One of Bangkok's most popular public amenities, the 23.5-kilometer cycle track that loops around Suvarnabhumi Airport on the city's outskirts, has reopened, and thousands of cyclists are flocking there daily, drawn by an array of impressive new facilities, upgrades, and beautiful architectural features.
Though it is commonly referred to as the Skylane, its official name is 'Charoensuk Monkolchit.'
The upshot of the most recent big refurbishment is a breathtaking world-class cycling track that is almost definitely the first of its kind anywhere. Furthermore, it is free and open to everyone of any age, background, or ability. Despite the fact that most cyclists dress in lycra and ride expensive bikes, there are no rules governing these matters.
Skylane includes a series of buildings that provide shaded rest areas with plenty of seating and bicycle racks, restaurants, retail outlets, coffee shops, and VIP rooms for sponsors, in addition to the refurbished two-lane main track that meanders past lakes and through the vast and surprisingly open grasslands surrounding the airport's runways and passenger terminals. The main area and the parking lots are connected by elegant bridges and a stunning spiral 'cycling stairs.' Another unique element is an inflated canopy that serves as a second rest place.
The main track is divided into a purple lane for fast riders and a blue lane for more leisurely cyclists, in acknowledgement of cyclists' various speeds and the paramount requirement for safety. Rest spots with restrooms and shade have been strategically placed throughout the route. Those that provide extremely close-up views of planes taking off and landing are always the most popular, particularly for 'selfies'.
Along the trip, distances and location markers are supplied so that a rider's location can be promptly determined in the event of an emergency.
There is also a 1.6-kilometer short track and a 1.6-kilometer long track for joggers.
There is also now an Australian purpose-built cycle track for kids and beginners as well as lawns for events.
The necessity for enough parking space is critical because most guests transport their bikes in their automobiles or trucks. A partially landscaped car park for 1,500 automobiles is included within the property. The second plot, which belongs to AOT, is connected to the first by a 1.2-kilometer bridge and can hold over 3,500 cars. However, due to the popularity of Skylane, especially on Sunday mornings, parking can be scarce, thus some people park on the main road. Except for the AOT long-term parking lot, all parking is free.
