Hell is paved with good intentions … Wanting to take advantage of the health crisis to encourage collective and soft mobility, the federal government has taken some measures. In addition to distributing a pass of 12 free train journeys to any Belgian who requests it, there is also that, until December 31, access to bicycles on trains is free.
Many travelers seem to have benefited since SNCB announced on Wednesday that the number of bikes on trains increased by 80% in July compared to July 2019. And this is not without problems. “This creates many difficulties and complaints for travelers (in particular among people with reduced mobility), but also major safety problems in general and health in particular. Bicycles too often block the essential access to cars, entrances and outings and to sanitary facilities equipped with water and soap “, explains SNCB in a press release.
The rail manager will then have to put some order in place by taking measures to manage this influx of bikes. They will apply from this Saturday, July 18. Here they are.
Foldable bikes can be taken free of charge on all trains, provided that they are placed under a seat for the duration of the journey.
Except for certain trains to and from the coast and the Ardennes, anyone can take their bike on the train provided they have a bike ticket, available online, at a ticket vending machine or at the ticket office. This ticket is free until the end of the year.
The train attendant must be consulted before departure to indicate whether bicycle spaces are still available. If the train is too busy, the guide can refuse the bike. Groups with bikes are strongly discouraged.
From Saturday 18 July to Sunday 30 August inclusive, access to bicycles on trains to and from the coast and between Brussels and Arlon is only allowed:
– on trains arriving at a coastal station or in Arlon after 1 p.m.
– in trains leaving from a coastal station or Arlon before 4 p.m. or after 8 p.m.
All information is available on the SNCB website and travelers are invited to consult the SNCB travel planner, which indicates each train affected by the new measures.
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