GO Transit enforcing number of e-bikes on trains (but some say it’s not enough)

Posted on February 29, 2024

GO Transit is apparently using security to control the number of people with bikes boarding on some trains, in an attempt to stem the influx of e-bikes on GO trains that has had commuters worried.

In a post to X, a user thanks the transit agency for enforcing the two-bike per coach limit at Bloor GO.

“Thank you @GOtransit for taking in the concerns and providing security to control the number of ebikes boarding the Kitchener line. Security personnel at Bloor GO ensured that the 2 bike per coach limit was strictly enforced. This made for a safer and more comfortable trip.”

In recent weeks, reports from commuters travelling on GO trains into downtown Toronto have surfaced, showing a trend of e-bike food couriers overwhelming train cars designated for regular bicycles, leading to potential safety hazards due to overcrowding.

According to GO Transit, a division of Metrolinx, bicycles (including traditional bicycle-style e-bikes) are allowed on GO trains, except during weekday rush hour service in peak directions (between 6:30 am and 9:30 am on weekdays and 3:30 pm and 6:30 pm on weekdays).

Still, some are saying that using security to enforce the rules isn’t a long-term solution and that the real problem is delaying people who use the service to get to and from work with their bikes.

“Completely understand your specific concern @not_taylorx but the underlined issue of creating an equitable means for individuals to get to and from work hasn’t been addressed.  @Metrolinx  we need to discuss how we move ALL people safely across the @GOtransit  system.”

Others highlighted how e-bikes in the GTA are used to expand mobility options within marginalized communities, and enforcement only hurts them.

“Cheering on security keeping people off trains, saying “they can just grab the next,” especially when these are virtually all marginalized immigrants of colour just trying to make ends meet is a… real thing quick pivot from being a transit advocate into something else,” one user posted.

In a statement, Metrolinx noted that this issue has been ongoing since early last year.

“We have seen an increase in demand for bicycle transport on the GO network especially on the Kitchener line, since early 2023 and continue to monitor travel capacity and patterns closely.”