ScotRail is increasing the number of cycle spaces on its trains to encourage tourists, cycling fans, outdoor pursuits enthusiasts, and local commuters to ditch the car and use the train.

In 2015, there were 932 spaces for cycles on ScotRail trains., whereas now there are 1,406, with more to be provided this summer.

Within the last few months, an extra 140 spaces have been installed across the fleet of 70 Class 385 electric trains.

All ScotRail trains now have spaces for bikes. By the end of August, 100 more spaces will have been installed on the Inter7City trains, bringing the overall total to 1,506.

ScotRail’s design team worked with Transport Scotland, cycling groups, and outdoor specialists, to devise a solution where up to 20 cycles and bulky sports gear could be accommodated in a dedicated carriage.

The number of cycle spaces now available on ScotRail’s trains are as follows:

• Class 153 – 100;
• Class 156 – 258;
• Class 158 – 320;
• Class 170 – 132;
• Class 318 – 42;
• Class 320 – 68;
• Class 334 – 80;
• Class 380 – 76;
• Class 385 – 280;
• Inter7City – 150, from August 2022.

ScotRail has also joined forces with Sustrans Scotland to produce a series of ‘How To’ videos, giving a step-by-step guide to using the new cycle spaces. These videos are available on ScotRail’s website at http://www.scotrail.co.uk/cycling

James Ledgerwood, Head of Economic Development and Communities, said:

“This is great news for everyone who uses a bike to get around Scotland.

“Whether it’s for work or for leisure these new cycle spaces will help even more people get out of cars and into the great outdoors and make a real difference if you want to travel in a more sustainable way.

“We promised that we would hugely increase the number of spaces on our trains, and despite the delay caused by coronavirus, we have delivered on that pledge.

“ScotRail is committed to improving cycling facilities at stations and on trains.”

Jenny Gilruth MSP, Transport Minister, said:

“I am delighted that extra cycle spaces are being made available on ScotRail trains. This is a wonderful chance for the people of Scotland to explore the country in a more accessible and integrated way. We are committed to increasing levels of cycling and walking for transport and leisure, and?by offering additional cycle spaces on board trains we can help even more people get out of cars.

“The Highland Explorer carriage which launched on the West Highland Line last summer has proven to be a lead example for the type of innovative ideas which supports tourism and economic growth.
“I look forward to ScotRail delivering on further improvements which supports sustainable and active travel whilst also having a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of the nation.”

John Lauder, Sustrans’ Deputy Chief Executive and Scotland Executive Director, is about to start an 18-month secondment working with Network Rail Scotland and ScotRail to lead on work developing a strategy and a delivery plan to make it easier to travel to railway stations sustainably. He said:

“This is an exciting time for sustainable transport and active travel in Scotland with the policy direction moving away from emphasis on private motoring, and towards public transport, shared mobility and active travel.

“Increasing the number of cycle spaces on trains is a key part of the process of making that change.

“Sustrans worked closely with ScotRail over the introduction of the Highland Explorer carriages which provide vastly increased cycle storage on services along the West Highland Line.

“The carriages are a great example of how we can work together to make walking, cycling and public transport more attractive and convenient options, giving people the opportunities to make more of their journeys without the need for a car.”