Train operators remind London to Brighton cyclists about bike ban

Train company Southern has issued a reminder to cyclists about its ban on bikes on the day of the London to Brighton Bike Ride.

The ban affects all cyclists – not just those taking part in Britain’s biggest charity bike ride – next Sunday (15 June).

The annual bike ride is organised by the British Heart Foundation (BHF) and attracts between 25,000 and 30,000 riders each year.

A fleet of lorries is laid on by the BHF to take bikes back for weary riders.

Southern said: “For the safety and comfort of passengers using Southern and First Capital Connect train services on the weekend of the London to Brighton ride, there will be cycle restrictions in place.”

On the day of the ride, Southern said: “Because of the large number of bicycles involved, passengers will not be able to board Southern services with a non-folding cycle at any Southern station from the start of service until noon.

“After noon they will be able to board with bicycles north of Gatwick Airport, east of Pevensey and Westham and west of Fishbourne stations but will not be able to take their bikes to stations that carry an all-day ban.”

A Southern network map showing where the restrictions are can be found at http://www.southernrailway.com/your-journey/cycle-policy/bike-ride.

First Capital Connect will be operating an identical ban on Sunday.

Southern also warned of queues and delays for cyclists on Saturday (14 June) and Monday (16 June).

The company said: “Passengers travelling on train services from Brighton with cycles may experience delays as these services can only hold a limited number of cycles. A queuing system will be in place for the day.”

It added that normal peak-time restrictions would apply on Monday morning. To see these, visit southernrailway.com/cyclepolicy.