Bicyclists

Bikes on Transit

On the Subway

Visit the MTA's Bikes website for comprehensive information about bringing bikes on MTA buses and trains. Bikes are allowed on NYC Subways at all times. Bikes are not allowed on NYC Buses. See below for information on the bike policies from other transit companies in the area. Download bikes on transit rules (pdf) Download the bikes on transit rules in Chinese, Haitian Creole, Italian, Korean, Spanish or Russian

General Rules for Bikes on the Subway

  • Bikes are allowed on the subway at all times, but try to avoid rush hours.
  • Carry your bike on stairs. Wait until the staircase is not crowded. Don't bump the bike down the stairs; you may lose control.
  • Use the service gate. Do not try to lift your bike over the turnstile. Signal the token clerk to release the gate. Use a MetroCard and roll the turnstile. Pull the service gate to enter.
  • Board at the least crowded part of the train, which usually is the front or the back. Never put your bike where it could block an aisle or a door.
  • Stand by your bike. Move your bike to allow others to pass or sit down. If there is a train or station evacuation, you must leave your bike behind to ensure a swift and safe exit for all passengers.
  • Avoid rush hour trains. Conflicts can occur between passengers and cyclists due to limited space or crowded trains.
  • If possible, use BMT or IND trains (letter trains, e.g. A or F), which are wider than IRT trains (number trains, e.g. 3 or 7).

Ferries

Bikes are allowed on the Staten Island Ferry at no charge, and must abide by the Staten Island Ferry rules of conduct for bicyclists.

  • Bicyclists must dismount and walk their bicycles to the waiting area and onto the boat.
  • Bicyclists must board on the lower level at both the St. George and Whitehall Ferry Terminals.
  • Bicycles must be stored in the designated bicycle storage area on each boat.
  • Bicyclists are subject to screening upon arrival at the ferry terminals.

Other ferries in the region:

  • Bikes are allowed on NY Waterway ferries, including the East River Ferry, with a $1 extra fee (800-53-FERRY).
  • Bikes are allowed on Seastreak ferries with a $3 extra fee (800-BOAT-RIDE).
  • Bikes are allowed on Liberty Landing boats at no charge (201-985-4000).
  • Bikes are allowed on NY Water Taxis at no charge (212-742-1969).
  • Bikes are allowed on the Governors Island Ferry at all times with no charge.

Commuter & Regional Rail

The bicycle policies on railroads in the region vary. Bikes may be restricted to specific cars, and generally a limited number of bikes are allowed in each car. Follow

LIRR & Metro-North

A lifetime $5 permit is required for each passenger with a bike. Bikes generally allowed, except at rush hour in the peak direction and on holidays. Learn more from the MTA

Staten Island Railway

Bikes allowed at all times, except for weekdays in the peak direction. Learn more from the MTA

NJ Transit

Folding bikes allowed at all times. Standard bikes generally allowed, except at rush hour in the peak direction, and on holidays. Learn more from NJ Transit

PATH

Bikes allowed at all times except rush hours. Learn more from PATH

Amtrak

Folding bikes can be brought aboard. Standard bikes generally can't be, but rules vary by train and station. Learn more from Amtrak