As vaccination rates increase and transit ridership rebounds, more customers are looking to more mobility vehicles onboard GO and UP Express vehicles.

That’s why Metrolinx is introducing a new policy that clarifies which e-bikes and e-scooters are allowed onboard transit vehicles and in stations.

E-bikes and e-scooters are allowed on GO trains and buses but are not allowed on UP Express.

The agency is hoping that by allowing different vehicles onboard GO vehicles, riders will have more sustainable options to travel to and from transit stations. However, some exceptions apply to the policy to ensure customer safety.

How does the policy work?

• When travelling via GO bus, customers will have to secure e-bikes to the bicycle rack on the front of the bus. Only e-bikes with a maximum weight of 25kg can be carried in the bicycle rack. E-bikes that can be folded will be permitted on double-decker busses.
  
• Riders cannot bring e-bikes onto trains arriving at Union Station during peak hours between 6:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. or on trains leaving Union Station between 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. This is in line with GO’s bicycle policy.
  
• Bike decals on GO train coaches indicate where to board with an e-bike or e-scooter.
  
• Riders are prohibited from storing their vehicle on the accessible coach. Customers are also asked not to charge their bikes while aboard GO trains.
  
• Like regular bicycles, e-bikes are not permitted on UP Express trains at any time due to the limited storage space available. Storage is currently prioritized for people using wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
  
• E-bikes that resemble mopeds, motor scooters, or motorcycles cannot be brought onboard GO trains or buses. Customers are asked to park them in motorcycle or regular vehicle parking spots. 

The agency is also allowing e-scooters on its services but also reminding customers to follow all provincial and local laws surrounding electric mobility devices, as Metrolinx’s policy is not is intended to override provincial laws or bylaws.

Most importantly, Metrolinx is taking every step to ensure rider safety is a top priority.

That includes mandatory masks – even if passengers are fully vaccinated. There are also clear plastic barriers between seats on trains and busses, and hand sanitizer dispensers on vehicles and in stations.

Transit ridership continues to return, and Metrolinx’s new e-bike policy is intended to make everyone’s return a little smoother.