Thinking of combining your train journey with a bike ride? It's a fantastic way to explore, but planning is key. Many train operators welcome bicycles, but rules can vary. Some services require a reservation for your bike, so it's essential to check the specific cycle policies for each train company on your route before you travel.
General guidance for onboard cycles
Before you head to the station, here are some universal rules for taking your bike on the train. Following these helps ensure a smooth journey for everyone.
- Label your bike clearly with your name and contact details.
- Folded bikes should be covered, ideally in a protective case.
- Bikes must be kept in designated areas and must not obstruct doors, walkways, or wheelchair spaces.
- For safety and security, unaccompanied bikes are not permitted.
- Please note that motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not allowed on trains.
- Bikes are carried at the owner’s risk, as per the National Rail Conditions of Travel.
Types of Bikes
Different bikes have different rules. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect based on your type of cycle.
Folding Bikes
You’re welcome to bring a folding bike on any train, at no extra cost, as long as it can be stowed safely in the luggage racks. A few operators have specific requirements:
- c2c and Stansted Express: Folding bikes should be transported in a protective carrying case.
- East Midlands Railway, South Western Railway, and LNER: Carried free of charge as long as they can be stowed as luggage.
- London Overground: Carried free of charge, with a limit of one per vestibule area during peak times.
Tandem Bikes
Due to their size, tandems are only permitted on a limited number of services. It is essential to check with the operator before travelling:
- Avanti West Coast
- Greater Anglia
- LNER
- ScotRail (Glasgow to Oban route only)
E-Bikes
Road-legal electric bicycles (e-bikes) can be taken on most trains. These are pedal-assisted bikes with a motor that has a maximum power output of 250 watts and cuts out at 15.5 mph. Standard cycle restrictions for the operator, such as peak time rules, also apply to e-bikes.
On the Elizabeth Line and London Overground, only folding e-bikes can be carried at any time. Restrictions apply during peak times.
Bicycles on buses
Sometimes a journey involves a bus link or a rail replacement service. What does that mean for you and your bike?
- Non-folding bikes are not allowed on buses.
- Folding bikes are usually permitted if there’s space and the bike is fully folded and stowed like luggage. However, a space cannot be guaranteed.
Hire schemes
Don't have your own bike with you? Many cities have cycle hire schemes, making it easy to explore on two wheels. In London, you can rent a bike from one of over 700 docking stations. It's a self-service system available 24/7. For more information, visit the Transport for London website.
Other major cities like Manchester, Glasgow, and Liverpool also have popular schemes. Check your journey planner for information about cycle hire availability at stations.
Quick tips
Do
- Reserve a space for your bike if required.
- Stow your folding bike safely as luggage.
- Check the rules for each train company before you travel.
Don't
- Obstruct doors, aisles, or wheelchair spaces.
- Attempt to bring a motorcycle or tricycle.
- Forget your helmet and safety gear!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my bike on the train?
Yes, many train operators allow bikes onboard, but you may need to reserve a space in advance. Folding bikes are almost always allowed if they can be stowed as luggage. Tandem and e-bikes have more specific restrictions.
Can I store my bike at a station?
Yes, many railway stations have bike storage facilities. Search station information pages to see what's available.
Can I bring my bike on a bus?
Only folding bikes are allowed on buses, provided they can be stowed as luggage and there is sufficient space.
My Advance ticket is for a train that allows bikes, but reservations are not possible. What if there’s no room?
If there’s no room for your bike on the service specified on your Advance ticket, it's best to check with the train company about their policy and alternative services they may permit you to use.