By Jim Cameron
Now that summer is unofficially underway, let’s revisit a recent column of interest to bikers…
Taking mass transit is great. But when you step off your train or bus, what do you do to get to your final destination? Increasingly, that means BYO wheels: a bike, e-bike or scooter.
The problem is, the rules for bringing your “wheels” can be very different depending on your carrier.
METRO-NORTH:
You can bring your non-electric-powered bike on the train anytime… except rush- hour and certain holidays. Some train cars include wall-mounted racks; check the TrainTime app for bike-friendly trains and car markings. If you have a folding bike that can get stowed in the overhead rack, you can bring it anytime.
But if your bike or scooter is powered, the rules are quite different.
First, you can’t ride your e-whatever at the station, on the platform or in the train.
You can only bring your wheels on the train if it folds up, weighs less than 100 pounds and is your property, i.e. not a CitiBike, VEO etc.
You cannot charge your e-bike on the train. It must have UL-certified batteries and be stored in an area so it doesn’t block other passengers. Whatever the rules may be, the train conductor or railroad staffer always has the final say and can stop you and your bike from being on the train. If the train’s too crowded, you may be denied boarding.
Remember… if your final destination is Grand Central Terminal there are any number of Citi Bike stations just outside on the street. At New Haven there are bike-shares available through Ride New Haven.
SHORE LINE EAST & HARTFORD LINE: The e-bike rules here are quite similar. Unlike on Metro-North, regular (non-electric) bicycles are welcome
anytime. On the Hartford Line, CT Rail trains welcome bikes anytime for free. But Amtrak’s Hartford Line trains accept bikes only with a reservation and a charge of $20. You should call Amtrak at 800-872-7245 to purchase your ticket and secure a bike spot, as space is limited.
Confused yet? Best if you check your railroad’s rules carefully, as e-bike policies differ between CT Rail and Amtrak-operated trains.
At Hartford’s Union Station you can rent a scooter (but no bikes) through VEO.
Bikes may be added in the future.
CT TRANSIT BUSES:
Connecticut’s buses were pioneers in allowing bikes… not in the bus, but on racks mounted on the outside front of the bus. The racks only hold two bikes,
and its first-come, first-carried.
Only standard non-motorized bikes are allowed on racks; e-bikes, scooters, and motorized vehicles are not permitted, regardless of weight.
OTHER BUSES IN CONNECTICUT:
All GBTA (Greater Bridgeport) buses are equipped to carry your bicycle… two- bike maximum, first-come first-served. Norwalk Transit rules aren’t crystal clear.
You might want to consult your carrier’s website or ask the driver before trying to transport your device.
PORT JEFFERSON FERRY:
The Port Jefferson Ferry allows bicycles and e-bikes onboard, but according to company policy, they are considered luggage and must be kept with the rider at all times. Cyclists are required to carry their bikes as well as any baggage up and down staircases to the passenger decks. If there’s room you can use the elevator.
Whatever your destination, always BYO (and wear) a helmet when operating on two wheels. And remember: E-bikes and scooters should use UL-certified batteries and never be charged aboard any vehicle or station.