The Metro ...
Thread started by
OsnapsonJC at 12.29.09 - 9:03 am
So I guess its not okay for people to bring bikes on the train ... So I'm taking the Redline to work like I have done for the last ..wow almost 3 years... and I have my bike in the nice section labeled with the bike, baby stroller and wheelchair.....So this guy gets on the train and stands right next to my front wheel ... No biggie ... He then proceeds to lean and constantly and purposely nudge my bike ... I let it go the first 3 times but the 4th time was a WTF kind of nudge and I asked him politely " can you please watch out for my bike" He looks at me flashes his metro badge and says " Thats not allowed on the train anyway" ... Of course I laughed and the guy threatens to call the sheriff on me .. He was like thats not allowed because it poses a safety threat ...... anyone else hear anything about this?
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wait, those sections have that bike label on there
what gives?
did you point that out to him? whatd he say?
KiMS112.29.09 - 9:05 am
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from what I understand, there are certain hours posted on the MTLA site that they say that you can't bring them on the metro, but they never usually follow that (or rarely have in my experience)...but that *may* be what he was talking about...
sinaphile12.29.09 - 9:08 am
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I pointed at the sign ... what makes it awkward is that the train wasn't packed or anything ... he made the choice to stand next to me ... I pass the sheriffs all the time and they wave to me every single day with bike ....
OsnapsonJC12.29.09 - 9:44 am
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You should have got his name and badge number.
He is not only wrong, but he should be fired.
hockeyjockey12.29.09 - 10:06 am
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They were trying to make a rule that only 2 bikes are allowed per car on the Goldline, however some people have told me that that didn't pass. However, when a bunch of us on Mom Ridaz Tuesday and Taco Tuesday took the Goldline, about 7 sheriffs came to prevent us from having more than 4 people per train. There seems to be a lot of grey area with bikes on trains.....
braydon responding to a
comment by OsnapsonJC
12.29.09 - 10:07 am
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3 things a cyclist should have at all times.
1 pencil
2 small notebook
3 camera with video and sound recording function and neck strap
IF you're on public property (including Metro):
When confronted by anyone claiming authority over you or your bike, pull out camera, hang it around your neck and start recording with sound recording turned on. Then pull out your pencil and notebook and say:
"Excuse me, before you continue, What is your name,what agency are you from, who is your supervisor?"
Then write down everything they say. Ask questions like "What section of the vehicle code are you referencing?" or "Metro's website clearly states bikes are allowed, what is your source for this contradictory rule?"
IF you're not on public property,you may not have permission to videotape the encounter.
BE POLITE, BE COURTEOUS, BE CALM but also BE CONFIDENT, BE ASSERTIVE, BE INFORMED
alexdc12.29.09 - 10:59 am
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Yes, technically bikes aren't allowed on the train during "peak hours" but it's the stupidest regulation possible. Bikes bridges transpo gaps that public transpo does not provide for. I've never seen this rule enforced, and quite frankly, if they actually tried to kick a cyclist off the train during peak hours hell raising would be in order.
kryxtanicole responding to a
comment by alexdc
12.29.09 - 11:07 am
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hell raising... indeed
braydon responding to a
comment by kryxtanicole
12.29.09 - 11:10 am
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just record discretely when not on public property
666 responding to a
comment by alexdc
12.29.09 - 11:24 am
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But as a train rider ... when have you ever seen this even close to enforced? I mean honestly I don't know if dude was power tripping or what .... I find it funny he flashed out his employee I.D like I was going to run off the train .... Im still going to get on the train ...
OsnapsonJC responding to a
comment by kryxtanicole
12.29.09 - 11:58 am
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i got a folding bike just for taking on the blue line, since i saw that they had a "peak hours" rule. i've never seen it enforced on the blue line, but i know other train services in other parts (BART, Caltrain) do enforce bike policies rather strictly.
tfunk40812.29.09 - 1:36 pm
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Whoa, "While on a train, you must hold onto the bike and kickstand must always be up." I just cram mine in the corner of the bike/wheelchair area and leave it. hahaah. But it's never during peak hours.
toweliesbong12.29.09 - 1:51 pm
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I sit next to it on the ground in the corner ...... or stand .. or hold it like im giving it a hug (if a lot of people are on the train)... ...
OsnapsonJC responding to a
comment by toweliesbong
12.29.09 - 2:07 pm
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He then proceeds to lean and constantly and purposely nudge my bike ... I let it go the first 3 times but the 4th time was a WTF kind of nudge and I asked him politely " can you please watch out for my bike" He looks at me flashes his metro badge.
Sounds like a perv rubbing his crotch against your bike and then flashing you.
marino12.29.09 - 3:26 pm
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I am always nervous that someone will give me guff about my bike on the Metro but it has never happened.
