Navigating Boston with your bike just got easier thanks to the MBTA! Whether you’re commuting to work, exploring the city, or linking up with the scenic Red Line Bike path, understanding the bike policies on public transport is essential. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about bringing your bike on the T, with a special focus on the Red Line.
The MBTA, or “the T” as locals call it, offers various options for cyclists looking to combine biking with public transportation. However, rules differ significantly across lines and modes of transport. Let’s dive into the specifics to ensure your journey is smooth and stress-free, especially if you’re planning to use your red line bike on the subway.
| Line | Weekdays | Weekends | Schedule Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Line Bike | Yes, except 7 – 10 AM and 4 – 7 PM | Yes | View Red Line schedules |
| Green Line | No | No | View Mattapan Trolley schedules |
| Orange Line | Yes, except 7 – 10 AM and 4 – 7 PM | Yes | View Orange Line schedules |
| Green Line | No | No | View Green Line schedules |
| Blue Line | Inbound: Yes, except 7 – 9 AM Outbound: Yes, except 4 – 6 PM |
Yes | View Blue Line schedules |
| Silver Line (SL1, SL2, SL3) | Yes, on bike racks | Yes, on bike racks | View SL1 schedules View SL2 schedules View SL3 schedules |
| Silver Line (SL4, SL5) | Yes, on bike racks | Yes, on bike racks | View SL4 schedules View SL5 schedules |
| Buses | Yes, on bike racks | Yes, on bike racks | View bus schedules |
| Commuter Rail (Greenbush, Kingston, Middleborough/Lakeville, Fairmount) | Yes, at all times | Yes | View all rules for bringing bikes on trains |
| Commuter Rail (Other Lines) | Yes, check timetables for bike symbols | Yes | View all rules for bringing bikes on trains |
| Ferry | Yes | Yes | View ferry schedules |
Navigating the Red Line with Your Bike
For cyclists keen on using the Red Line, good news! Bikes are permitted on Red Line trains outside of rush hours. This makes it convenient to access various bike-friendly spots along the Red Line, such as the scenic paths near Alewife or connecting to routes towards Cambridge and beyond. Remember, during peak hours on weekdays (7-10 AM and 4-7 PM), bikes are restricted on the Red Line to ensure smooth commutes for all passengers. Plan your trips accordingly to take full advantage of the Red Line bike access.
Important Bike Rules Across the MBTA Network
While the Red Line offers decent bike access, remember that the Green Line and Mattapan Trolley are always off-limits for standard street bikes. Folding bikes, however, are welcome on all MBTA services at any time, provided they are fully folded. This is a great option for commuters who need maximum flexibility.
Also, be aware that bike access may be restricted on holidays, during special events, or if service disruptions occur. Always check the MBTA service updates for the latest information before you travel, especially if you are planning to bring your red line bike during potentially busy times. Certain stations also prohibit bikes on platforms, so pay attention to station signage. Motorized bikes and vehicles are not allowed on the T at any time for safety reasons.
Tips for Bringing Your Bike on the MBTA
- Plan Ahead: Check the schedules and rules for the specific line you intend to use, especially if you’re using your red line bike during the week.
- Avoid Rush Hour: If possible, travel outside of peak hours (7-10 AM and 4-7 PM on weekdays) to easily bring your bike on the Red, Orange, and Blue Lines.
- Use Bike Racks on Buses & Silver Line: Buses and Silver Line routes are equipped with bike racks on the front, making them very bike-friendly at all times.
- Consider Folding Bikes: For ultimate flexibility, a folding bike eliminates time restrictions and line limitations across the entire MBTA system.
A closed pedal and park bike station with bikes parked inside at Forest Hills station
Alt text: Forest Hills station pedal and park bike cage, providing secure bike storage for commuters accessing the MBTA Red Line.
Bike Parking at MBTA Stations
The MBTA provides various bike parking options at stations, including bike racks and Pedal & Park facilities. Pedal & Park offers secure, covered bike parking for a small fee and requires CharlieCard registration. This is an excellent option for daily commuters who want to cycle to a station like Forest Hills on the Red Line and leave their bike safely.
Bike Parking
Resources for Boston Cyclists
To further enhance your biking experience in Boston, explore these helpful resources:
- Bluebikes: Boston’s bike share program, with stations across Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, and Somerville. Great for short trips and linking to MBTA stations.
- Boston Bikes: City of Boston resources for safe cycling, routes, and bike advocacy.
- MassBike: Statewide advocacy group with resources for biking throughout Massachusetts.
Contact MBTA Customer Support
For any specific bike-related questions or concerns, reach out to MBTA Customer Support for assistance.
Customer Support
Bikes on Buses: A Convenient Option
A person secures a bicycle on the bike rack on the front of a bus at Haymarket station
Alt text: Cyclist loading a standard bicycle onto the front rack of an MBTA bus at Haymarket station, demonstrating bus bike accessibility.
MBTA buses across various routes are equipped with user-friendly bike racks on the front. This is a fantastic way to integrate biking into your bus commute, extending your reach and making your journey more active.
Using bus bike racks
Bikes on Trains: Expanding Your Reach
A Commuter Rail train stopped at the Providence-bound platform.
Alt text: MBTA Commuter Rail train at a station platform, highlighting train services that accommodate bicycles for longer distance travel outside of Boston.
Certain subway lines and Commuter Rail trains also accommodate bikes, opening up opportunities for longer trips and bike-and-ride commuting beyond the immediate city center. Always check the specific line rules and schedules before planning your train journey with your bike.
Pedal and Park: Secure Bike Storage
A pedal and park bike facility with bikes locked inside at Back Bay station
Alt text: Interior view of the Back Bay station Pedal and Park bike storage facility, showing multiple bikes securely parked inside the sheltered enclosure.
For cyclists who prefer to bike to the station and leave their bike securely, MBTA’s Pedal and Park facilities offer a safe and weather-protected option. Register your CharlieCard online to access these facilities at various stations, including key Red Line stops, enhancing your commute and bike access across Boston.
