Bikes and Boston Public Transit

While we 100% believe that bikes are the best way to get around Boston, we know sometimes it’s best to go “multi-modal” to get where you need to go. We’re big fans of the ways that the MBTA has enabled cyclists to use their services without necessarily leaving their bikes behind (or locked up out in the cold!).

Bikes on the T (Subway)

Bikes are allowed on many of the T lines that crisscross the city, though not at every time of the day.

For example, you can take bikes on the Red Line anytime except during peak commuting hours, 7-10am and 4-7pm.

The Red, Blue, Orange, and some Silver lines all allow bikes with some blacked-out hours. For more information, visit their website.

Bikes are never allowed on the Green Line or Mattapan Trolley.

Bikes on the Bus

Almost all of Boston’s local buses are equipped with bike racks, and so if you’re taking a bus, see a rack on the front, feel free to throw it on there!

The two notable exceptions are the 71 and 73 lines that go out to Watertown and Belmont: those buses do not have racks and you’re not allowed to bring bikes inside the bus.

For information on how to use the MBTA Bus bike racks, please click here.

Bikes on the Ferry

Want to go a little father afield? Take the ferry!

In Boston, depending on where you want to go, you can either take the MBTA Ferry to Charlestown, Hingham or Hull, or the Boston Harbor Cruises boats to Salem, Provincetown, and more.

In either case, plan on bringing your bike! While the Boston Harbor Cruises each have their own requirements (check their website), you can take your bike on any MBTA ferry any time.

Bikes on the Commuter Rail

Live a little farther out, but want wheels when you come downtown? Or looking for a weekend ride away from the city? Like the T, bikes are allowed on the Commuter Rail except during rush hour. Look for the bike symbol on the commuter rail timetables.