I dunno, Fritz, but I'll take the contrarian position.  That inverted U rack could take 4 bikes in a very small space if they were positioned right.  The rack I use at work is similar, but it has multiple U's designed for 8 or 10 bikes.  Of course, mine is the only one in it.
One other aspect of inverted U racks is that they're pedestrian friendly - at least when no bikes are present.  Compared to some of the 'art' bike racks, this is a plus. 
--
Posted by Ed W to Cyclelicious at 9/06/2006 06:18:15 PM
 
