Installing Bike Bollards using Drop-In Inserts
Bike bollards offer decorative appeal with the advantage of secure bicycle storage. They enhance surrounding environments and complement infrastructure while minimizing the clutter that results from improper bike parking.
Bike bollards can be installed on existing concrete surfaces using drop-in inserts and threaded rods. Drop-in inserts should only be installed in fully cured concrete that is at least 4″ thick.(1) All measurements in this installation guide assume a bare, level concrete surface. It is important to note that with this installation method, the bike bollard will offer little impact resistance.
PARTS LIST
# |
PART |
QTY |
---|---|---|
1 |
Bollard Base with Bike Arms |
1 |
2 |
Bike Bollard Cap |
1 |
3 |
3/4″ Drop-In Concrete Insert |
1 |
4 |
3/4″ Threaded Rod |
1 |
5 |
3/4″ Washer |
1 |
6 |
3/4″ Hex Nut |
1 |
7 |
Hexagon Socket Set Screw |
3 |
8 |
Plastic Plug |
3 |
INSTALLATION EQUIPMENT
1″ Masonry Drill Bit |
Chalk |
Hammer |
1-1/8″ Socket Wrench |
3/16″ Hex Key |
Level |
Broom/Pressure Washer |
Measuring Tape |
3/4″ Insert Setting Tool (or equivalent) |
|
Hammer Drill or Rotary Hammer |
|
Vacuum |
NOTE

- To protect the finish, keep bike bollards in original packaging until the exact moment of installation.
- Handle with care to avoid scratching or damaging bike bollard surfaces as abrasions will lead to rust.
- Once scratched, bike bollards cannot be repaired to original form without re-finishing the entire surface.
Before installation
Check for hazards
Always check for hazards such as water pipes, gas lines, and underground wiring before digging.
Clean the surface
Dirt and debris can affect the line of sight and disrupt placement of bike bollards.
Use a broom or pressure washer to clean the concrete surface prior to bike bollard installation.
Study the site plans
Site plans are generally created by the architect of the project.
Refer to site plans to locate and mark the precise center point of each bike bollard.
For secure installation, ensure there is a minimum radius(2)Â of solid concrete around each mark.
Drill the hole
Create pilot hole
Tap a pilot divot hole in the center of each mark.
This will prevent the hammer drill or rotary hammer from drifting while boring the hole.
Set the depth control on the hammer drill (or rotary hammer) to 3-1/8″
If depth control is not available, mark 3-1/8″ on the masonry bit.
Drill the hole
Drill a hole that has a 1″ diameter and 3-1/8″ depth.
Drill on high speed, using the hammer function if available.
Check the masonry bit often to ensure it remains free of debris.

Secure the bike bollard
Clear the hole
Clear the hole of all debris and/or standing water using the vacuum.

Tap the drop-in insert into the hole
With the slotted end facing down, drive the drop-in insert (A) down until its top sits flush with the concrete surface.
Ensure that the top is perfectly level.
Set the drop-in insert
Insert a setting tool (B) into the threaded hole, then hammer down.
If a proper setting tool is not available, an equivalent flat-end punch can be used.
This will cause the internal expansion plug to set the drop-in insert in place.

Place the bike bollard base near the drop-in insert
Keep the bike bollard in its protective packaging. Carefully place the bike bollard base near the installation position.
When ready to install, remove the protective packaging.
Set the bike bollard over the drop-in insert
Set the bike bollard base upright and maneuver it so the center lines up with the threaded hole in the drop-in insert.
Lower the threaded rod and tighten
Lower the threaded rod through the bike bollard base.

Continue to thread the rod into the drop-in insert.
Tighten(3)Â the threaded rod by hand until it is secure in the drop-in insert.

Secure the bike bollard
Place the washer over the threaded rod so that it rests on top of the bike bollard.
Apply the 3/4″ hex nut to the threaded rod and tighten until the bike bollard is secure.
Note: Be sure to check the orientation of the bike bollard arms before securing the bike bollard.

Secure the bike bollard cap
Remove the bike bollard cap from its packaging.
Place the cap on the top of the shaft of the bike bollard.
Secure and align the cap to the bike bollard base with the three set screws. Tighten in equal amounts to ensure that the cap remains centered.

Secure the bollard cap
Remove bollard cap from its packaging.
Place the cap on the top of the shaft of the bollard.
Secure and align the cap to the bollard base with the three set screws. Tighten in equal amounts to ensure that the cap remains centered.

Place the plastic plugs (C) over the set screws.

Inspect
Inspect the installation
From a distance, examine the plane of view.
Ensure the bike bollard is plumb to the surface, and the surface is flat.
Check the bollard for any signs of surface damage
Abrasions should be covered as soon as possible to prevent rust and ensure the proper life of the bike bollard. For damage repair or other servicing needs, please contact Reliance Foundry’s sales department.
Care and maintenance
Reliance Foundry manufactures its products to the highest design standards to ensure their durability. Reliance Foundry’s bike bollards are finished with long-lasting powder coating. In most North American environments, routine inspections and cleaning will ensure that bike bollards retain their aesthetic appeal. Proper care and maintenance are required to maintain the finish and ensure a full service life.
1. Concrete insert manufacturers such as www.ucanfast.com recommend a concrete depth of at least 6″.
2. Concrete insert manufacturers such as www.ucanfast.com recommend an anchor spacing of 7-1/2″, and a minimum edge distance of 9″ for 100% performance.
3. The manufacturer recommends tightening the threaded rod to a depth of approximately 1″ into the concrete insert.
