junctionist
Senior Member
For a bicycle trail or path to be designed well for bicycles, they should have:
- wide lanes
- little or no hills, but if required then gentle inclines
- no hairpin turns or curves
- bollards should be spaced wide
- no mistaken pathways for pedestrians or bicycles
- bicycle repair shops close by or gas stations with air pumps
- refreshments or restaurants close by or along the way
- washrooms available along the way
- water fountains
- benches off the path but close by in the shade, rest stops
- plenty of bicycle posts
- YIELD signs, not STOP signs
- dismounting not allowed
- no barriers
- no detours because of obstacles
I'd also add lighting for evening users, especially good for when the days get shorter. Winter maintenance is also key for cycling to be taken seriously.