Can You Take a Bike on the Bus? Commuter Cycling Advice

The main perk of commuter or city bikes is that they give you another way to travel. But sometimes, you’ll need to bring your bike along to get where you’re going. It might seem a bit ironic, but it’s actually quite a common situation in the UK.

For instance, you could be cycling to work, but still need to hop on a bus or the tube along the way. It works, for the most part—but there are some exceptions and considerations.

Limitations on Bike Sizes and Bus Space Availability

(Image Credit: Flickr)

Buses have limited space for bikes, and some may have restrictions on how large or bulky a bike can be, or rules on timing, such as during peak hours. Drivers can also decide not to let you on if it’s too busy, according to Transport for London. For instance, if the bus is crowded or there isn’t enough space to accommodate your regular adult bike without inconveniencing other passengers, the driver has the right to refuse it.

It’s a bit different if you’re bringing a folding bike. Folded cycles are allowed to be taken anywhere, at any time, on all of TfL’s services as hand luggage. This is because they’re easier to store and take up less room, thanks to their folding mechanism. You can carry it on buses in a few different ways: inside the bus itself, either in a shared space or a separate compartment, in the luggage hold (boot), or on a rear-mounted cycle rack outside the bus.

Here’s a guide to ‘How to Fold and Unfold a Folding Bike’ for reference.

Smaller ones, especially kids bikes, are generally allowed as well. Balance bikes are great examples, if you’re travelling with your child—they’re lightweight and small enough to fit on a seat or in luggage storage. This might come up if you’ve just bought one as a surprise for your little one or you’re travelling with your child and their favourite pedal-less wheels.

It’s best to check your local bus service’s bike rules to make sure your bike fits their size limits and avoid any hassles or extra charges.

Things to Consider

In the UK, a number of bus services allow passengers to bring their bikes along. However, to ensure the driver gives you the go-ahead, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Use a carry bag for folding bikes

Using a carry bag for your folding bike is a smart move when taking it on the bus. It keeps it more compact than it is and prevents any grease or dirt from getting on other passengers. Some drivers might also prefer bikes in bags to minimise inconvenience.

However, folding your bike and putting it in the bag can take a bit of time. Make sure you have enough time before your bus arrives. You might also want a bag with long handles to make it easier to carry.

Be mindful of busy times

Try to avoid travelling during rush hours if you can. Even with a folding bike, you might find that you can’t bring it on. Chances are, other passengers with their folding bikes might already be on the bus, or it could be so packed that you’ll need to wait for the next one.

Always respect the driver’s decision in regards to what you can and cannot bring on the bus. Be prepared to find alternate travel arrangements if necessary.

Tip: You could always leave your bike in secure cycle parking if you’re comfortable with it. Check out this guide on ‘How to Lock a Folding Bike’ for extra security.

Check designated areas

Most buses have luggage or pram areas where you can stash a regular bike if there’s space. These spots are there to keep bigger items tucked out of the way, so they’re handy if free. If the area is already in use, though, you might need to wait for the next bus.

Round-up

It’s handy to link up with a bus when you’re travelling somewhere a bit far on your bike. Folding bikes, in particular, are allowed, at least when there’s space available. Otherwise, the driver might not allow it, and it’s important to respect their decision. If you’ve got a sturdy bike lock, you could consider leaving your bike in the parking facilities at bus stops.