This paper outlines the main points of the Netherlands Railways' NS "Bicycle" policy document in order to retain and expand the bike-riding train travellers group. By the year 1996, the present storage facilities capacity will be expanded by 13,500 covered storage spaces. NS is also actively in search of more compact bicycle storage systems, in order to be able to utilise the often limited space in the forecourt as efficiently as possible. The solution could be found in automatic storage systems. By combining activities at railway stations NS wants to buy and operate more supervised shelters. The starting point in NS general market strategy in the coming years is to improve overall, door-to-door transport links. The station bicycle facilities will receive high priority. If in doubt, the bicycle must be given preference to the car. The relevance of the various transport means to and from the station is to be reassessed. NS will: (1) offer the customer a good, acceptable, economic alternative, in particular concerning transport from the station of arrival; and (2) investigate the possibilitiesfor a folding bicycle, adapted specifically to accompany train travellers.
Samenvatting