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A master thesis from Aalborg University

From wheels to rails: A Spatial Approach to Bicycle Parking at the Copenhagen S-train network

Author(s)

Term

4. term

Education

Publication year

2025

Submitted on

2025-05-28

Pages

63 pages

Abstract

Cities around the world are aiming to promote sustainable urban mobility. Naturally, the integration of bicycles and public transport emerges as a critical strategy. This report investigates the spatial and functional integration of bicycle parking at S-train stations in Copenhagen, focusing on how these facilities influence bike-to-train transfers. Using a combination of GeographicInformationSystems(GIS),Multi-CriteriaDecisionAnalysis(MCDA),andon-sitefield observations, the study evaluates all 87 S-train stations based on three key parameters: parking capacity relative to population and passengers, the proximity of parking to platforms, and the availability of covered or locked facilities. The analysis reveals significant spatial differences in parking facilities among stations. Some stations offer well-located and covered parking, while others lack facilities at part of the station or are underutilized due to poor design. Fieldwork at a selection of high- and low-performing stations confirms these findings and highlights user preferences and behavior, such as the importance of location. The results demonstrate that GIS-based spatial analysis is a powerful tool to identify conflicts with parking areas, such as low capacities. The thesis concludes with practical recommendations for planners, emphasizing the need for strategic placement of facilities, better visibility, and creating a better balance between capacity and demand. These insights are particularly relevant for the planning of new transport nodes, such as the upcoming light rail in Greater Copenhagen, and can also be applied more broadly to support sustainable transport systems in different urban regions.

Keywords

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