Bikes and E-Scooters on Trains

Attention: Metra has temporarily relaxed its bikes on trains policy and is allowing bikes and folding e-scooters on all trains across all 11 lines. There are still limits to the number of bicycles allowed and cyclists should be advised there is no guarantee that bikes or e-scooters can be accommodated on an initial or return trip (particularly on rush-hour trains), and crews have the right to refuse bikes or e-scooters in the event of overcrowding or depending on the needs of customers with disabilities. Customers may inform Metra they were denied boarding through the Contact Us form by selecting "Bicycle Denied Boarding."

Also, click here to read about Metra's new Bike Cars.

Standard sized bikes and e-scooters can be accommodated in the priority seating area of each ADA-accessible railcar. Up to five bikes or e-scooters are allowed per accessible diesel railcar and two bikes are allowed per Metra Electric car, all of which are accessible. An ADA symbol on the outside of the railcars indicates accessibility.  

 

Bikes on Trains
Bikes on Electric Trains

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gasoline-powered bicycles or vehicles of any kind are not permitted on any trains. Tricycles, tandems, trailers, bulky attachments or training wheels are also prohibited. Bikes and e-scooters are not to exceed 70 inches and are accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis, and those with mobility devices always receive priority. There is no guarantee that bikes or e-scooters can be accommodated on an initial or return trip (including late-night trains), and crews have the right to refuse bikes or e-scooters in the event of overcrowding or depending on the needs of customers with disabilities.

During special events, there is an increased likelihood that bikes and e-scooters cannot be accommodated. Warnings are in place for these annual events:

  • St. Patrick's Day Parade
  • Blues Festival
  • Taste of Chicago
  • Lollapalooza
  • Air and Water Show

Notice of any additional bike and e-scooter warning dates will be published on this website.

Cyclists and e-scooter users should allow passengers (including those with mobility devices) to board and detrain prior to carrying a bike on or off the train. Once on board, cyclists and e-scooter users must secure their bike or e-scooter to the lower railing of the folding seat with a bungee cord or other device that the they provide and accompany their bike or e-scooter at all times.

How-To Guidance

 

Additional Info

  • During an emergency in which a train needs to be evacuated, customers must leave their bikes or e-scooters on the train.
  • In the case that cyclists or e-scooter users are required to get off the train before their destination, reimbursement will be based on the fare product used for that trip.
  • Train crews are not required to assist with the boarding of bikes or e-scooters - their primary responsibilities are for passenger safety and assisting those with disabilities. Bicyclists and e-scooter users must be able to board and detrain without assistance from conductors.
  • The wheelchair lift cannot be used to load or unload bikes or e-scooters.
  • There is no additional charge for bikes or e-scooters.
  • Bikes and e-scooters should be free of dirt and grease prior to boarding.
Resources