Taking your bike on the train

ianianian

I wondered what the etiquette of taking your bike on the train is?

Last night I needed to get the train home with my bike as of injury and i didnt feel that people were happy with me!
I'll be honest, in the past i've sometimes begrudged bikers on the train, as usually it means their bike having three seats while i have none, however last night there were more free seats than people standing so i couldn't work out what the problem was.

Do i just need to change the way i think?

dang65

I know one should be oblivious to it, but I really hate taking my bike on the train, even when it's reasonably empty. I even feel uncomfortable with a folder. Worst thing is when you get on a half-empty carriage and at the next station crowds of people pile on.

I really don't think there's a solution to this other than to be incredibly thick skinned. I doubt if there's any etiquette that would be more acceptable than simply getting off the train, or not getting on it in the first place.

I've taken my folder on coaches a few times though, because they stow it away in the luggage compartment, no problem. Shame most trains don't have the old guard's van these days. Those were great.

jeepie

I agree that provision for bikes on trains can be poor. The first GW services still have theh excellent old guard van, but I had a nightmare period where SW Trains banned bikes on trains. After many letters they have now changed their policy and now have marked bike carriages.

What I do is just stand with my bike on the train and try to be as courteous as possible to the other passengers who have to clamber over me.

I would recommend doing the Shawshank Redemption thing and just writing very regularly to the train company. In the mean time just keep smiling and try to make the best of a situation which could be improved in the future.

Parkey

It's best to try to avoid travelling at busy times. Check the timetable to see if bikes are allowed on that train, although as a general rule they're only usually restricted from peak services into and out of London.

If there's a bike space (most trains do have them), and if you can find it, use it. If people are stood or sat there politely ask they wouldn't mind if you put your bike in the bike space. Otherwise put your bike in the vestibule. Usually the right hand side of the train is best because platforms are most commonly on the left of the train.

If you're going long distance be sure to book your tickets in advance (even when you don't have a bike!). Use http://www.nationalexpresseastcoast.com/ to book your tickets as they have by far the best booking website with the most options, which include the option to reserve space for your bike for no extra charge. When you collect your tickets they will then include a ticket you can attach to your bike so you won't be turned away. Long distance trains usually have bike racks or hooks and it's usually best to check where they are before travelling.

As for not feeling comfortable with people scowling at you. Just accept that some people just do that. If you smile and make every effort not to inconvence them and they still scowl to put it bluntly you're not the one with the problem.