure. I just want to make 2 points that I think your viewers (and perhaps yourself) should consider: First is that we should go for the low hanging fruit. If I remember correctly, your Brooklyn store is right by the Navy Yard, right? Wouldn't bike parking make sense for the ferry system? Maybe I wouldn't mind biking to the Navy Yard from, let's say, somewhere around the Barclays Center so that I can avoid the ridiculous overcrowded train lines when heading into Wall Street. And instead of bringing my bike onto the ferry, I can just secure it at the ferry stop. Like you said, the question is whether the numbers would work for something like this, but I feel like it's such a small thing that can really improve how we get around the city, the most bang for the buck. The second thing I want to point out is that if you (meaning you viewers, not just Chris) are passionate about biking infrastructure, NOW is the time to contact your Congressional representative. We all know that one of the new administration's priorities is climate change. If NYC can't afford to put down bike infrastructure, NOW is the time where we can push for federal funding for such initiatives! Let your representative know that you'd like to see your neighborhood become more bike-friendly. Ask them to push for funding for infrastructure for alternative modes of transportation. Let them know that the charging stations that the government wants to install everywhere would also be great for e-bikes. We can make it a public-private joint venture and have businesses submit RFPs. I look forward to a more bike-friendly NYC (and the US as a whole) and together we can make this happen. Sorry for the long speech!
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
These are great points!!! Secure parking could change so much
@PRH123
7 ай бұрын
Good ideas. But waiting for congress to provide a deus ex machina is a hopeless thing. Local level is the best bet. It would require some simple amendments to existing codes to require building owners to provide parking. No doubt there would be massive pushback from them, as they tend to resist everything, but with the focus on the environment as you say, now it's the right time. Just as a side comment, it's interesting how solving such simple things, that much of the rest of the world has already done, is so often considered "impossible" in the us. In Germany they sort their trash into 7 categories nowadays for recycling, the UK gets 25% of its electricity from wind, China is covered by high speed rail, the Dutch as we all know have an amazing bike culture... but in the us it's all considered "impossible," because of this thing, and that thing, and the other thing...
@mikeowen3478
3 жыл бұрын
Hear, hear. 100% agree. One of your best videos, and there’s been some stonkers. 1. Secure parking and 2. Safe infra, the two equally most important things to mode shifting our transport and make a better world. I think you’ve hit on something! Advocates often focus on the safe infra... you’re right, the secure parking is equally (often times more) important. Best of luck pushing this Team Propel. Peace dude ✌️ PS. Love the background music, love the new end frame. And the studio really works 👍 PPS. How about a secure parking vid series? Interview with the oonee guy, like the Benno one would be good.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks a bunch Mike! I hope you’re staying safe and getting to enjoy the bikes some. Glad you’re digging our new stuff :)
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
I’d love to interview Shabazz, he would make a great guest for a podcast
@mikeowen3478
3 жыл бұрын
@@Propelbikes “citiPARK by oonee” sounds great. You’re a super interviewer, go for it! ✌️
@andydogdixon1
3 жыл бұрын
Get insurance if you can. My agent added my bike to my homeowners insurance policy. Deductible deductible if stolen is $1000. That deductible may seem high, but not a bad deal when it’s going to replace my full carbon electric tripped out bike.
@mauricepark
3 жыл бұрын
Yes, for sure it is a problem. In San Francisco has a poor bike parking system. here and there you see bikes on the pedestrian road and no space to park your bike.
@Gamikom
3 жыл бұрын
Here in Finland bikes get stolen all the time... Police does not really care about the issue and bike thieves never go to jail even if they get caught. I would like to use a bike for transportation but the bike will get stolen even if it has the best lock, GPS and alarms. It's cheaper to use a car because bikes get stolen so regularly.
@Tommaso77777
3 жыл бұрын
Thank's, Im very familiar with Brooklyn & agree! You will see more Electric folding scooters in the urban cities. Some can do (I don't suggest it) 80 MPH! Fold it under your desk!
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Those fast scooters can be very dangerous. I do agree the scooters are popular though.
