Bike Signals

Bike signals are used at signalized intersection to indicate an additional phase for bicyclists to navigate through the intersection without conflicting with vehicular movements. Bicycle signal heads are typically smaller than vehicular signal heads, and contain the same red, yellow and green indicators with bicycle shaped plates in front of the lenses.

Source: NACTO, Urban Bikeway Design Guide

DESIGN FEATURES OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

Typically the bicycle phase will not be on recall for each cycle. Therefore, bicycle detection shall be installed for Bike Signals. Bike Signal clearance intervals should be calculated assuming a speed of 14 feet per second. A BICYCLE SIGNAL sign should be installed to increase visibility of the Bike Signal. No turn on red signs should be installed if the Bike Signal phase would conflict with a right turn movement. Bike Signals can be used to create a lead bike interval ahead of the vehicle through movement similar to a Lead Pedestrian Interval. While a far-side Bike Signal is required, a near-side Bike Signal is optional for improved visibility. Passive detection methods such as loop or video detection is preferred over active detection such as push buttons so bicyclists don’t have to dismount. Push button extenders are an option for avoiding dismounting. Advance bicycle detection should also be considered to allow continuous bicycle through movements along a premium bicycle corridor.

Source: NACTO, Urban Bikeway Design Guide REFERENCES

NACTO, Urban Bikeway Design Guide AASHO, Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities