A combination lane usually refers to a lane nearest the curb which serves various modes of traffic or movements. An example would be a transit-bicycle lane. Generally such multiple uses are operationally acceptable unless there is considerable bus and bike traffic. Signs might identify this lane as a priority BUS AND RIGHT TURNS ONLY EXCEPT BIKES. Another signing alternative is BICYCLES BUSES AND RIGHT TURNS ONLY. The lane would accommodate bus traffic, motor vehicles making right turns, and bicycles where it is not feasible to provide separate facilities.

These combination lanes are not without problems. If there is a shortage of bus and bike traffic, the lane can become another peak hour traffic lane. Provision of combination lanes on arterial streets with on- and off-ramps creates a difficult riding situation for bicyclists.

If bus and bike traffic need to be separated, the bus lane is usually nearest the curb, which reduces conflicts between buses accessing stops and bicycles traveling through, and between bus passengers and bicyclists. Separated lanes should reduce conflicts associated with buses moving in and out of a single bus and bike lane.

Communities with shared bike/bus lanes include Santa Cruz, CA; Philadelphia, PA; Tucson, AZ (case study #16); and Toronto, ON.