BIKING RULES

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CTA Train Rules

Bicycles are permitted on the 'L' (CTA trains) every weekday except from 7 am to 9 am and 4 pm to 6 pm (with certain exceptions where crowding is anticipated). On Saturdays, Sundays and holidays (except when prohibited), bicycles are allowed on trains all day. No extra charge.

 CTA Bus Rules

All CTA buses are equipped with bike racks. No extra charge.

 Metra Train Rules

Metra permits bicycles on all weekday trains arriving in Chicago after 9:30 A.M. and leaving Chicago before 3:00 P.M. and after 7:00 P.M., and on all weekend trains except for Taste of Chicago, Lollapalooza, and the Air & Water Show. No extra charge.

 

LOCAL RESOURCES

Bike Shops

South: Dan's 6715 Roosevelt, Berwyn 708-484-5000
Central: Bike Fix 310 Lake St, Oak Park 708-445-8760
Central: Element Cyclesport 1101 Chicago Avenue 708-948-7579
North: Barnard's 6109 W North Ave, Oak Park 708-524-2660

 Biking Advocacy, Education, Networking & Events

  • Active Transportation Alliance
    • The mission of Active Transportation Alliance is to make bicycling, walking and public transit so safe, convenient and fun that we will achieve a significant shift from environmentally harmful, sedentary travel to clean, active travel. We advocate for transportation that encourages and promotes safety, physical activity, health, recreation, social interaction, equity, environmental stewardship and resource conservation.
    • Visit here: www.activetrans.org
  • League of Illinois Bicyclist
    • Statewide advocate for all Illinois bicyclists, promoting bicycle access, education, and safety.
    • Visit here: www.bikelib.org
  • Oak Park Cycle Club
    • Proud to be the only not-for-profit club in Oak Park devoted to cycling and fostering mutual respect between all who share our suburban streets.
    • Visit here: www.oakparkcycleclub.org/
  • The Chainlink
    • The Chainlink is the one-stop Chicagoland resource for connecting cyclists to share info on bikes, routes, rides, and events.
    • Visit here: www.thechainlink.org/

 

BIKING FAQ's

What kind of lock should I get?

Depends where you park and for how long. No lock is perfect. “U” locks are effective and convenient. Add a cable to secure the wheels in high-risk areas.

 

What can I do to be safe?

Try to be as visible as possible (lights, bright-colored clothing, white helmet), but pretend you are invisible. Never trust a car. Avoid car doors! Avoid busy, fast roads. There are many quiet side streets in Oak Park that will take you nearly anywhere you want to go. Use hand signals so that drivers know your intentions.

 

Is the old bike in my garage adequate?

Maybe. Pump up the tires and take it for a ride around the block. Check the brakes and the gear shifters. If in doubt, take it in for a tune-up ($80).

 

How can I pick a safe and simple route?

Consult the Oak Park Bicycle Plan on the Village website or contact Karl Lauger ccdkeparnell@sbcglobal.net 708.265.4011 or Bill Watson billwatson58@yahoo.com 708.997.5524 for advice.