Bicycles and Transit

Every Metro Transit bus has a bike rack on the front bumper that accommodates two bikes. 

How do I put my bike on a bus?

Step-by-step instructions:

  • Always approach the bus from the curb — never ride around to the front of a bus from the street side.

  • Wait with your bicycle on the curb for the bus to come to a complete stop — do not wait in the street. When it is dark outside, consider using a flasher light to hail an approaching bus. This can be especially helpful during the winter months when snow has accumulated on the curb.

  • Bring any loose items with you and consider removing water bottles and bags from your bicycle.

  • You do not need to speak with the bus driver before loading your bicycle on the rack. But, do make eye contact to make sure you are seen as you move in front of the bus to load your bicycle.

  • Bus drivers cannot leave their seat to assist you with loading.

If yours is the only bicycle:

Bus rack step 1

Bus rack step 2

Bus rack step 3

Hoisting the bicycle by the seat tube and stem provides good leverage and keeps the bike stable.

Bus rack step 4

Bus rack step 5

Do not place the arm on top of a fender or brake — it should be in direct contact with the tire.

If there is already a bicycle on the rack, hoist or roll your bicycle into the available slot and proceed as above.

If the rack is loaded with two bicycles, you may ask the driver if you may bring your bike aboard. The driver always has the discretion to determine whether or not your bicycle can be safely accommodated on that trip.

Unloading your bicycle from the rack

  • Notify the driver that you will be unloading your bike.

  • Exit the bus through the front door.

  • Unload your bike by simply reversing the loading procedure.

  • If yours is the only bicycle on the rack, squeeze the handle and return the rack to its upright position.

  • Return to the curb with your bike.

  • Never cross in front of a bus — wait until the bus has left the stop.

Riding the bus with your bicycle

  • Hop on and pay your fare. There is no additional charge for your bicycle.

  • If possible, sit near the front of the bus.

If the driver determines that you can bring your bicycle inside the bus:

  1. Allow other passengers to board first.

  2. Quickly remove any sand, snow,  or debris from the wheels.

  3. Cautiously hoist or roll your bicycle onto the bus.

  4. Ask the driver where you should sit or stand with your bike — generally this will be the rear of the bus.