In victory for cyclists, Metro allows bikes on rail lines

L.A. Metro allows bikes on board

In a victory for cyclists, Metro has repealed its peak-hour restrictions for taking bicycles aboard rail cars.

Metro's previous policy said bikes could not be taken aboard Blue, Gold, Red and Green Line trains in certain directions between 6:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. and could also not be taken aboard from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in all areas within L.A.'s central business district.

Cyclists using Metro have not always followed the guidelines, but Metro officials said they hope more cyclists will use the system knowing they can "begin and end their trips using bicycles."

Some seats will also be removed from Gold, Green and Blue line trains to accommodate bicycles. Seat removal on the Red/Purple Line has already occurred, Metro said.

Metro officials said they also plan to increase the frequency of some rail service to compensate for the seats removed.

The vote occurred Thursday.