Bike in Southern Train

[A Cyclist]

Hello all,

I have a bike to pick up this evening from Imperial Wharf and I plan to travel with it to Watford Junction.
Am I allowed to take the bike inside Southern Train? If it helps, the journey is after 2000 hours today.
Googled it, but got different opinions from different people.

Appreciate your inputs.

 

[StuartG]

You should be OK after 7pm. The relevant cycle policy is here:
http://www.southernrailway.com/your-journey/cycle-policy/new-cycle-policy
You should be OK for the Overground too.

What do differering opinions base their advice on?

 

[boybiker]

You should be fine *but* its at the conductors discretion hence the conflict of opinions.

 

[StuartG]

The conductors are instructed to refuse when:
1) There are too many bikes causing a blockage
2) When the space is required for a wheelchair

Both very fair. Frankly I've always found Southern guards (sorry can't get round to even thinking of myself as a 'customer') very friendly and accommodating people. We have rammed coaches full on many occasions getting no more than a smile. A contrast to their management who can be guaranteed to overact to any potential hazard (like during the Olympics).

 

[A Cyclist]

Thank you Stuart and boybiker. I managed to bring the bike through overground trains. I spoke to the staff
behind counter before boarding the train, they asked for the time though. It went well as it was after 1930 hrs. Btw the bike is a Saracen special edition for weekend park, canal tow path rides and hacks.