Hi, I have the pass and I've read their regulations. Still isn't really clear to me how it works. They suggest a bungee cord to secure the bike. Seems that would have to be a pretty heavy cord? Or maybe could you just use a U-lock?

And where exactly in the train does the bike go? Is it within your view or not?

I'll be returning from Montauk to the city on a Friday in early June. Anyone who's taken their bike on a train, please can you share your experiences? Thanks.

bungee is just to wrap around a pole. Bike stays with you. They like if you are near the end cars, but I never had a problem. Friday TO the city should be quiet.

Keep an eye for the handicapped cars (usually towards the ends of the train). The seats fold up, you can roll the bike in there and bungee the handlebars to the seat in front or to the post in back.

I'd also get 2 velcro ties (hardware store for a buck or two) and lock your brakes (tie them around the brake handle and the handlebar so they're locked) - it'll stop it from moving around too much if you don't bungee it right.

you can use your helmet.
You also can use string, twine, anything even a belt or shoe lace, just in case.

I've trained my bike in on the LIRR before but I wasn't coming from that far out. I basically just rolled my bike into one of the door ways and moved accordingly based on the door opening sides of the platforms. My train ride is 20-30mins so I just stood with it until I got to penn station. I did not purchase the bike pass

I take my bike on Metro-North all the time, and they do ask for the bike permit pretty regularly. If you're just going one time, you could probably plead ignorance and get by without the permit. If you're going to make a habit of it, it's worth the $5.

I take my bike on Metro-North all the time, and they do ask for the bike permit pretty regularly. If you're just going one time, you could probably plead ignorance and get by without the permit. If you're going to make a habit of it, it's worth the $5.

really? I've been taking the north white plains line all last week to and from nyc (off peak of course) with my bike and havn't been asked for a permit once (at least yet). I find the car with the handicap area and lean my bike there so its out of the way. I guess it depends on the conductors and the trains weren't crowded when I used them.