Can You Bring an E-Bike on LA Metro? Rules and Tips

You can take your e-Bike on any Metro train, as long as it’s roughly the size of a regular bike. Security staff may ask to check your e-Bike, so don’t be surprised if they wave you over. Once you’re on board, stand with your bike in the designated open area. Just don’t park behind the driver’s cab in the front car, as Metro asks riders to keep that space clear.

Size is the main thing to watch, as Metro bans any bike longer than 6 feet from its trains. Three-wheeled bikes and trailers aren’t allowed either. Also, if you ride a long cargo e-Bike, I’d grab a tape measure before you head to the station.

Getting to the platform takes a bit of planning too, because bikes aren’t allowed on escalators. So you’ll be using the elevators or stairs, which is worth knowing if your e-Bike is on the heavy side. If the bike space on your train is already full, you’ll have to wait for the next one.

Buses are where things get a lot trickier for anyone hoping to bring an e-Bike along. Every Metro bus has two or more bike racks on the front. However, Metro says motorized bicycles and any bike over 55 pounds can’t go on these racks. Many e-Bikes weigh over 55 pounds anyway, so I wouldn’t count on using a bus rack.

A folding e-Bike might be your best bet, as Metro allows folded bikes with 20-inch wheels or smaller inside. You’d need to store it under a rear seat, so it doesn’t block the aisle or doors. Metro doesn’t say if this covers folding e-Bikes, though, so I’d check with the driver first.

If you plan to mix your rides with Metro trips, the type of e-Bike you ride makes a big difference. A folding e-Bike is the most flexible choice because it takes up less space, and Metro encourages folders on trains.

The Brompton Electric C Line is a great example, with 16-inch wheels and a compact fold. Brompton’s electric bikes weigh about 34 to 36 pounds, making it much easier to carry one up station stairs. Even if you don’t need a folder, a lightweight e-Bike is far easier to lift and steer through busy stations.

• Bike Hubs: secure parking where you use your own lock, with a registered TAP card or BikeLink app as your key.
• Bike Lockers: individual lockers that you open using the BikeLink app or a registered TAP card.

For an expensive e-Bike, I’d always go for secure parking over a regular bike rack on the street. If you can, it’s also worth taking your battery and any removable display with you.

If you don’t want to bring your own e-Bike at all, Metro Bike Share has Electric Metro Bikes available 24/7. They give you pedal assistance up to 17 mph, which is plenty for city riding.

Without a pass, an Electric Metro Bike costs $1 to unlock, then $1.75 for every 30 minutes. Riders with a 30-Day, 365-Day, or Reduced Fare pass can unlock them at no extra cost. Pass holders can use the Metro Bike Share app or their TAP card.

A little planning makes taking an e-Bike on Metro much easier, especially on your first trip. Here are a few tips that help:

• Check the elevators: make sure the stations at both ends of your trip have working elevators.
• Avoid the busiest times: rush-hour trains can get crowded, making it harder to find bike space.
• Be ready for inspection: security staff can check e-Bikes, so allow a little extra time.
• Lift with care: a heavy e-Bike can be tricky on stairs, so take it slowly or ask for help.
• Keep the aisles clear: stay with your bike and make sure it doesn’t block doors or other riders.

At Upway, we sell certified pre-owned e-Bikes for less than new, including folding and lightweight models. Each one comes with a one-year warranty, and we ship across the US. You can also visit LA UpCenter in Redondo Beach to see a huge collection of e-Bikes for yourself.