I often try to get on the Orange Line and the rack is already full. They won't let you bring your bike inside the bus unless it is the last bus of the night and it isn't very crowded.
outerspace12.29.09 - 3:42 pm
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See I dont think that was the case... I really think this guy wanted to seem cool ..
OsnapsonJC responding to a
comment by Joe Borfo
12.29.09 - 4:45 pm
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Not racial profiling. Bicycle profiling.
Harassment of bicyclist based on the fact that you are a bicyclist.
Bike riders are the new Second-Class citizens.
The good news is, it is not based on the color of your skin.
The bad news is, it is based on what you put between your legs.
hockeyjockey responding to a
comment by OsnapsonJC
12.29.09 - 5:16 pm
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california law requires bikes to have subway access check bicyclela.org
louisiana responding to a
comment by OsnapsonJC
12.29.09 - 5:44 pm
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yet this is la
Metro Rail Bike Hours
Bikes are allowed to board trains EXCEPT for the following times and directions:
Weekdays: 6:30 - 8:30 am
Metro Blue Line Long Beach to 7th/Metro
Metro Green Line Norwalk to Marine
Metro Red Line Union Station - Wilshire/Vermont (both directions)
Metro Gold Line Union Station - Sierra Madre Villa (both directions)
Weekdays: 4:30 - 6:30 pm
Metro Blue Line 7th/Metro to Long Beach
Metro Green Line Marine to Norwalk
Metro Red Line Union Station - Wilshire/Vermont (both directions)
Weekends and Holidays
There are no restrictions during Weekends and Holidays.
Metro Bike Rules:
Your bike must not block the doorway of the train operator.
Allow other passengers to exit and enter the train first.
You must use elevators or stairs - not escalators - and always walk your bike.
You cannot ride a bike or other wheeled device on the platform or in the station; they must always be walked.
Tandem or 3-wheeled bikes are not allowed.
If an arriving train is crowded, you must wait for a train with available room.
Fuel-powered vehicles are never allowed on trains.
While on a train, you must hold onto the bike and the kickstand must always be up.
Keep your bike as clean as possible and take care not to brush your bike against others.
Bicyclists under 14 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
In an evacuation, leave your bike on the train; do not let it block aisles or doors.
Failure to obey rules may result in you receiving a citation.
louisiana12.29.09 - 5:46 pm
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Bicyclists under 14 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
can you belive it!!!!!!!
louisiana12.29.09 - 5:46 pm
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Did you just discover the joys of the internet ...?
OsnapsonJC responding to a
comment by louisiana
12.29.09 - 5:51 pm
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Kind of sad when the guy driving the bucket is considered to sit higher on the food chain than those that pedal and make more money than the bucket-driver ever will.
bentstrider responding to a
comment by hockeyjockey
12.29.09 - 5:51 pm
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Yikes!
I've been using escalators with my bike exclusively for over 3 years, and nobody has said boo to me. Well, now I know.
Also, while it is written that there are times when bikes are not allowed, Michelle Mowry has stated at a public meeting I attended, that in fact, you can take your bike on any train at any time, just follow the other rules (like not using the escalator?) and don't make a nuisance of your bike.
So its a gray area, and until someone tells me otherwise, I'll get on the train when I need to get on the train and hope for the best.
Creative Thing responding to a
comment by louisiana
12.29.09 - 5:55 pm
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whats funny about the certain time thing is that today.. i kid you not ... I got on the train when it was packed tonight ... watched everyone get off passed 2 sheriffs getting on the train ... passed 2 at Hollywood/highland/ .. then got off and walked passed 2 more ... I read all this earlier today ... I was surprised not one signal person said a word ...
OsnapsonJC responding to a
comment by Creative Thing
12.29.09 - 5:59 pm
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yikes is right.i would get on by myself at 14 all the time
louisiana responding to a
comment by Creative Thing
12.29.09 - 6:00 pm
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City of Los Angeles
Bicycle Advisory Committee Minutes
August 4, 2009
http://www.bicyclela.org/bac/Aug09/BACMinutes0809.pdf
12. Metro Bikes-on-Rail Policy - Hector Rodriguez Metro Administration and
Financial Service Manager- Hector reported on the current policy that limits
bicycles on Metro trains during peak hours. This is increasingly becoming a
sensitive issue as Metro ridership grows. In general there are various
considerations for Metro regarding bicycles on trains which include the limited
space in trains, different dimensions between light rail trains vs. subway trains
and missing signage to identify ideal boarding location for bicyclists on subway.
There are three points to stress: 1) Remove peak hour restrictions for bicycles, 2)
Designate Bicycle locations on trains 3) Increase signage on trains and
platforms. The Metro legal department is working on the legal opinion of risk for
bikes, strollers, and baggage on board Metro Trains. Metro is working with
several stakeholders to create a unified plan for bicycles and rail policy which
includes: Metro Bicycle Department, Metro Marketing Department, Metro
Planning, Metro Safety Division, LACBC and bicyclists at large. He also reported
that there is a lack statistical data available on bicycle ridership aboard Metro, but
hopes that new Transportation Census in the Fall will provide more information.
