Who doesn’t love combining the open road with two wheels in Portland, Oregon? Have you ever found yourself in a predicament where riding your bike across the city wasn’t feasible? Today, we’re diving deep into the ins and outs of merging bus commutes with bike travel on Trimet buses. Get ready—this is for all you cyclists out there who want to combine pedal power with public transportation!
Yes, you can bring your bike on a Trimet bus! Trimet has bike racks installed on the front of their buses, allowing passengers to transport their bikes easily. Simply wait for the bus to fully stop, approach the blue pole with your bike, make eye contact with the driver, and proceed to load your bike onto the rack. It’s recommended to practice using the bike rack beforehand at a route terminus or refer to Trimet’s website for detailed instructions.
Rules for Bringing a Bike on a TriMet Bus
For those looking to explore Portland and its surrounding areas on a bike, finding an efficient mode of transportation that can accommodate your bike can be challenging. Luckily, TriMet buses can transport bikes! Here, we look at the rules regarding bringing bikes on TriMet buses and how many are allowed.
- For those looking to explore Portland and its surrounding areas on a bike, TriMet buses provide a convenient option for transportation.
Number of Bikes Allowed
TriMet provides multiple options when it comes to transporting bikes on their buses. First, it’s important to note that not all TriMet buses provide bike racks or space. Additionally, certain restrictions apply regarding when and where to bring your bike onboard the bus.
For example, only folding bicycles are permitted on board during peak weekday commute times (7-9 am and 3-6 pm). Bikes aren’t allowed if the bus carries two other bikes except for folding bikes.
You must also know how to load your bike appropriately into the provided rack before embarking on your journey. Doing so ensures a safe ride for both you and others onboard.
Bus Routes with Bike Racks
TriMet Buses equipped with exterior racks can carry up to two standard-sized bikes simultaneously. This capacity is similar to what other public transit agencies offer cyclists in over 100 cities across America.
| Standard Sized Bikes | Folding Bikes |
|---|---|
| Two per Bus | Unlimited |
However, it’s essential to note that this capacity isn’t set in stone since there are instances where no space remains available due to other passengers’ luggage or strollers. In such scenarios, the driver may have to deny access to additional bike passengers.
It’s also critical to ensure that your bike meets specific size requirements when using TriMet’s bike rack service. The combined weight of your bicycle and any additional gear should not exceed 55 pounds.
By understanding these rules and adhering to the guidelines, cyclists can confidently transport themselves and their bikes on their TriMet journeys. Happy cycling!
- According to a 2020 survey from Trimet, approximately 7% of riders regularly bring their bikes onto the buses.
- It is also worth noting that each Trimet bus can transport two to three bicycles at a time.
- A study by Bike Portland in 2019 noted that around 4% of all commutes in the PDX metro area were facilitated through combined bike-bus travel.
See Related: Can You Bring a Bike on the Bus? Public Transportation Policies and Restrictions
The Procedure of Securing Your Bike on a TriMet Bus
If you prefer a bike as your preferred mode of transportation, you might wonder about your options when traveling on public transport. TriMet buses have made bike accommodation an integral part of their service with provisions like bike racks to ease commuters’ transportation experience.
See Related: Bus from Lima to Huacachina: Best Transportation Option in Peru
Advisory for Peak Hours and Bike Accommodation
TriMet buses with bike racks are available across the Portland region, making it convenient for bikers to use public transport while still carrying their bikes. Each bus rack, located on the front of the bus, can accommodate up to two bikes.
Suppose you want to hop on Line 72-Killingsworth/82nd Ave Eastbound and are hesitant about your bike’s safety. Fear not! These buses come equipped with comfortable and safe bike racks.
Alternatives for Bike Riders during Peak Hours
Peak hours can be challenging for bike commuters, especially on crowded transit systems like TriMet buses. The bus driver can deny conventional bike access once the designated bike racks are full. This policy ensures that passengers with disabilities and strollers have enough room without compromising their safety and comfort.
Picture this – you’re commuting to work or school on a packed bus with your trusty bicycle in tow, only to realize there’s no space for your bike. You’d likely start wondering if there are alternatives available.
See Related: Can You Bring a Bike on Rapid Ride A Line Bus Metro? Transportation Guidelines
Rights and Responsibilities of Bike Riders on TriMet Buses
Before boarding the bus, always ensure enough space for your bike. When loading your bike onto the rack, squeeze the handle on top and lower it down to position it correctly.
Think of it as operating a jack-in-the-box: Hold the handle tightly until fully stopped before letting go slowly and precisely.
Place your bicycle in the rack and secure the front wheel by placing the bar over it. Ensure it’s as close to the frame as possible so your bike won’t sway during transit. Removing loose items or valuables from your bicycle beforehand can prevent theft or loss.
De-boarding is mandatory through the front door, allowing easy access to unload your bike. Informing the driver ensures they’re aware of your presence before stepping off. Remember, never stop before the bus until the driver acknowledges you.
It’s important to note that standard-size bicycles are also permitted inside MAX trains during non-peak times, weekends, and holidays; however, folding bikes are allowed at all times. Understanding how to secure your bike correctly onto TriMet buses helps ensure a safer and smoother ride for all passengers.