Overview
Chicagos CTA Bike & Ride program makes it easy for cyclists to combine biking with rapid transit. Whether youre commuting, running errands, or exploring the city, you can bring your bike on a train or bus, park it securely at a station, or rent a shared bike for the lastmile leg of your journey.
The initiative is part of the citys broader push to reduce car traffic, cut emissions, and create a healthier urban environment. Since its launch, Bike & Ride has grown to include more than 1,300 bike racks on trains, numerous secure bike lockers, and partnerships with bikeshare operators.
How It Works
- Bring Your Bike OnBoard Most CTA L lines (Red, Blue, Brown, Green, Orange, Purple, Pink, Yellow) allow bicycles on board during nonrushhour periods. Buses equipped with front racks accept bikes at any time.
- Use Station Racks Every rail station has a row of bike racks near the entrance. Theyre free, openended, and available on a firstcome, firstserved basis.
- Reserve a Locker For longer trips, rent a secure bike locker with a QRcode. Lockers are located at major hubs such as Belmont, Clark/Lake, and LaSalle.
- Rent a Shared Bike Via the Divvy system, you can pick up a bike at a station, ride to your destination, and dock it at a CTA station that offers Divvy docks.
- Follow the Rules Bicycles are prohibited in train cars during peak hours (79am & 46pm) on weekdays. Always fold or secure the bike while the train is moving.
Bike Racks & Lockers at Key Stations
Below is a snapshot of the most popular stations for cyclists.
- Clark/Lake 15 racks, 6 lockers, direct access to downtown office towers.
- Belmont 20 racks, 8 lockers, close to the Belmont Harbor bike trail.
- Western (Blue Line) 12 racks, 4 lockers, convenient for OHarearea commuters.
- 71st Street (Red Line) 10 racks, 5 lockers, near the historic Pullman district.
- Lake Shore (Brown Line) 8 racks, 2 lockers, perfect for lakefront cyclists.
All stations provide signage indicating the location of racks and lockers. For the most uptodate availability, check the CTA mobile app or the Bike & Ride page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring an ebike?
Yes. Ebikes are allowed on the same schedule as regular bicycles. They must be folded or secured while the train is moving.
What about folding bikes?
Folding bikes are exempt from the peakhour restriction. You can keep them unfolded and ride them on the train at any time.
How much does a locker cost?
Lockers are rented via the Ventra app for $5 per day, $30 per month, or $300 per year. Payment is made in advance, and a QR code is generated for entry.
Do I need a CTA pass to ride a bike on a train?
No. The bike does not require a fare, but you must have a valid CTA pass for yourself if you are traveling during a paid period.
Are there any safety tips?
Keep your bike upright and use the bike rack or designated area.
Lock your bike with a sturdy Ulock or chain when using racks.
Stay clear of doors and let passengers exit before moving.
Wear a helmet and use lights if riding after dark.
