That's a great and very practical question. As someone who's managed public spaces, I've seen this firsthand. The short answer is: modern, heavy-duty plastic outdoor bins are surprisingly tough, but it absolutely depends on the quality and design.
The good ones, typically made from rotationally molded high-density polyethylene (HDPE), are designed for this kind of abuse. This material has a natural "give" or flexibility. When kicked or hit by a bike, it will often dent inward and then pop back to its original shape, unlike metal which might dent permanently or brittle materials that could crack. It's like a robust plastic fuel can – it can take a beating.
Key features that help are thick walls (look for bins labeled "commercial" or "heavy-duty"), reinforced bases and lids, and a sturdy, often bolted-on, metal ring around the top opening. Bins with a rounded, ribbed, or textured body also tend to distribute impact force better than flat-sided ones.
That said, there are limits. A direct, full-force hit from a mountain bike at high speed could potentially crack the plastic, especially at stress points like where the lid hinges attach or at thin sections near the bottom. Constant, intentional vandalism with extreme force will eventually damage any bin.
For most accidental bumps, kicks, or casual misuse, a well-made plastic bin will withstand it very well and last for years. They're a resilient choice for parks, campuses, and sidewalks. For extremely high-traffic or high-vandalism areas, some operators opt for concrete or welded metal, but these lack the flexibility and cost benefits of plastic.
My advice? Invest in a commercial-grade bin from a reputable supplier, ensure it's properly anchored, and it should handle the occasional bike collision or frustrated kick without a major issue.