A supervised trial to test whether bikes and non-standatd cycles can be taken safely on Manchester Metrolink has launched. This comes after agreement by the Bee Network Committee in January and is being described as a “guided pilot” with only invited participants able to bring their bikes onto the trams with supervision of a Keolis Amey Metrolink member of staff.
As things stand at the moment, Metrolink Conditions of Carriage only allow folded bikes in bags on the trams. Whilst this will not be changing as part of this pilot, invited participants will be able to take their bikes on board under strict test conditions on off-peak services only.
As well as standard bikes it will also look at the carriage of adapted bikes used as mobility aids, scooters and a broader range of mobility scooters that aren’t currently permitted.
The pilot started on 29th February and will continue for four to six weeks.
Dame Sarah Storey, Active Travel Commissioner, said: “I would like to thank Transport for Greater Manchester for progressing with the bikes on trams trial and I am looking forward to observing the study myself in the coming weeks.
“Not only will researchers carry out their study on a range of Metrolink lines and services, they will also trial different types of cycles, including non-standard ones used as mobility aids.
“A follow up report on how it’s gone will be brought to the Bee Network Committee this summer and I will be interested to read their analysis and learn more about how volunteers and tram users have found the experience.”
TfGM have recruited volunteers from cycle groups in Greater Manchester, including those who have standard and adapted bikes.
Feedback from all passengers will be reviewed at the end of the pilot before a report is presented to the Bee Network at the end of this year with a recommendation of whether bikes should be carried on board permanently.