• Cyclists should prominently display bike destination tags to indicate where they are getting off the train. 

• Bike tags help cyclists stack bikes in an organized manner by destination. 

• Riders can request a tag from the conductor or create one (PDF) and attach it to their bike in a place that can be easily seen by others. 

Bike Destination Tag Example

General

• The conductor, at their discretion, may decline transportation or revise the handling of bicycles/scooters due to crowded trains, or other considerations. 
• Customers with bicycles must lift and maneuver their own bicycle onboard the train without causing a hazard to other passengers. Conductors may not assist with bicycles onboard the train. 
• Bikes/scooters are not allowed to be locked to the train. 
• There is no additional charge to bring a bicycle/scooter on board. 

Platform

• For safety reasons, bicycles/scooters cannot be taken on escalators and must not be ridden in station buildings, on platforms or ramps.

Loading/Unloading

• Customers with bikes must be able to load and unload their bikes, without assistance.
• Passengers with bicycles board first on bike cars. 
• In order to reduce delays, the first cyclists boarding should move in as far as possible so other customers with bicycles have space to board the train.
• Stack bikes by destination so everyone has access when unloading their bike.

Bicycle Types

• Bicycle stalls vary in length. All bicycles must fit in designated space (71”) without protruding into the aisle.
• Gas-powered, tandem or three-wheel bicycles are not allowed.
• Training wheels, detachable or collapsible trailers or large, bulky attachments which expand bicycle width, such as saddlebags, baskets, backpacks or briefcases, are not allowed.
• Bicycles must have no protrusions which could cause injury or damage.
• Bicycles must be kept clean and free of excessive dirt and grease.

Folding Bikes

• Folding bikes are allowed on any train car as long as they are no wider than 32 inches at the widest point.
• Folding bikes must be in the folded position prior to boarding and must remain under the control of the owner while on board.
• Folding bikes must be able to be stored under the seat.
• Folding bikes may not be placed on seats and must not block aisles, stairs or vestibules.
• Folding bikes may not be stored in the space reserved for passengers wheelchairs.
• Folding bikes that are not in the bike rack must remain folded until the passenger has fully left the train.

Note: Caltrain may alter the rules/guidelines at any time, as necessary.

Cyclists are legally responsible for any damage to the train's equipment, other bikes and for any injury to other passengers or train personnel as a result of the cyclist's negligence. 

Caltrain is not responsible for any theft or damage to bicycles while on the train. 

Caltrain currently has two types of diesel trains:

• Electric trains have two bike cars and are limited to 36 bikes per bike car (72 bikes total per train)

• Bombardier trains (South County service) are equipped with one bike car. 

If you have been "bumped" from a train (not allowed onboard due to overcapacity), please use the online form below.