Hector also explained current litigation that is taking place with bicycles as some
cyclists leave bicycles unattended and bicycles become projectiles. Hector
commented that even though a census will be conducted the figures may not
show entire picture and recommends working together with several groups to find a policy that works for everyone. Hector mentioned that Metro can work on
better enforcement of current policies such as keeping the doorways clear,
creating a better education campaign for all riders and increasing signage for
bicycles to board trains.
BAC motion: The BAC supports the removal of Peak Hour bicycle restrictions
aboard Metro trains. The BAC recommends and supports proper signage on
Metro rail cars to indicate bicycle entrance. The BAC recommends that BAC
members be added to and participate in the Metro Unified Plan for Bicycle and
Rail Policy. Motion is passed unanimously.
Public comment:
Two public comments:
1) noting that removing peak hour restrictions on trains would be a big
improvement. Pointed out that in Denver the policy allows for unlimited bicycles
depending on train capacity. He also suggested that Metro create policy that
allowed a minimum number of bicycles if the bus/train is crowded.
2) noting there are no restrictions on other users; why are there restrictions on
bicycles?
braydon12.30.09 - 1:25 am
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I always use the elevators on that thing, especially when I've got the 40 pounder on the rack and things are a little top heavy.
Last thing I need is shit to accidentally slip off and start a man-alanche!!
bentstrider responding to a
comment by Creative Thing
12.30.09 - 1:31 am
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Where does it say subways are required to provide bicycle access? I don't see it...
outerspace responding to a
comment by louisiana
12.30.09 - 1:43 am
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As of OCTOBER 13, 2009, still seems in limbo...
braydon12.30.09 - 1:45 am
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I have never been treated with anything but respect when bringing my bike along with me on the Red Line. It is sometimes a pleasant conversation starter. However, it is always in the back of my mind that these laws and laws like them will get me in trouble eventually. When Officer Gylfie is feeling a power trip coming on and sees me getting on a subway with two other cyclists, he is going to ticket me. County needs money, and he needs high marks on his monthly review.
The rules are laid out with the explanation that they are provided for the safety of Metro passengers. This is what gives me the confidence to call shenanigans. If it was a safety issue, the rule could simply read something roughly like this:
"Bikes are allowed on Metro light and heavy rail systems provided that their owners maintain a grip on their bikes at all times, to ensure that bicycles do not cause injury or damage by moving or falling unexpectedly during transit. Unattended bicycles are subject to impound and the owners of unattended bicycles are subject to a fine." Or the like.
I have no faith in the government or any agent thereof to do what is right, or even to listen to what we have to say, even if only to mock us for trying to guide them in a responsible or reasonable direction. They do what they want, when they want, how they want, regardless of what makes sense, or what a normal, sensible person would do. I don't know why, but it seems like as soon as someone goes on the public payroll they immediately forfeit all intelligence, common sense, and compassion. This is a disturbing pattern.
I AIN'T BITTER THOUGH. NOPE.
outerspace12.30.09 - 2:09 am
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Not too long ago one of the metro drives got all crazy and wouldnt start the train until my friends got out of the train and went to the other one. The train was empty no one else was riding. Its the first time we had ever been told we couldnt all ride in the same car. Weve had sheriffs in the same car see us ride 4+ bikes per train and not a word was said.
john.1312.30.09 - 10:10 am
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# d
893. The department shall disburse the money from the Bicycle
Transportation Account pursuant to Section 891.4 for projects that
improve the safety and convenience of bicycle commuters, including,
but not limited to, any of the following:
(a) New bikeways serving major transportation corridors.
(b) New bikeways removing travel barriers to potential bicycle
commuters.
(c) Secure bicycle parking at employment centers, park-and-ride
lots, rail and transit terminals, and ferry docks and landings.
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!(d) Bicycle-carrying facilities on public transit vehicles. !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(e) Installation of traffic control devices to improve the safety
and efficiency of bicycle travel.
(f) Elimination of hazardous conditions on existing bikeways.
(g) Planning.
(h) Improvement and maintenance of bikeways.
In recommending projects to be funded, due consideration shall be
given to the relative cost effectiveness of proposed projects.
louisiana responding to a
comment by outerspace
12.30.09 - 3:20 pm
reply
Just took this photo at Union Station. They must have put this up in the last day or so.
Do you see bicycles? Also if I went shopping and had a six pack of beer, does that mean I can't ride the train?
hockeyjockey12.31.09 - 1:45 pm
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I think this sign is targeted towards those going to camp out at the Rose Parade. They have been promoting the gold line all week.
Foldie responding to a
comment by hockeyjockey
12.31.09 - 1:56 pm
reply
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