The route 70 bus service from Bendigo Station to Strathfieldsaye is one of four routes in Victoria taking part in a 12 month trial of bike racks on buses, which began today.
Minister for Public Transport and Member for Bendigo East, Jacinta Allan, and Member for Bendigo West, Maree Edwards, welcomed the start of the trial, which will allow cyclists to hook their bike onto a rack on the front of the bus and continue their journey on board.
Currently, only folding bikes can be carried on buses, meaning people with standard bikes have to leave them behind or ride the whole way.
The new racks are easy to use and are big enough to hold two bikes at a time.
Similar initiatives have been well received around the world, including in Canberra where bike racks on buses are now a permanent fixture.
Bus bike racks are also being trialled between Cowes and Wonthaggi, and in Melbourne on Routes 510 and 512.
The trial is a partnership between Public Transport Victoria, BusVic, and VicRoads, in consultation with local government.
The twelve month trial will run until April 2017. The size, use and effectiveness of the racks will be assessed at the completion of the trial, to determine whether they should be rolled out on other routes in Victoria.
For more information about the trial and to provide feedback on the initiative, passengers can visit ptv.vic.gov.au/getinvolved
Quotes attributable to Minister for Public Transport and Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
“It’s fantastic that Bendigo commuters will be among the first to try bike racks on buses, which will provide more choice to people about how they get around.”
“It is a trial so it’s important that people who want this service use it, and that everyone interested provides their feedback to Public Transport Victoria.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
“The new bike racks are easy to use and will get people in Bendigo home safer and quicker every day.”
“The Andrews Labor Government is investing in better public transport for Bendigo, and regional communities right across Victoria.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020