Bike point at the railway station of Ghent

Challenge addressed: How to help reducing car dependency

Many cities aim to reduce car dependency by linking cycling with public transport. Cyclist-friendly services at train stations help riders tackle unexpected issues and make bike rentals seamless, enabling true multimodal travel. Bike points with service hubs and ample parking at railway stations become crucial, empowering commuters to leave the car behind and reach work via a smarter train and bike combination.

Solution implemented: Bike Point at Gent-Sint-Pieters railway station

Bike Point at Gent-Sint-Pieters railway station was introduced to promote sustainable mobility and support the growing number of cyclists in the city. Located within the station, it makes it easy to combine cycling with public transport. As bicycle use steadily increased, so did the need for reliable, accessible services. The facility responds with convenient repairs, a wide range of rental options for commuters and visitors, and free tyre inflation, ensuring safer and more efficient cycling.
 

Results achieved: Directly accessible from the train station

The bike point’s location is a key factor in its success. Directly accessible from the train station, it is situated within a large bicycle parking area and clearly marked with prominent signs and posters. This ensures that if a parked bike has an issue, assistance is immediately available on site. Users can also rent a wide range of bicycles, including e-bikes, cargo bikes, and standard models, catering to diverse mobility needs. The facility includes a fully equipped repair center for both rented and privately owned bicycles. The initiative supports Ghent’s strategy to promote cycling, reduce car dependency, and better integrate railway stations into a sustainable mobility system.

Lessons learned: Boost user confidence and daily use

Locating bike points directly at railway stations, within large parking areas, and with clear signage, maximizes impact by enabling seamless train–bike integration. On-site repairs and diverse rental options boost user confidence and daily use. The concept requires minimal infrastructure, adapts to different station sizes and local needs, and can be replicated to reduce car dependency, improve accessibility, and promote sustainable, multimodal mobility.
 

Cross Links

Publications: Bike point Gent-Sint-Pieters | De Fietsambassade Gent | Bicycles | De Fietsambassade Gent