MBTA Unveils Commuter Rail Bike Coach, Holds 40 bikes Options

[NickG]

From MBTA, 6/23/06:

Introduction of New Commuter Rail Bike Coach

MBTA General Manager Daniel A. Grabauskas today announced the first ever commuter rail coach equipped with 40 stationary bike racks. Renovated to accommodate the many bike enthusiasts who travel on the Gloucester commuter rail line throughout the summer, the new coach will debut July 2nd during the “Ride To The Races” 47th Annual Fitchburg Longsjo Classic.

MBTA General Manager Grabauskas directed his staff to schedule an extra passenger train after organizers of the Longsjo Classic approached the MBTA. The passenger train includes a new renovated bike coach that accommodates 42 customers and 40 bicycles.

“The timing is perfect. With the bike car ready to roll, it only makes sense to debut it for a cycling event,” said MBTA General Manager Grabauskas. “By giving people yet another reason to choose public transportation, we continue our efforts to attract more customers by making the system easier to use and a lot more convenient. This is what quality customer service is all about.”

On Sunday, July 2nd, an extra train to accommodate cyclists participating in the South Acton to Fitchburg race will depart from North Station at 10:50 a.m. arriving in South Acton at 11:45 a.m. The train will make all stops between North Station and South Acton. The train will then continue express to Fitchburg arriving at 12:20 p.m. For customers returning to North Station, a train will depart Fitchburg at 7:15 p.m., make all stops and arrive North Station at 8:40 p.m.

On Saturday, July 8th, the bike coach will be introduced on the Gloucester commuter rail line.

For photos, go here.

[KevinKorell]

Bike Coach Extended through Columbus Day

Operation of the Commuter Rail Bike Coach from North Station to North Shore locations has been extended through Columbus Day, October 8th. The round trip fare from North Station is $15.50. Our specially equipped Rockport Line bike coach accommodates 39 bikes and 42 passengers!

The Bike Coach operates on the following trains:

Outbound from Boston (Saturday and Sunday)

Trains # 1105-2105 @ 10:15 AM and Trains # 1113-2113 @ 2:15 PM

Inbound from Rockport (Saturday and Sunday)

Train # 1112-2112 @ 12:10 PM and Train # 1120-2120 @ 5:00 PM