TAKE YOUR BIKE ALONG FOR THE RIDE
Expand your travel options by combining biking with COTA bus service throughout Central Ohio. Your bike rides for free, and loading takes just moments using the racks at the front of every bus.
WHY BIKE AND RIDE?
Extend Your Journey:
Travel farther without the fatigue of long-distance cycling
Save Money:
Reduce transportation costs by combining bike and bus travel
Beat Traffic:
Skip congested areas while staying active and reducing your carbon footprint
Weather Flexibility:
Bike when it’s nice, ride when it’s not
First and Last Mile Solution:
Easily connect to destinations beyond bus stop locations
HOW TO USE BIKE RACKS ON COTA BUSES
LOAD
- Remove all loose items from your bike
- Signal to the Operator that you need to load your bike
- Always load your bike from the curbside
LOCK
- Squeeze the handle at the center of the rack to lower it
- Place your bike into the rack’s wheel wells
- Ensure your front tire is at the same end as the support arm
- Raise and pull the support arm up and over the bike’s front tire
UNLOAD
- Before reaching your stop, exit through the front door and remind the Operator you need to unload your bike
- Raise the support arm off the front tire and lower it
- Lift your bike out of the rack
- If yours was the only bike, return the rack to the upright position
- Signal to the Operator that you’ve removed your bike
POLICIES AND GUIDELINES
Full Bike Racks: If a bike rack is full, you may ask the Operator if you can bring your bike on board. The Operator may refuse this request based on current or anticipated crowding conditions.
Bike Size Requirements:
- Maximum Weight: 55 lbs
- Maximum Tire Width: 3″
- Wheel Diameter: 16″ to 29″
Shared Mobility: E-scooters and other shared mobility devices, such as Veo and Spin, are not permitted on buses or on the bike racks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all COTA buses equipped with bike racks?
Yes, all COTA buses have bike racks mounted on the front. Each rack accommodates two bicycles on a first-come, first-served basis.
What if the bike rack is full?
If both rack positions are occupied, you may ask the Operator if you can bring your bike onboard. The Operator has discretion based on current and anticipated passenger loads.
Are electric bikes permitted on COTA bike racks?
No, electric bikes are not permitted on COTA bike racks. For safety reasons, only traditional bicycles are permitted.
Can I bring my child’s bike on the bus?
Yes, children’s bikes are welcome as long as they meet the minimum wheel diameter requirement of 16″. The child must be able to load and unload their bike independently or with your assistance.
What happens if I can’t remove my bike quickly enough at my stop?
Let the Operator know in advance that you’ll need extra time.
Can I reserve a space on the bike rack?
No, bike rack spaces cannot be reserved. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Are there accommodations for riders with adaptive cycles?
Adaptive cycles that meet the size requirements for the bike rack are welcome. For riders with mobility devices that cannot use the standard bike rack, please contact COTA Customer Service at 614-228-1776 for accommodation options.
Do I need to pay an additional fee to bring my bike?
No, there is no additional charge for bringing your bike on COTA buses. Your bike rides for free with your regular fare.
Lost & Found
If you forget your bike, call 614-228-1776 or visit our Lost & Found page for recovery information.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
For safety reasons, Operators cannot assist with loading or unloading bikes. You must be able to operate the bike rack independently. Bikes are transported at the owner’s risk. COTA is not responsible for theft or damage to bikes while on racks or at COTA facilities.
For questions or to schedule a Bike & Bus demonstration at your event, please contact Customer Service.