Protected Bike Lanes
Separated for safety. Curbs, posts, or medians create a physical barrier between bikers and cars.
What is it?
A protected bike lane is a bike lane that is physically separated from moving traffic using features like curbs, posts, planters, or parked cars. This separation helps reduce conflicts with vehicles and creates a safer, more comfortable space for people biking.
Protected bike lanes are designed for people of all ages and abilities, especially on streets with higher speeds or traffic volumes.
How it Works
The bike lane runs alongside the street but is physically* separated from traffic
- Barriers may include:
- Concrete curbs
- Flexible posts
- Planters
- *Paint (not a true barrier)
- At intersections and driveways, markings and design features help clarify where people biking and driving may cross paths
Why It Matters
Protected bike lanes:
- Reduce exposure to moving vehicles
- Make biking feel safer and more predictable
- Encourage more people to bike
- Lower stress for people biking and driving
They are a proven street design that improves comfort and safety while supporting healthier, more active transportation.
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Curb-Protected Bike Lane
A bike lane separated from traffic by a raised curb or concrete barrier. This provides clear, continuous physical protection along the street.
On N. Segoe Road, concrete curbs separate car traffic from bikes.
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Post-Protected Bike Lane
Flexible posts separate the bike lane from moving vehicles. Posts help reinforce separation and visibility while remaining adaptable.
This portion of the Wilson Street Cycletrack uses both flexposts and parked cars to protect bikes.
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Parking-Protected Bike Lane
Parked cars sit between the bike lane and traffic, acting as a buffer. The bike lane runs closer to the curb, with space added to reduce dooring risk. Learn more about parking-protected bike lanes here.
Along S. Bassett Street, both parked cars and flexposts separate car traffic from bikes.
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Image credit: Madison BikesBuffered Bike Lanes
Extra painted space separates the bike lane from traffic or parking. Buffers increase comfort but do not provide physical protection.
On Whitney Way, buffered bike lanes stretch from Tokay Boulevard to Sheboygan Avenue.
Where You’ll See Them in Madison
Protected bike lanes can be found along many Madison roadways, especially on major roads where bike traffic and demand is high.
Tips for Drivers
- Do not drive or park in protected bike lanes
- Yield to people biking when turning across the bike lane
- Watch carefully at intersections and crossings