Metro Light Rail Expands Hours For Bike Riders

The Iron Horse welcomes velocipedes

​Metro and BikeHouston have reached an agreement that expands the hours bike riders will be allowed on light-rail trains.

Bikes are still barred during peak travel hours in the morning and afternoon, but the definition of "peak hours" has changed.

Bikes can now be carried onto trains anytime except 6:30-9 a.m. and 3-6 p.m.


 "Biking and METRO are important alternatives to driving and are natural complements, reducing both traffic and helping clean our air," said Acting President & CEO George Greanias. "With these expanded hours we can accommodate riders during our busiest light-rail hours, and make more room on the system for those whose commute includes bicycles."

Greanias has been making the rounds of media, neighborhood groups and other organizations in an effort to improve Metro's reputation, and that included meeting with bikers, who have complained about being barred from the light rail.

Previously, bikers could only use the rail from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 7 p.m. until the final run.

Peter Wang, an advisor to BikeHouston was quoted in a Metro press release as saying "Bicycling advocates welcome the expansion of bikes-on-board hours to accommodate both 'Early Bird' and 'Late Sleeper' commuters. We urge bicyclist commuters to be mindful of the needs of fellow passengers. Walk (don't ride) your bike on train platforms and sidewalks. Stay out of people's way, don't cram into a crowded rail car, and keep your bike clean."

BikeHouston is also encouraging members to hop on the first train July 19, when the change goes into effect: "We need ALL cyclists to show up at UH Downtown METRO train stop Monday 7/19 to take pictures in celebration of expanded bike hours on train," they've posted on their website.