While many Torontonians know that the post and ring racks that line many of our streets aren't fool-proof, their simple design is unmistakable.
The major benefit of their design is that they give cyclists options when locking. Different bicycles require different locking positions to secure a wheel and frame at the same time and the curved loop allows this, although you are encouraged to lock to the centre pole.
Currently a pilot program in London, UK, the Cyclehoop transforms street signs and poles into usable bicycle parking. The bright colours attract are a lot of attention, which is the point. As more and more bicycles are found on streets around the world, transforming existing space into useable bicycle parking is a "quick-fix" while other initiatives (like large-scale parking stations) are in the works.
Photo via Cyclehoop.com
Labels: Cyclehoop, parking, post and ring
Spotted on Roncesvalles. Increasing visibility and freeing the cyclist of a distinctive "skunk tail" with bright yellow fenders.Labels: fenders, post and ring, Roncesvalles
Sure, we're world-famous for our post and ring bike racks... but where else is there to park your bicycle in Toronto? Turns out, you've got plenty of options...
There's the "Classic":
At BMO Field there are arches:
In Parkdale you get glasses:
On Toronto Island there's room for bikes and canoes:
You'll find hanging triangles:
And back in Parkdale there are more bike rack oddities:
Further north on Yonge street there's a watch:
And then there's the elaborate:
There's the moving bike rack:
You'll find vibrant blue at City Hall:
Make sure you get to your bike rack early, spots fill up fast:
And if you're lucky, your friend will save you a spot:
All photos via Flickr, click on a photo for photographer credit.
Labels: bike racks, infrastructure, post and ring, Toronto
As fall rolls across Toronto, bike racks around town become permanent resting places for abandoned bicycles.
The above big-box suspension bike was left around the corner from my apartment, possibly due to a front flat tire. It remained untouched for almost a week. Walking by yesterday someone had relieved the abandoned bicycle of its rear wheel, bar ends and seat.
What I find compelling though, is that this bicycle is not locked at all. It's just leaning there. Why take the rear wheel and seat when you could just take the whole bike? Perhaps the previous owner will return to the bike in the spring and say, "Well, at least they left that flat front tire."
Labels: abandoned bicycle, post and ring, Toronto