@wesflack992
3 жыл бұрын
Right on!! Parking is an important element of the biking infrastructure, but the biggest problem across USA is still a lack of routes where people can bike without fear of death. Most places near me in Atlanta suburbs do not have any secure racks, but there are few safe roads or paths around, so very few people ride bikes anywhere except recreational riding after they have used a truck to haul the bike to the spot to ride. I often ride on sidewalks to run local errands, but some roads don't have sidewalks, and there is just no safe way to bike even though the destination is just a few miles away. It is very frustrating, but the opportunity for change now seems greater than ever before, so I am more optimistic than ever.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Wes! I have family in Georgia and I often think about trying to do something down there. Infrastructure is the biggest driver these days for growing the bike community. People need to feel safe. Glad you’re able to find some ways of getting out there
@christopherharmon9336
3 жыл бұрын
The problem now, especially in cities, bike theft is a "victimless" crime. The rights of the criminals can't be infringed.
@juch3
3 жыл бұрын
Can you please elaborate?
@ishouldbesleeping1354
Жыл бұрын
Bike shops could sell suitcases (hard shell or soft sided ) and if wheeled like a suitcase, we could always have our folded bikes with us inside. For now my “ inside “ is my car, so I’m not helping with emissions much and many places use the concerns about fires from batteries as their excuse from allowing them inside. So for now, biking is for pleasure not to save on emissions.
@olzt100
3 жыл бұрын
If I am shopping in a buidling for a short time I bring my bike inside the building. Locked and placed in a corner for five or ten or minutes is not going to hurt the store. If I am in longer more than 10 minutes then a very open and visible place locked with a chain is where place the bike. Usually at the entrance of a store. The main thing I do is take all valuables off the handlebar and lock the frame and front tire. IF the area is a sketchy area I also have a U lock that secure to back rim and the frame. So basically, if thieves want to the seat or handlebar that is the only thing that is readily available. But for most thieves, the whole bike as a unit is a better offer than working to take parts. The other major factor is not to leave your wheels alone for a long period of time in a sketchy area. If you plan on leaving your bike for a few hours you need to secure it near a business and in clear view of the public.
@habib5915
3 жыл бұрын
I live in indonesia, where most people. i think around 70% of it's citizen use motorcycle. And a regular bike is considered as "just a bike" and commuting with bike is kinda hard. not only secure issue, but also road problem where most people would think "cyclist is a hindrace coz they are slow". This create a Folding bike tren and MTB tren, coz u can bring folding bike and fit it in somewhere in your workplace like i did and MTB is a good option if u want to avoid highway but u need to park it somewhere safe. Folding bike is great if u guys want to keep your bike with you or doesn't have anywhere to park, but a good folding bike cost more than ordinary commuter bike. it cost a lot XD I'm used to use folding bike since i don't have much space in my previous home/room, but after i move and don't have any issue with space i change to Hybrid bike and i can told that Folding bike are a bit more ustable. Folding bike is great if u have space/parking issue.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
This is unfortunate. I hope this idea changes
@Dark__Thoughts
3 жыл бұрын
I am building a hardtail as sort of a do it all solution too (since I don't have much space, nor money), in the hopes that we finally come around with proper bike infrastructure in Germany. Right now we're an extremely car centric country, especially my city where I am living (which is also very hilly). I think lots of public advocating for this is very important, to slowly change the whole mindset within our societies, and with that within politics. With climate change this is also a very important topic for our species as a whole.
@ZeNN-Music
3 жыл бұрын
Everything you said sounds so alien and strange to me as a dutch citizen. Here, those things are a given. Without a complete (parking-) system of infrastructure, you do not feel taken seriously.
@atomicsmith
3 жыл бұрын
Come on, most of the major parking facilities in the Netherlands are less than 10 years old. It's not hard to find places even in Central Amsterdam which do not have adequate cycle parking. I was walking past a theatre a few years ago and there were actual piles of bikes out front because the city had not provided enough places to park for this public building. It's not "alien" because cycle infrastructure is still developing everywhere, including the Netherlands.
@ZeNN-Music
3 жыл бұрын
@@atomicsmith There alway used to be parkingspots. However the last 10/20 years saw an increase in bicycle use, so expansion and (better) infrastructure are the plan. It is true they're catching up with the game, I'll give you that.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
I do think this is an often overlooked piece of critical infrastructure. I like the phrase "not be taken seriously" I wonder how the DOT (Department of Transportation) would feel if they were told that.
@Dark__Thoughts
3 жыл бұрын
@@ZeNN-Music The Netherlands also suffer a lot from abandoned bikes taking up parking space.
