Dero Bike Racks Ultra Space Saver: A Review of the New Bike Parking System

As a regular cyclist, I was thrilled to see Arlington County invest in improving our building's bike parking facilities. However, upon closer inspection, I have mixed feelings about the new Dero bike racks ultra space saver system. While it offers ample storage space for bikes, its design has raised some concerns about safety and accessibility.

Firstly, I must address the elephant in the room - the vertical rack design. As someone who lifts weights and practices yoga, I find it frustrating to be told that I'm not strong enough to lift my bike into these racks. It's not about physical strength; it's about practicality and convenience. The old wave rack system allowed for easier access and visibility, which is essential for a safe and secure parking experience.

Another concern is the lack of clear signage indicating that this area is under surveillance by closed-circuit television (CCTV). A simple sign would have alleviated some of my worries about bike safety. Moreover, I'm still unsure if there are security cameras installed in this area.

On a more positive note, the new bike parking space has several features that make it an attractive option for cyclists. The green floor and yellow poles create a visually appealing environment, and the proximity to the elevator doors ensures easy access. Additionally, the no-parking zone adjacent to the bike racks provides an added layer of protection against cars backing into our bikes.

Arlington County's Bicycle Parking Guidelines require at least 30% of bike parking spaces to be horizontal and ground-level, ensuring that all cyclists can easily access the facilities regardless of their age or physical ability. It's heartening to see this guideline being followed in our building.

While I appreciate the effort put into designing a dedicated bike space, I still have reservations about the vertical rack design. The Dero racks ultra space saver system might be an innovative solution for some buildings, but it's not the best fit for ours.

In conclusion, while the new bike parking system has its pros and cons, I believe that more consideration should be given to cyclist safety and accessibility when designing these facilities. By incorporating CCTV signs, improving visibility, and ensuring easy access, we can create a more enjoyable and secure experience for all cyclists.