Here are the rules for our Metra Rail trains:
Metra’s Bikes on Trains program is designed to enable cyclists to bring their standard-form bicycles on board trains during weekday off-peak hours and on weekends. Three bicycles are allowed in the priority seating area in each accessible diesel rail car; two in each electric railcar. There is no additional charge to your Metra fare to take a bicycle on board the train.
Cyclists will be accommodated on a first come, first serve basis. Metra reserves the right to prohibit bicycles if coaches are crowded or access is impeded, and we make no assurances that space will be available for bicycles. Standard bicycles that do not exceed 70 inches in length are permitted on designated trains; tricycles, tandems, trailers, bulky attachments, training wheels or powered bicycles are prohibited.
Additionally, individual cyclists must be at least 16 years old. Riders aged 12 through 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 12 are not permitted. Cyclists must yield priority seating to seniors and customers with disabilities and may be required to leave the train at any time if the priority seating space is needed for customers with disabilities.
Bicycles are permitted on all weekday trains arriving in Chicago after 9:30 AM and leaving Chicago before 3:00 PM and after 7:00 PM, and on all weekend trains, with the following exceptions:
Blues Fest (June 7 - 10)
All days during Taste of Chicago (June 29 - July 8)
Independence Eve Fireworks (July 3)
Venetian Night (July 28)
Air & Water Show (August 18 & 19)
Jazz Fest (August 30 - September 2)
To ensure safety for all, cyclists must follow instructions of Metra personnel. Cyclists are legally responsible for any damage to the train’s equipment and/or any injury or damage to other passengers or train personnel that result from a cyclist’s negligence. Bicycles must be clean and free of dirt and grease while aboard Metra trains. Bicycles that present a hazard to other customers, Metra facilities or personnel are prohibited. Bicycles must be secured to the lower rail of folding seats in the designated priority seating area with bungee cords or other devices supplied by the cyclist that will adequately secure the bicycle. Bicycles cannot block aisles or impede passenger movement. Cyclists must stay in the same car with their bicycles at all times. All passengers must exit the train before you and your bicycle, and always wait until the train makes a complete stop before you move up the aisle. Please also make sure to take extra caution to not bump your bicycle against passengers or seats. Lift your bicycle as you walk down the steps. If there is an emergency, cyclists must leave their bicycles on the train so as to not block aisles or doors.
Folding bicycles in protective covers are permitted on all trains at all times but should not block train aisles or doorways.