Well, without any hooks or racks or space at all for bikes, how are we supposed to bring our bikes on the train at all?
The new level-ground entry to the train car is a great step in the right direction for accommodating bikes, and the smooth ride makes standing on the train easier for everyone.
But where are we supposed to put our bikes?
The apparently afterthought (and definitely awful) accommodation for bicycles on TRAX is surprising for UTA's otherwise clearly demonstrated consideration elsewhere. Though my experience is limited, I've found that a few of the designated "bike areas" will likely be technically full, resulting in a missed train. The very nature of the problem indicates a need for more conscientious accommodations, and the problem is destined to get worse as more people realize the profound benefits of using bicycles for transportation (as is currently happening); consider that TRAX ridership has the potential to increase threefold based on efficiency versus walking (very roughly speaking), but only if the trains have the capacity. My best guess for the reasoning behind limited bicycle accommodation is monetary--they take up more space while paying the same fare. As much was evident the other day on Frontrunner, where the packed bicycle car held a relatively minor 24 bikes compared to 350 people. But then, a dedicated bicycle car on TRAX might be more sensible than on Frontrunner, since space limitations would be counterbalanced by higher throughput. Whatever the case, I really hope improved accommodations for bikes on TRAX are forthcoming.
ReplyDeleteMe too. I hate constantly filling the Trax cabin made for anyone but a cyclist, making other peds navigate around 6 other bikes to leave. I like the cycle car for Trax idea...
ReplyDeleteI'm a fan of how TriMet does it in Portland... http://trimet.org/howtoride/bikes/bikesonmax.htm
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