[Bent] Metro-North disallows recumbents

[Robert Matson]

This stinks.

Just now, a friend brought it to my attention that the MTA's "Bike Permit
Regulations" website now specifically names recumbents as "not permitted."
 This must have been updated in the last two months.

It seems possible, however, that folding and split-apart bents, like the
HP Velotechnik Grasshopper fx, Volaes with ES frames, and bents with SS
couplings may still be permitted, but I'd put them in a closed carrying
bag if only to avoid encouraging further restrictions.  My guess would be
that dirty chains and chain rings have upset some transit officials, but
that's just a guess.  (E-ml me individually if you need info. about
carrying bags sized for the Grasshopper fx and the Scorpions fs/fx.)

See:
http://www.mta.info/mnr/html/getaways/bikerule.htm

Also see:
http://www.mta.info/lirr/about/Bicycles/#FoldingBikePolicy#FoldingBikePolicy

I assume I'm not alone in believing it would be worthwhile to work with
the MTA to reconsider, at least to allow short wheelbase bents with
covered chains and chain rings.

I'll spearhead this.  Is there anyone on the list with professional
negotiation skills who could volunteer to join me in this effort?  Write
me individually.

Best,
Robert

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Robert Matson
New York City Recumbent Supply(tm)
The Innovation Works, Inc.
Brooklyn, New York City
Tel: (646) 233-1219
Hours: M-F, 10am-6pm; Sat-Sun. by appointment.