It is important to construct and maintain a smooth ridable surface clear of defects, joints, and other potential obstructions on bicycle facilities. Shared use paths must also meet pedestrian accessibility surface requirements. Reinforced concrete is typically preferred for all bikeways compared with asphalt, crushed aggregate, sand, clay, or stabilized earth. Since unpaved surfaces provide less traction, they decrease braking ability for bicyclists which can cause bicyclists to lose control more easily. Past research has shown that smoother surfaces are desirable for bicyclists. When placing a seal coat as a final driving surface, consider one of the following low cost options to provide an improved riding surface for bicycles: use a smaller seal coat aggregate, use a smaller seal coat aggregate on the shoulders, use fog seal on existing seal coated shoulders rather than a new seal coat, or use smaller aggregate for the top course of multiple course seal coats.

If permeable pavements are smooth, stable, and slip resistant, they can be used for bikeways. By facilitating gradual absorption of water into the ground, permeable pavement can increase bike traction and reduce icing by providing an outlet for standing water, provided that the surface is maintained to ensure continued permeability.

Locating utilities within or close to permeable pavements should be avoided to the maximum extent possible or limited to crossings of the bikeway. When repairs are necessary, utility companies sometimes do not recognize permeable pavements, and replace them with standard asphalt, reducing stormwater treatment capacity. Where crossings are unavoidable, a carrier pipe should be provided to allow access to the utility without damaging the permeable pavement.

Unpaved surfaces may be appropriate on an interim basis, but the preferred trail surface is paved. Interim unpaved surfaces could be used on rural shared use paths in relatively flat terrain, where the intended use of the path is primarily recreational. To accommodate people with disabilities, unpaved pathways should be constructed of materials that are firm and stable. Possible surfaces for unpaved paths include crushed stone, stabilized earth, and limestone screenings, depending upon local availability.