GO Transit increasing capacity for bicycles, introduces new rules for e-bikes on the Kitchener Line

It’s about to get easier to take your bike with you on a GO Train. But, if you happen to ride an electric bike, new regulations around e-bike transportation are also coming into effect.

Provincial transit operator Metrolinx has announced the construction of eight new coaches specifically designed to transport bicycles.

Once completed, those new coaches will service the Kitchener Line along with the weekend Lakeshore West and Niagara Falls lines, but on a seasonal basis.

This comes as demand has grown for bike transport on GO Trains, especially on the Kitchener Line. Often riders are traveling from the region to the GTA to work as food delivery couriers, and they are taking their bikes with them.

Images began popping up on social media earlier this month showing GO Train coaches, packed with bicycles. Some riders complained of overcrowding.

The new bike coaches will have enough space for 22 bikes and seating for their owners.

Metrolinx said one dedicated bike coach will be added to each trip along the Kitchener Line. It’s not clear when the new coaches will be put in place.

Starting Apr. 9, GO Transit employees will inspect all e-bikes before boarding to ensure the batteries are certified UL or CE. Most major brands already come with certified lithium-ion batteries. Some lower cost models may use other batteries which have increased potential to catch fire.

An e-bike battery ignited on a TTC subway car on New Year’s Eve. The subway station was evacuated and the bike owner was treated for injuries.

A tamper-proof sticker will be applied after the battery passes inspection.

Metrolinx said staff will be on hand to help riders navigate the new regulations.