I live in Southern California and work for a University. Today, my boss was asked to research solutions for expanding our bicycle parking (bike racks) around campus and to decide on what will likely become the new standard rack design for the campus. He quickly called me into the office since he doesn't have any personal experience, and asked me for my thoughts. Unfortunately I have theories, but there are plenty bike rack styles such as the Wave racks etc. that I've never used. I figured I'd offer you guys the opportunity to help me to decide between the different options, and potentially help steer the path of our campus's future bike parking.

I assume the wave design would allow both the front wheel and frame to be locked with a U-lock (is this correct?), but involves leaning your bike against a metal pole. Apparently that design can be ordered with a 'softer finish', some kind of coating that minimizes scratching damage to bike frames.

The more traditional styles that support either the front half or bottom half of the front wheel provide better support for the bike, but require chains or cables in order to reach up to the frame. No U-locks here.

I use a cable lock to lock my bike to one of the low loop racks at work, but it's in a well protected area and the use of a heavy duty U-lock probably isn't necessary. These locks will be for the many students who ride to class each day and may not have a car to fall back on if their bike gets stolen.

The two preferences that I have initially are the "grid style" as shown in this link
http://www.bicycleparkingracks.com/i...1022&Cc=IBR-GD

...and also the Wave style...
http://www.bicycleparkingracks.com/i...1053&Cc=IBR-WV

Also, it looks like the Grid style will fit many more bikes per linear foot of 'rack' than the wave design will.

Thanks.

-Jeremy