Commuting

​​​Bikes on CATS

The Charlotte Area Trans​it System (CATS) invites you to Rack and Ride throughout the Metrolina Area. With our bicycle racks, you can ride and bike to the nearest bus stop or park and ride location. Take your bike with you to work, school or just for fun. Each rack is located at the front of the bus and accommodates up to two bicycles. The racks are convenient, easy to use, and your bike rides free!
 
View a demonstration illustrating how to load and unload your bicycle from the bus rack.​


View Rack & Ride Demo​ 

(Note: Viewing this file requires Windows Media Player)


LOADING YOUR BIKE

  • Have your bike ready as the bus approaches. Remember to remove water bottles, bicycle pumps or other items before loading.

  • Tell the bus operator you're going to use the bike rack. Then quickly load your bike while other passengers are boarding.

  • Riders should approach the bike rack from the curbside. To lower the rack, simply squeeze the handle located in the center and pull toward you.

  • Then lift your bicycle onto the rack fitting the wheels into one of the proper wheel slots. Each wheel slot is clearly labeled for the front wheel. If you are putting your bike in the first slot position nearest the bus, the handlebars should face the curb. A bike loaded in the second slot should have the handlebars facing away from the curb.

  • Then pull the support arm straight out and place it over the front tire until it "hugs" the tire. Make sure the support arm is resting on the tire, not the fender or frame of the bike. Resting the support arm on your fender or frame could damage your bike. So please be careful.

Now you’re ready to board!

UNLOADING YOUR BIKE

  • When the bus approaches your stop, always tell the driver you will be removing your bike. Exit from the front door.

  • To release your bike, simply pull the support arm away from the wheel, drop it down and lift your bike from the wheel tray.

  • If you are the last person to unload your bike, please return the rack to its upright position.

  • Step toward the curb with your bike when moving away from the bus.

RACK RULES

  • Be prepared before the bus arrives.

  • You are responsible for the loading and unloading of your bicycle. For safety reasons, the driver cannot leave the bus to assist you.

  • Racks are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. If the rack is full, you will need to wait for the next bus. Bikes are not allowed on the inside of CATS buses.

  • If you are unable to secure your bike, please do not delay the bus.

  • All bikes 16” or larger fit easily and securely on the rack, even children’s bikes. All bikes load in exactly the same way, quickly and easily. No motorized bikes are allowed on the racks.

  • Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

  • CATS is not responsible for bicycles or personal items lost or damaged while in transit.

REMEMBER THESE TIPS FOR RIDING SAFELY.
 
TIPS FOR CYCLIST:

1. Wear a helmet.

  • Before you get on your bike, be sure to put on your helmet.  It’s the best thing you can do to reduce the risk of head injury.

2. Check your brakes and tire pressure. 

  • Always check your brakes so that you can be prepared to stop.

  • Tires should be properly inflated to the PUI listed on the tire.

3. Be aware.  

  • Always be aware of the traffic around you.

  • Check for oncoming traffic before entering any street or intersection.

4. Ride with traffic. 

  • Remember to ride in the same direction as traffic.

  • Use hand signals to indicate your intention to stop or turn.

5. Beware of blind spots. 

  • Remember to ride where they can see you.  Many large vehicles have blind spots in the front, back and on the sides, which can make it difficult for drivers to see around them.

6. Be visible.  

  • Wear brightly colored clothing, especially when riding at night. 

  • At night, use a white front light, wheel reflectors, and a red rear light or reflector.

7. On the road. 

  • The same laws that apply to motorists apply to cyclists.

  • Obey all traffic laws like stop signs, lights, and lane markings.

TIPS FOR MOTORIST:

  • Drive cautiously. 

  • Reduce speed when encountering cyclists.  Recognize situations that may be potentially dangerous and give the cyclist space.

Yield to cyclists. 

  • Bicycles are considered vehicles and should be given the appropriate right of way.

 Be considerate.

  • Look for cyclists in traffic and at intersections. 

Pass with care.  

  • Wait until road and traffic conditions allow you to safely pass.

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