Public Transit
As part of their mandate, the BC authorities provide a growing number of services to cyclists. The integration of bicycles into existing and planned transit systems is a highly effective way to expand the range of travel possible on two wheels. These inter-modal links can help fill the gaps on certain trips made by bike and should be explored by cyclists when planning routes and making transportation decisions.
Ferries
British Columbia is defined by its mountains and by its bodies of water. While you still have to lug yourself up the mountains, BC Ferries can help you get across the bodies of water. For schedules, call BC Ferries at (888) 223-3779 or check out their website at www.bcferries.com.
West Coast Express
The commuter rail service between Vancouver and Mission, the West Coast Express, carries bicycles. Bike passes are $1.00 a day or $17.00 for 28 days in addition to your passenger ticket, and is run on a first come first serve basis. Trains can carry from 8 to 12 bikes depending on the size of the train and the number of passengers (2 bikes fi t on each car). Daily bike passes may be purchased from the ticket vending machines at the station. For those who would rather leave their bike at the station, bicycle racks, and often secured enclosed bicycle lockers, are available. For more information, contact (604) 488-8906 or visit their webpage about Bikes on Transit.
Seabus & SkyTrain
In the Lower Mainland, bicycles are allowed on the SeaBus at all times for no extra charge. Bicycles are now allowed on SkyTrain during all hours except during peak hours in the peak direction, subject to available space. See Bikes on Transit for details of peak hours. There is no additional cost for bike on SkyTrain. There is a maximum of 2 bikes per car. Bicycles are permitted to load and unload at all SkyTrain stations except Metrotown. Station access is available by elevator. Bicycles are not allowed on any station escalator and must be carried if using the stairs.
Bike lockers are available in the Lower Mainland and in Victoria.
Some bus stops do not allow loading of bicycles, especially in downtown cores, due to space limitations.
Check your local transit provider’s website for information about bikes, including racks and storage.
Bike Lockers
In the Lower Mainland, bike lockers are available at various SkyTrain stations and bus exchanges. TransLink rents the lockers for 3-month periods at a cost of $30, with a $30 key deposit. For information on locker rental visit their Bike Parking webpage. In Victoria, bike lockers are available at the McTavish Road Park and Ride (near Airport), the Western Exchange Park and Ride (Juan de Fuca) in Colwood and the Langford Exchange/Station Avenue. Lockers are $10.00 monthly and rentals are administered by the Greater Victoria Cycling Coalition. For more information email info@gvcc.bc.ca, or visit their website http://gvcc.bc.ca/store. In Sooke, lockers are available at the Sooke Park & Ride. Contact the Juan de Fuca Cycling Coalition at 250-664-6492 or jdfcycle@ gmail.com for more information.
Bus Bike Racks
An increasing number of cities in BC have buses equipped with bicycle racks. At present, the service is offered on all buses in Kelowna, Nelson, Kamloops, Kitimat, Nanaimo, Whister, Parksville/Qualicum Beach, Penticton, West Vancouver, all TransLink services in MetroVancouver and on specific routes in Victoria. Bicycles travel free with a passenger fare. Stops that can load bikes are identified by a green bicycle logo. For routes, times, and loading stops in the Lower Mainland area visit the TransLink website. For other areas in BC, see the BC Transit webpage on bike racks. In the Lower Mainland, bicycles are allowed on the SeaBus at all times for no extra charge.