Image Source: Go Glendale

Understand the Different Types of Bike Lanes in Glendale

May is Bike Month, and we’re celebrating by helping residents feel more confident, informed, and comfortable riding in and around Glendale. As we prepare for the upcoming events surrounding Bike Month, it is important to understand the different bike facility classes that are available to riders.

What are Bike Facility Classes?

A bike class is a classification system used by cities and transportation planners to differentiate the different types of paths. Each class indicates how bikes interact with cars and pedestrians, the level of physical separation and protection from traffic, and the comfort and safety level for riders. Understanding the different bike classes and how to identify them can help improve safety, comfort, and overall experience when biking.

The Four Main Bike Classes

Class I: Bike Path/ Multi-Use Trail

Class I bike lanes are completely separated from vehicular traffic, allowing exclusive right-of-way for bicyclists and pedestrians. These help to minimize interaction with vehicles. Class I lanes offer the highest comfort level and are great for beginners or families. Glendale Narrows Riverwalk is an example of this classification near you.

 

 

 

 

Glendale Narrows Riverwalk

Image Source: EPTDESIGN

 

 

Class II: Bike Lane

A conventional bike lane denoted by pavement markings along a roadway. These lanes provide dedicated space for bicyclists on the street while keeping riders visible and improving predictability for drivers that are also on the road.

 

 

 

 

 

Sonora Avenue

Image Source: Joe Linton/Streetsblog L.A.

 

 

 

Class III: Shared Bike Routes

Streets shared by bikes and cars. These are marked with signs or pavement symbols to denote that the street is shared and to indicate bike priority. These are typically found in low-speed neighborhoods or smaller arterial streets and provide a connection to other bike facilities.

 

 

 

 

 

Glenoaks Canyon Residential Street

Image Source: Glenoaks Canyon HOA

 

 

Class IV: Protected Bike Lanes

Bike Lanes separated from traffic by physical barriers such as curbs, planters, bollards, or parked cars. These are usually found on busy, high-traffic corridors to provide extra separation and protection for riders. The La Crescenta Rehabilitation Project is currently under construction and will include the installation of protected and buffered bike lanes, creating safer routes for those biking in the area. Stay updated on all the news and improvements coming to the area through the Go Glendale Website and Newsletter.

 

 

 

 

La Crescenta Rehabilitation Project Construction

Image Source: City of Glendale

 

Knowing about bike classes can make Bike Month participation easier and more enjoyable. Whether you’re an everyday bicyclist or riding for the first time in years, bike classes are a helpful tool for understanding how Glendale’s streets work and the interaction between bikes and vehicles. If you are looking for a new commute option, running errands, or just looking to have some fun and get some exercise, get involved in this bike month and find a route that works for you!