Originally Posted by
CaptainSpalding
In all that I've read on the MTA and other websites, there is no formal definition for what constitutes a folding bike. The Cadenza, while it certainly fits the criteria of a folding bike, might not be the wisest choice.
Many have commented that MTA personnel are often uninformed as to the folder policy. Also, for practical purposes, the judgment of MTA personnel on scene trumps the MTA's written rules. (i.e. there's no point in arguing with an MTA official who tells you you can't bring your bike on the train/bus.)
It's an assumption on my part, but my hunch is that the smaller the bike, the better your chances of getting past the goons.
Very true, as I've been told to unfold and put my bike on the rack by uninformed bus drivers even if the bus was REALLY empty. I'd understand if it was full and there was no space for me + bike, but bleh. It's not a problem at all for trains though. It might be a problem for the Orange line. I don't take the orange line often, but I'm under the impression that it gets as full as the other Metro rapid lines, so nope, don't even try to bring a full-sized folder on. I don't even push it with my 16in folder when it's really full.
It helps to have a "regular" bus driver who kinda knows you and recognizes you and your bike. The regulars on my morning commute are amused instead of angry or annoyed when I fold my bike and bring it in. They know it doesn't take up much space and I can keep it from rolling on people's toes and stuff.