Bicycle Racks

"We realize that many people don't live within walking distance of a bus route, so being able to put their bike on a bus gives them a way to utilize public transit," said Pace Executive Director T.J. Ross.

Ross initiated the bike-rack program in June 2000 after successfully implementing such a project at the Phoenix Transit System in Arizona, where he worked for more than 20 years before coming to Pace in 1998. Ross knew the racks could also become popular in the Chicago area if given the chance.

Pace bicycle racks are used by hundreds of riders each month. Bike riders are then assured that making transfers to other Pace buses is never a problem.

The Pace bike rack is attached to the front bumper of the bus, and remains folded vertically against the bus when not in use. The lightweight rack pulls down into a horizontal position to carry two bikes, which are easily secured by the bike riders. The tires fit into slots, while a spring-loaded support arm is pulled over the front tire. The bikes sit across the front of the bus, and the process of securing or removing a bike takes only seconds. Riders use the bike racks for free.

Pace operates more than 200 bus routes throughout Chicago's suburbs, making connections to hundreds of employment sites, shopping centers, recreational areas and bicycle paths.
 

*Most buses are equipped with bicycle racks. Express routes and certain feeder routes do not have bike racks.