RSSBrompton Bus Travel is Great Way to Explore
May 04
Brompton folding bikes Brompton bike, Brompton Bus Travel, Brompton folding bike, compact travel bike, folding bike, folding travel bike 4 Comments
How many times have you traveled by bus to a new city and wished you had your bike? With some simple planning, Brompton bus travel just might be the best way to ride!
Before starting your Brompton and bus travel, be sure to look up the luggage policies for the bus line you are taking. Most bus lines do not charge extra for bicycles, even full size bikes, but they usually require that you bike at least be in a sturdy bag. The lightweight Brompton Cover and bag is perfect for bus travel. Once there, fold up your Brompton bike, cover your bike and head to the ticket counter!
My Brompton folding bike at the bus station
When buying your bus ticket it’s best to mention that you have a bicycle with you. Some bus lines require you to tag your luggage and others don’t. Ask if your luggage needs a tag. Also, as you do more bus travel, you might encounter ticket agents that may try to charge you extra for the bike. Simply remind them nicely of the policies on their website. Speak to a manager if they insist they need to charge you extra.
While waiting to board the bus, locate a bus employee and ask if your luggage needs a tag. This is to make double-sure that you can take your Brompton folding bike on the bus. The last thing you want to encounter when handing your ticket to the bus driver is being told you have to go back to the ticket counter for a luggage tag.
As your boarding the bus, roll your Brompton folding bicycle to the baggage handler. I usually make eye contact with this person, offer a pleasant greeting, and then tell them, “this is a bicycle.” I then hand the bicycle to them, and watch them put it on the bus. I’ve done this for many miles of bus travel and I’ve never seen a baggage handler throw or mistreat my bike. Always say “thank you” when dealing with anyone who is handling your folding bike.
Once you arrive at your destination, you’re ready to begin the second half of your Brompton bus travel adventure! Make your way to the side of the bus to retrieve your bike. If you won’t get in the way, point out your luggage to the baggage handler and mention it’s a bike. Again, this just might save your Brompton from a ding or two! Some bus lines don’t have baggage handlers, so you’re free to get your bike yourself. Watch your head, though; I’ve bumped my noggin a few times on the low ceiling in the luggage compartment.
As the passengers get off the bus, bus line employees scurry about and family and friends reunite with their loved ones, find a quiet place to unfold your Brompton. Maybe a curb around the corner, or a few steps away from the main entrance. Do your best to just get out of the way and not bump into anyone with you bike.
Now you can remove the Brompton Cover, unfold your bike, place the cover back in its bag, and get ready to ride. Be very aware of everything around you, though. Stay clear of any bus lanes, and watch out for cars speeding into and out of the parking lot. The bus station can be a dangerous place for a bicycle, so use caution.
Congratulations! You just rode to a transit hub, hopped on a bus and arrived in a new town with your folding bike. I’ve been doing full sized bike and bus travel for awhile now, but Brompton bus travel is by far the best way to get around.
Seth has is own blog: TheBikeNerd.com
