LAist: Dear LAist, Bike Racks + Bus = Me Scared

Sevrenn

Tue, 13 May 2008 08:42:18 -0800

I've heard that Electra Townies are either just a smidge too long or just barely fit on racks as well. Anyone have any experience loading a Townie?

Ebike user

Wed, 06 Jun 2007 11:10:57 -0800

Imagine my dismay when I tried to load my e-bike, and it was too long for the back wheel to fit in the bike rack. The problem could be solved with a "U" brace at the back of the current backwheel holder. And I wish that the Dash buses had bike racks as well. Especially in the rain.

Mark Panitz

Wed, 06 Jun 2007 10:15:25 -0800

I have used the bike racks over 300 time in one year its really easy to use, just make sure the arm whats known as J hook is over the front wheel of your bike, then board the bus, try to keep an eye on the bike when you get to your stop just tell the driver that you will be getting your bike off the rack, (some cyclists also tell the driver that they are going to use the rack) the only problem is that sometimes you will find both racks already in use, and you then you have to wait for the next bus...

Mooju

Sat, 02 Jun 2007 20:06:54 -0800

I've got a technique to open the rack. I walk the bike out to the front of the bus, and stop with me between the bike and the rack, leaving enough room for the rack in its open position. Then I lean the bike on my hip, chain side away from me, while I reach over and open the rack. Then I turn around and lift the bike by the bar that runs from the crank to the back hub, using my other hand to guide the bike by the front of top tube. Then I swing it around and put the back tire in the rack first. I took me a while to learn and practice this, but it was worth it to not feel like I was keeping a busload of people from their destinations. One more thing . . . be nice to the rack or the drivers will yell at you. Don't let the rack fall open, and don't slam it shut.

SoapBoxLA

Sat, 02 Jun 2007 15:22:03 -0800

The first time is very intimidating. The crowd is watching, the bus driver has that look, the bike doesn't feel secure... After a few trips, I feel like a pro but I often forget the most important element in loading my bike on the bus rack, letting the driver know I'm about to step in front of the bus to load my bike! Even the Metro forgot to mention it. The steps should be 1) let the driver know you intend to step out and load your bike (the "yo!") 2) get an acknowledgement from the driver (the "nod") then the three loading steps.