@dougwedel9484
2 жыл бұрын
The best security for bike parking is take it indoors. That could mean a garage in suburbia. It definitely does not mean bike rooms. If there is an arrangement like for a coat check, where someone hands you your bike, that could work, but not just an unattended room. We need to be able to bring our bike into our condo or apartment. That means have a wash station in or near the lobby and have an elevator that fits bikes. This is already possible with a folding bike like a Brompton. Bromptons are such a joy to store or carry with me when I shop. I left my Brompton in a coat check (with my coat) before. It was the coolest thing. There is another approach that is ignored. Encourage people to be honest, to not steal. Japan largely has a culture where people don't steal. That's an ideal approach. I have no idea how this culture gets generated but I'm convinced it's possible. That's definitely a worthwhile effort, if it works. There are different levels of theft, where I heard that people in London UK will have someone approach them and someone takes their bike from them under threat of intimidation, maybe with a weapon. Getting mugged, as they say. Then there are the thousands of abandoned bicycles. These are easy targets for thieves who often feel they are cleaning up the neighbourhood. I pass by bikes that have been left for years and are falling apart, literally rusting away. Then there are thieves who will cut locks on a new bike after you leave it for five minutes. There are so many aspects of bike theft.
@maxnewts
3 жыл бұрын
I have an idea. if any places with major office space would say they benefit from their staff being on bicycles then maybe they could put a near ground level floor of their office building if they are wealthy enough to manoeuvre their office in such a way. Even places like hotels or train stations. A city could benefit a lot in normal circumstances where there is no COVID pandemic happening to install a pod hotel, a hotel where the rooms are small pods to take up less space, and then on their entrances either be connected via public metro or bus station or be on a major bicycle route where they can put a lot of people in free flowing situations with less strain on the traffic flow of the surrounding area. I understand the necessary precautions for having such a building, it would need to be fully secured at all times and because there aren’t many places where infrastructure works in this fashion it will have to be one of the major pioneering systematic projects, so it will need to be on a visually attractive platform as well. We’re part of the revolution, of the most powerful climate and social entrepreneurial movement within the next foreseeable future, seen as how we are the ones which although only talking about bicycles will shape the densest in populous communities that extist, so let’s do it right!
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Love the idea Max! Thanks so much for sharing!
@kzarz0219
3 жыл бұрын
I picture a modified ship container with multiple partitions and access. You can add an outlet for e-bikes. Cheap and probably easy to modify.
@jp2159642587
Жыл бұрын
I don’t drive biking is my vehicle, keep the videos coming. Thank you.
@hansdavis7335
3 жыл бұрын
The best option for me and actually doing it for years is just buy those foldable bicycles and place it inside your home or office (if it's allowed). For me I've been placing mine inside the security guards' office or under my desk, at home its in the corner of my kitchen.
@antonoat
3 жыл бұрын
As always Chris, you’ve got your finger on the pulse. Security is a massive issue even more so for those who invest in e-bikes. In London gangs actively travel around stealing motorcycles often in broad daylight, they are armed with cordless disc cutters which with their high tech blades can cut through virtually any lock in seconds. If they can’t get to the lock for whatever reason they’ll just cut through the railings or whatever the motorcycles are locked to. They are very organised! The only way forward I can see is for society to treat cycle and motorcycle theft the same as horse theft was treated in times gone past, the liberals would never stand for that so the rest of us have to cover the cost, it’s very annoying. I think manned bike garages would be an option but in cities like London land costs are astronomical.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
It’s an unfortunate reality. But we’ll get there. Secure parking facilities seem to be the only way.
@musicmann1967
3 жыл бұрын
So you're saying it's 'the liberals' fault because we don't hang bicycle thieves in the town square?
@antonoat
3 жыл бұрын
@@musicmann1967 My comment was slightly tongue in cheek. What I was getting at is that certain parts of society dislike thieves/ criminals being treated harshly, in the meantime decent law abiding people have to pay either through increased insurance premiums or in replacement costs for the things that have been stolen. Why should we have to live in a society where it's very often the victims of crime who are being penalised, the criminals are excused the responsibility for their actions, honestly it makes me sick and I think you'll find most people are fed up with it. If extremely harsh penalties are needed to stop criminals then that's just fine by me.
@musicmann1967
3 жыл бұрын
@@antonoat I think it's more that the lawmakers just don't take the subject of bicycle and ebike thievery seriously enough. I don't "liberals" or most anyone else thinks they should let thieves off lightly. I just don't think the topic of bike thievery gets serious enough attention by people in office who could do something about it.
