Yeah, trains/light rail is the way to go. Here in Seattle, we have a very good bus system, but bussing is still unpleasant compared to taking rail. Fortunately, I live within about 5 miles of everything I need on a regular basis (groceries, theaters, etc.), so most of the time it's faster for me to just bike everywhere rather than bus.
Portland, our sister city, has a great light rail system that allows people to bring their bikes - it's pleasant, and efficient.