Finding ways to integrate cycling with public transport

The first thing to do is to make it safe for cyclists to use public roads. So, cycling-specific infrastructure, such as, bicycle lanes should be part of the development by government agencies.



Since it is not possible to go long distances on a bicycle, cyclists will consider utilising public transport part of the way.



Would you be comfortable parking your bicycle in an open space environment like this?



If bicycles are not allowed to be brought up public transport during peak period, there must be allocated parking spaces that have been enhanced to prevent theft and the elements of nature that could damage bicycles.

Once these issues are looked into, there are many ways to integrate cycling with public transport. The good thing is that you do not have to crack your head for answers.

If you google "public transport and cycling", you will find many reports and studies made on integrating cycling with public transport. Reading them will inspire you to discover ways to adopt some of the ideas for your own country.

These are some I found by searching "public transport and cycling":

Integrating cycling with public transport

Public transport and cycling: living apart or together?

Another way to find more of such reports is to google “intermodality bicycle”. These are links I found through that search.

Cycling and Intermodality

Bikeways and intermodality between bicycles and public transport 

Is a folding bike more convenient than a regular bike to carry on board public transit?

Different countries have different regulations about traveling with a bicycle on public transport. I think it is best to know what is acceptable in your country before you make a decision to carry one on board.

A regular alloy 26″ bicycle can weigh 15kg or less while a 20″ alloy folding bike can weigh between 9kg to 12kg. Which of these weights are manageable for you to carry around?

If you travel with a folding bike, once it is folded, it does not intrude the space of fellow passengers. As the pedals can also be folded you do not have to worry about anyone bumping into them or your handlebar and getting hurt.

You can also get a bag for storing your folding bike before boarding a public transport. That way, you can be assured that it does not get scratched by your own carelessness or by passengers bumping into it.

This folding bike bag comes with a storage bag that you can hang on your handlebar when it is not in use. If you leave the folding bike bag at home, you can use the empty storage bag as a handlebar bag.

This is also a bag for folding bike but with wheels attached. It will be easier for you to move your bike around if you do not intend to ride it after alighting from the public transport.

Here are guideline provided by Rapid KL of what you must look out for when traveling on their trains with a foldable or non bicycle in tow.

Provided you are lucky enough to find a friendly bus driver who is willing to accept a token from you to help, most bus company in Malaysia will not allow you to take bikes onboard their buses.  However, if it is a folding bike packed in a bag small enough to store in the bus luggage compartment, the driver will consider it a piece of luggage.