@ex0stasis72
3 жыл бұрын
Person: “Bikes are too expensive.” Same person: **buys a car**
@PRH123
7 ай бұрын
The us has stringent rules in most towns and cities as far as the amount of automobile parking that someone constructing a building must provide. It would not be difficult nor terribly expensive to mandate providing bicycle parking. For a store or cafe it can be as simple as a good rack out front. It amazes me how many bike shops dont have racks or have really useless ones...! Apartment buildings could easily in a variety of forms provide secure parking. I'm lucky in that in this part of the world most all apartment buildings are constructed with an internal second corridor behind a secure door on each floor, where people park their bikes. So you can bring the bike inside, but it doesn't have to come into the house. Most office centers have bike racks now, and they are usually next to where the security guard sits, which is great for commuting. I'm quite lucky that i can use the underground garage at work. Visiting a colleague in london they have an underground bike dedicated garage with automatic sliding glass doors, lockers and showers... The us as we all know likes to laud itself as being ahead of everyone else, but in this area it's still in the stone age...
@mikebarbee8621
3 жыл бұрын
Great commentary for bikers! Thank you for spreading this information!!
@thelanittaja4765
3 жыл бұрын
I couldn't relate more. So far my bike hasn't been stolen, but it has been vandalized in the past. Living in low crime area, but there were few bullies. Now I no longer have to deal with bullies but maybe 1-2 times a year there is someone breaking into bike sheds (connected to apartment buildings) and stealing as many bikes as they can. Also stealing bikes / bike parts is unfortunately a common threat for bikes left in public unattended for a weekend. I keep my bike in my apartment (it's a rather nice bike), but very often I find myself parking it somewhere else than a bike rack. That's because most racks here only hold the front wheel. Since I have quick release wheels, it's not really good to just lock 1 wheel, but carrying many locks get's kinda unpractical. Most of the time I lock my bike to a drainpipe, fence, pillar, tree or tree guard. I always use a bike rack (to which I can lock my bikes frame) when one is available, but many places don't have them. Sure the big malls, train stations, shopping streets tend to have them, but some don't. Neither do most recreational facilities, schools, grocery stores, apartment buildings (for "guest parking"), or other stores. Sure building these parking racks is kinda expensive (compared to cheap stands costing ~20€ per bike) but they don't really have to be fixed to the ground. The rack has to be big enough (one welded piece of metal) so it won't fit inside a van (especially if bikes are locked to it). They also need to be either in secured places (=under surveillance) or in central location where many people are looking / passing by (enough people to stop a thief, or call cops / security). Luckily things are getting better, but more could be done faster.
@MenuMystique
11 ай бұрын
It's now almost 2024. I am wondering if this situation with Bicycle parking has changed in the past few years since this video was first posted? I live in Berkeley, close to both San Francisco and Oakland. Here, there has been, what feels sudden, a recent interest in building a better micro-mobility infrastructure. This includes what I feel is perhaps the best and most important aspect of these ventures: Parking and, in general, Bike Security. MORE investments in this area would absolutely be the most encouraging and enduring "promotion," if you will...and imho the #1 best bang for the buck... in our current state. There are hidden benefits that, long term, helps to provide for some of the confidence that is missing.
@twmsmith
2 жыл бұрын
I just bought an ebike after having not ridden a bike in over a decade since my last one was stolen off my 2nd floor balcony. I'm giving it another go but, like you say in this video, my main concern is security and that limits how I use my bike. I still do many trips by car as a result. Thank you for what you do! I appreciate your videos and work.
@lkj974
2 жыл бұрын
Second floor balcony!? Wow!
@michaelpickles1422
3 жыл бұрын
When I Commute and visit cities and using a bike makes sense, I use my Brompton, it means I can take it everywhere with me, bus, train, shops, eateries etc
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
This is definitely a solution for some but it’s not a fix all. We need more solutions to these problems.
@lordfubar1
2 жыл бұрын
Seeing the bike parking garages in one of your Amsterdam videos blew me away! It would be nice to have something like that even on a smaller scale in the USA. I think of bike theft every time I take my bike shopping. If there isn't a place to securely lock my bike, I will go somewhere else. I currently ride a 11 year old Diamondback Trace hybrid which I use 2 different types of locks. I am thinking about getting an eBike too with 3 or 4 different style of locks and a mean Pitbull dog.
