Pedestrian & Bicycle
How to Plan a Bicycle Count
Capturing cyclist movement data for active travel planning.
By SWAT Alliance Editorial Team · Updated 25 August 2026
Insight at a glance
A short visual checklist for better study decisions.
Use the article as a starting point, then confirm the project-specific scope, method, review and output with the delivery team.
Question
What decision should this evidence help someone make?
Scope
Which locations, movements, classes and periods matter?
Review
How will completeness and definitions be checked?
Output
What format will make the result easiest to use?
Short answer
A bicycle count records cycling movements through an agreed route, crossing, screenline or junction movement path.
Define route and direction
Use a plan that names the facility and travel direction, especially for shared paths or multi-arm junctions.
State edge-case rules
The brief should explain treatment of e-bikes, scooters, cargo bikes and dismounted riders. Only distinguish categories that the source can support reliably.
Review the count
Check mode treatment, period coverage, direction logic and any source limitation that could conceal riders.
Frequently asked questions
Can a cycle count include e-bikes?
Yes when required and observable under the approved class rules.
Can it be combined with a pedestrian count?
Yes, but mode boundaries and output columns should remain clear.
Go deeper
Bicycle Count Methodology
A consistent method for recording cycling movements by route, direction or crossing.
View Methodology →Related services