Organizing bikes

Enclosures should be split between oversize bikes and regular bikes, with an area set aside as flex space. This flex space is the last area you should fill with regular bikes, which allows the flex space to be used for oversize bikes if the expected ratio of oversize to regular bikes is inaccurate.

The first thing to lay out is spaces set aside for oversize bike storage (generally e-bikes, but also including trailers, strollers, etc.). Oversize bike storage should be easy to access from the valet tent, with a clear walking path and a clear layout. For events parking more than 100 bikes, operators may need to label oversize areas (with chalk, stakes, tape, or signs) with letters indicating what is being parked where (see the tag system section for an explanation of how the letter system works).

Oversize bikes include all e-bikes, as well as any bike that is too large or unwieldy to put on a triathlon rack. Depending on the size and type of event, there may be a need to accommodate large numbers of these and other large bikes: cities like Victoria often reach close to a 50% share of oversize bikes, especially at family-focused events; whereas areas with fewer older and family cyclists will park as low as a 15% share. As ebikes grow in popularity and accessibility (particularly with the provincial e-bike grant program) we expect to see this share grow across the province.

Keep in mind that, when a service’s enclosure is on grass, especially after rain, oversize bikes are especially at risk of falling over. To prevent this, a valet will also need plywood squares, about 15cm (6") square, to place under the kickstands. Make sure to sand them to prevent splinters! It can also be helpful to have a handful of larger 20cm x 60cm (8”x 24”) plywood rectangles for parking cargo bikes.

When laying out an enclosure, consider how you will access each bike. There should be a clear and efficient path to the valet tent.