@suburbia2050
3 жыл бұрын
Simple solution would be secure, sealed mulit-bike storage units with an internal automated racking system and face recognition retrieval tech, could mass produce them and roll them out, in more senstive locations these could be slotted inside exisiting buildings or basements.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
I like how you’re thinking
@5DNRG
2 жыл бұрын
All true here! With the increasing expensive cost of ebikes, and the dire need to eliminate greenhouse gases, bikes are still gaining in popularity. But, it's obvious cities need to wake up and provide more and safer bike lanes and safe and secure bike storage. I'm inspired to write several effective letters to community leaders to get the ball rolling...Coloradoans are active, but the cities' priorities need revising.
@qubafootbag
3 жыл бұрын
You look quite sad at this video, don't worry man! You're doing great job! You live in the hardest countries to promote biking in the world, remember about that. Be patient, step by step it's gonna be better
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Lol! I appreciate your feedback. It is frustrating at times but I remain optimistic and I’m excited about the progress we are making. I could definitely use a bit of loosening up, but I’m getting there :)
@finishstrongcycling2355
3 жыл бұрын
This is a great topic! When I visit places by bike, I would spend more time (and money) if I had secure places to keep my ride safe. Thanks for covering this very important issue!
@IS-xk3iq
3 жыл бұрын
The shortages of places to park my bike deters me from using it as often as I'd like to.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
You’re not alone
@erso3302
3 жыл бұрын
I mostly worry about cars zooming past at 50mph while texting. Second is the bike racks that are tucked in some dark corner, away from view.
@thomashughes_teh
3 жыл бұрын
My local grocery store installed some racks. Two are in almost constant use but the other is often inaccessible because the clerks make 2 or three short rows of security function disabled carts near it from customers who roll the carts past the invisible perimeter.
@williammeredith2953
3 жыл бұрын
Where I live we seem to have a lot of marginal retail space since so much retailing is going online. Every time a shoe shop or book shop closes down, the space is used by a restaurant or mini market. Lots of bikes are parked on the street because people don't have space inside, and there are LOTS of bikes stolen. So...if the city authorities could create the right incentives, there is plenty of opportunity to create bike garages that would probably even be profitable.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
That’s a great idea!
@dohminkonoha3200
2 жыл бұрын
I ride paratrooper bicycle and train, bus. The combination of para and fast train is good solution for city life. It’s even faster than car.
@Michael-wn4jj
3 жыл бұрын
A country wide central registraition of each bike having unique number lasered into frame will help to dry out dealer market with stolen bikes. IMO this is the single point where you can get them.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
There are many initiatives pushing for this. Maybe it will help.
@tedbellWRV
3 жыл бұрын
I totally agree the GPS tracker is not really a good way to go. I also agree that the corporate sponsor route is better than the idea of trying to foster a financially self-supporting bike parking/bike repair "stand". Not sure if the corporate sponsor idea could pencil out in cities other than the 5 to 10 largest in the U.S. though. A related area I'd encourage you to look into is the design of bike parking. My pet peeve are the hanging bike stalls - which work great for a bike from the 80's, but are not very practical for a modern commuting bike - especially an e-bike that might weight 50 to 75 lbs. I believe bike parking should not require lifting and hanging the bike. I liked the bike parking compounds provided near apartment buildings that we've seen in Copenhagen - with fenced and locked "compounds" and racks inside to lock to. I installed these bike compounds at ferry terminals for commuters going back to the 1990's. The issue that e-bikes are bulkier/heavier, plus parking for larger cargo bikes are areas where many designers of bike parking facilities are apparently lost. It is important to note that across the U.S., thousands of bike parking spaces are going in every year. Both in public spaces and in private developments. But many of the bike parking designers, architects and engineers, are still using old design standards for bike parking infrastructure - woefully in need of updating. It would be great to illustrate in a video how a well designed bike parking space could facilitate the many needs - safety, security and the ability to accommodate modern bike frames (i.e., not a only a diamond frame!), and handle the larger cargo bikes.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
These are excellent points Ted! I can always count on you for that! We've seen some interesting designs implementing lockers for cargo bikes into the parklets which are becoming common. The ideas is the cargo bike could be available on a cooperative basis and members of the neighborhood can share it.
@tedbellWRV
3 жыл бұрын
@@Propelbikes Clear back in the 1990's we looked at installing the bike lockers at public transportation facilities such as ferry terminals and there was a concern they would become "housing" for those in need. I don't think that should be a big concern, but it is great if the bike parking can have some kind of human presence or activity nearby to discourage inappropriate use.
@Zoza15
3 жыл бұрын
Its all about the gradual process in cycling popularity, it didn't happened overnight in The Netherlands either..
