These responses highlight the OP's question why there aren't proper bike racks.
Originally Posted by
PaulH
If there is no bike rack, drive. If there are no parking spaces for cars, use the Internet. If enough people will do this the offending businesses will disappear.
Originally Posted by
flangehead
Stores with shopping carts often provide viable bike racks.
Where I parked just now.
Originally Posted by
Paul Barnard
Is rolling your bike into the store with you an option?
Originally Posted by
flangehead
Nowhere else available.
So where there are no bike racks, cyclists resort to locking their bikes against trees, fences, railings, stairs, gas meters and other secure objects that get property owners all upset.