As of the new May 3 2009 timetable update, Metro-North Railroad will be allowing bikes on more of its trains.
Here is a summary of the new rules, as per today’s press release:
Of note to bicyclists, with the May 3 timetable, Metro-North is relaxing restrictions on bicycle transport by allowing bikes to be carried on most Reverse Peak trains and in the periods immediately around the evening peak period. So now, bikes will be allowed on most trains departing Grand Central between 3 p.m. and 3:59 p.m. and from 8:01 p.m. to 8:15 p.m.
Blanket prohibitions against bicycles during these periods will be replaced with train-specific restrictions. The object is to keep bicycles off those trains that have proven to be consistently crowded. The new timetables will provide customers with guidance on when bicycles may be carried aboard trains. Note: these symbols will only appear in the large, full-line (Hudson, Harlem and New Haven) timetables.
The intent of this change is to make Metro-North more “bike-friendly” and to attract new customers who wish to use bicycles as part of their workday travel plans. Folding bicycles are allowed on board Metro-North trains at all times.
And here’s a link to the existing rules.
I took my bike on Metro-North once to go mountain biking at Blue Mountain in Peekskill and had no problems. I highly recommend the MNCR+BIKE combo.
About time. Pound for pound the bicycle is one of the greatest forms of transportation we have and its use should be encouraged, not blocked. I commend MN for improving service for its bicyclist passengers.