@garrettturner3481
3 жыл бұрын
when I ride my bike people look at me like I am a loser or something, and it does not help when the parking is by the trash
@atmywitsend1984
3 жыл бұрын
Its sad that you feel like that. Just remember a quote by one of the greatest minds in history. " when I see an adult riding a bicycle,it gives me hope for mankind" Albert Einstein.
@garrettturner3481
3 жыл бұрын
@@atmywitsend1984 thank you that made my day
@ionflow1073
11 ай бұрын
My first nice mountain bike (Nishiki) was stolen on the Navy base in Norfolk, VA. I had it locked up right on the pier where my ship was moored. It wasn't until afterward that I learned my ship had a bike storage on board. Smh
@Davidsteer1
9 ай бұрын
My experience is more suburban, but it’s an issue trying to be car light with so little secure bike parking. For example grocery stores, bars restaurants have huge parking lots but rarely loops to lock a bike to. I’d love to see bike parking minimums. 50 car spots to zero bike spots is ridiculous
@edwinbuisman3977
3 жыл бұрын
As a dutch citizen we are 'spoiled' with good facilities for parking, but also biking. I do not live in Amsterdam, but here bikes are a very common way to do shopping, work, town, etc. Bike parking is a 'thing' , especially electric bikes. A good set of locks helos a lot! And taking the battery with you...
@Guesswhokk
Жыл бұрын
Cycling Hesitancy due to: 1 - Route Safety - if route are too busy & unsafe, lack street lights, muddy track, hilly climb route or next to a 10 ton HGV 2 - Security - fear of stolen, no decent bike insurance, inconvenient bike lock is a joke, trade inconvenience = more secure. 3 - Lack Infrastructure - places to lockup, protect from weather, cycle route painted to nowhere, bus & taxi refusal full size bikes, public staircase with slopes, what to do with a flat tire midway, what to do if stolen, office without showers, car centric road design. 4 - Weather fear - lack alternative options when raining, bus refusal or no park & ride, carry extra gear, fear park overnights 5 - Confusing wide variety & no standardization - e.g. tyre diameter, no mandatory built in light & blinkers (except Germany) 6 - Cost cost cost
@seerodney
3 жыл бұрын
Secure bike storage could lead to so many good things. Imagine if you could store your 'extra' bikes at a secure location and rent them out? This would help build out the volume and number of locations. Plenty of need for better infrastructure, but nothing does it better than drivers just seeing more riders.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
This is an excellent idea!
@Altema22
3 жыл бұрын
Parking is an issue, especially when infrastructure is car-based and bikes are an afterthought. We have a small mall with twenty stores nearby, and one rusty bike rack at the far end. My favorite store has a bike rack, but it's as far away from the door as possible, an all a thief would need to do if caught is walk away. A major mall is half a mile away with parking for thousands of cars... and six bikes.
@maxnewts
3 жыл бұрын
As of right now my hometown of Bedford, in Bedfordshire, United Kingdom only has one ‘bike parking facility’. Truthfully I wouldn’t even consider it, as it’s an unmanned metal hut locker thing which is not locked and is VERY frequently used as a thief bicycle fencing spot since it’s fairly out if sight and most of the time even in daylight has little or no lighting. I’m currently advocating for SERIOUS bicycle storage facilities, ones which are manned and are inspired heavily by the Utrecht Stationsplein Fietsenstalling. The 12,500 space facility built underneath the train station with multiple levels and immediate access to the station and nearby shopping halls. If this is successful I might even try doing this in Milton Keynes, Bedford’s nearest city, with a population of just under 1&1/2 million
@buddy1155
3 жыл бұрын
How it works with those bus stops in The Netherlands, some towns get paid + free bus shelter, some towns get only the free shelter, some towns get a discount on the shelter. Depends how good the location (for advertisements) is + negotiation skills of the town.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
So cool to hear this!
@buddy1155
3 жыл бұрын
@@Propelbikes It is actual not cool but very sad. The financial strong towns have in general the best deals were they get paid, the financial struggling towns have to pay for their bus shelters. The former go into the negotiations knowing that they have gold, they are the guardians of who can advertise in the public space and who can't. The latter goes into the negotiations worrying about getting enough desperately needed shelters to keep their population dry when waiting for the bus. Towns simply don't know enough about marketing: it is the low income/low educated demographic that is easiest to manipulate by advertisements, they are worth the most.
@Propelbikes
3 жыл бұрын
Makes sense. It is a real shame. You would think some of these things should be provided for the public good
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