More bikes on Metra means more options for you to choo-choo-choose

More bikes will be allowed on Metra this year as part of a pilot to expand the Bikes on Metra program. This exciting news comes thanks to the support you have given us as we continued to ask Metra to provide more options for Chicagoland cyclists wishing combine biking and transit trips.

Michael Gillis, a Metra spokesman, tells ModeShift that the limit of three bikes per car during non rush hour times has been increased to five on all lines except the Electric. Gillis said Metra will test the addition for one year and then determine its success. He reminds Metra riders that bike accommodations are still based on the space available.

Metra defines non-rush hour times as:

• Weekday trains that arrive in Chicago after 9:30 a.m.
• Weekday trains that leave Chicago before 3 p.m. and after 7 p.m.
• Weekend trains

Metra will also lift part of the ban on bikes during the 2010 Taste of Chicago by allowing them during non-rush hour times June 28 on three lines: Milwaukee District North, Union Pacific West and Rock Island.

Thank you Metra and thank you Active Trans members! We will continue to fight to make it easier for you to bring your bike on Metra. Thank you!