Bikes on Metra: Rules, Bike Cars and What to Expect

Metra is the regional rail option for cyclists. Since February 2024 any train takes a bike, with no ban at rush hour and no charge.^2,3 The rules that remain are about space, safety and who gets priority.

The policy in short

Bikes and scooters are permitted on all trains. They go either in the priority seating area of an accessible car or in spaces marked for bikes on cars with a bike logo. There is no charge.^1,3

The history explains the current ease. Bikes were allowed in the accessible seating area from 2005, but for most of that time only on non-rush trains.³ During the pandemic Metra relaxed the limit, and it made that change permanent effective February 1, 2024.³

Ridership followed. A record 338,000 bikes rode Metra in 2024.²

Where your bike goes

Accessible cars. The priority seating area of every accessible car can hold bikes while no rider with a disability needs the space. An accessible diesel car takes up to five bikes or scooters. A Metra Electric car takes two, and all Electric cars are accessible. An ADA symbol outside the car marks it. Secure the bike to the lower rail of a folding seat with a long bungee cord or similar device that you bring.¹

Bike cars. Metra has installed bike racks on about 90 cars, marked by a bike logo on the exterior. Each rack holds two to four bikes and takes scooters as well. Secure the bike with the built-in strap or your own strap or lock. Some trains run bike cars with multiple racks, painted blue on the outside.¹

Folding bikes. A folding bike or scooter may go in any car and stay with you at your seat, provided it is small enough to fit between the legs of a seated rider.¹

Priority and refusals

Space is first come, first served. Riders with disabilities have priority in the accessible spaces.¹

If an accessible space is needed, you may be required to leave the train. Metra says it will try to accommodate you elsewhere on the train first.¹ Crews can refuse a bike if every space is filled or accessible seating is needed.¹

On certain weekends of higher-than-normal ridership, such as St. Patrick’s Day or Lollapalooza, Metra may warn cyclists that bikes may not fit.¹ Plan a second option on those days. If you are refused, Metra takes reports through its Contact Us form under “Bicycle Denied Boarding.”¹

Rules for your bike and for you

Metra’s onboard page, as captured in July 2026, sets these rules.¹

Rule	What Metra requires
Size	No longer than 80 in or wider than 30 in1
Age	16 or older alone; under 16 with an adult1
Condition	Clean, free of dirt and grease1
Loading	Load and unload in a single trip1
Help	Crews are not required to assist, and the wheelchair lift is off limits1
Platform	Walk the bike. No riding on platforms1
Aisles	Keep clear; stay in the vicinity of your bike1
Evacuation	Leave the bike on the train, clear of aisles and doors1
Gas-powered	Prohibited1

E-bikes

E-bikes are allowed. Metra’s amendment of October 9, 2025 added two limits.² First, you must carry the bike on and off the train yourself, without using its motor to propel it aboard.^1,2 Second, onboard outlets may not charge e-bikes or any other micromobility device.^1,2

Metra said the change answered large, heavy e-bikes that needed help from a second person or a motor to get aboard, a risk of injury and delay.²

Planning the trip

• Look for the bike logo on the car’s exterior; those cars have dedicated racks.¹
• Carry your own bungee for the accessible area.¹
• Avoid event weekends if you cannot risk a refusal.¹
• Divvy is available at Metra stations in Chicago and neighboring municipalities, a way to cover the last mile without a bike on board.¹

For the city side of the trip, read bikes on CTA trains. South Shore and Pace service follow different rules, covered in bikes on Pace and South Shore. More commuting guides sit in the commuting hub, starting with the Chicago bike commuting guide.