Buses and bike carriers.

[Katherine]

Hi! Are bikes allowed on buses (or trains if I think ahead!) or does it depend on the bus company? I would like to go further afield with my bike on the bus and then go for a ride.... I have a mountain bike.
Also, we have a fiat Punto, and was wondering what kind of bike carrier would be best for our car.

I have a punto. We put the seats down and take the front wheel off. Then turn the handle bars completely and put bike in handle bars first which then hook over the gap between the seats. I'm not strong enough to do this on my own so I reach from the front seat to receive the bars and lift them as hubby guides the back wheel into the corner of the boot. Chain side up. Cushions for the mudguards. He then has to come with me to help me set up my bike at the other end.
So obviously I don't do it very often but it has enabled me to take part in the Great Manchester Cycle and the ride for sports relief.
I would like an easy to use carrier for a punto but they all look it would require a lot of fixing and unfixing at each end. One day....
Meanwhile I have started to ride further so I can vary my routes a bit.
When I only have time for shorter rides I still enjoy being out on my bike.
Good luck.

 

[Moe]

Thank you all! I know I do live in a beautiful part of the country, I really do! The scenery is outstanding at times and I am grateful for the beauty around me! (although I know it does not sound like I am, but honest.... I am!!) I just wanted to explore different parts of the country, England has an awful lot to offer and I would love to see it! Hopefully when the longer days arrive, I can get further afield!

 

[Gravity Aided]

My local transit has carrying frames on their buses, and they get a lot of use. Bikes ride for free.
http://www.connect-transit.com/riding/bikerack.asp

 

[HLaB]

Its probably been said above but on most buses no, unless its a folder. There are a limited number of buses with a rack on the front (more common in the USA) and Stagecoach or somebody are working on a rack under coaches.
Most trains can take bikes and most nowadays have dedicated spaces but you need to check with the operator if there's time restrictions or a booking procedure.

 

[classic33]

Northern Rail have two spaces on a first come basis. First may require pre-booking, but you have to check on the day!

 

[Scotchlovingcylist]

I once got a puncture on a cold wet winter night, a bus driver allowed Me on the bus with my MTB but only because it was empty at 11 o'clock at night and I wasn't going far. It was a stagecoach and he said their policy was no bikes, even folders. Whether this has changed I don't know as I understand they have also changed their pram/wheelchair policy now as well