Complete Guide to Bringing Bicycles on Taiwan Railways: Train Bike Travel Guide

Taiwan has a comprehensive railway network, and combining it with bicycle travel opens up endless riding possibilities. From the New Taipei riverside bike paths in the north to the Hengchun Peninsula in Pingtung in the south, taking bicycles on trains has become an increasingly popular way to travel for many cyclists. This article provides a complete introduction to the bicycle-carrying regulations and practical tips for Taiwan’s various railway systems.

Overview of TRA Bicycle-Carrying Methods

The Taiwan Railways Administration offers several ways to bring bicycles on board, catering to the needs of different cyclists:

1. Two-Wheeled Trains (Rider and Bike Together)

Two-wheeled trains are the most convenient way to bring your bike, as no disassembly is required—you can wheel the entire bicycle directly onto the dedicated carriage.

Applicable Train Types:

Local trains (selected services)
Chu-kuang Express (selected services)
Specific eco-friendly two-wheeled train services

Rules and Restrictions:

Bicycles are limited to standard two-wheeled bikes with a wheel diameter of 20 inches or larger
Electric-assist bicycles are permitted, but electric scooters are not
Each train has a fixed bicycle storage area with limited spaces
Services on non-holidays are more flexible; booking in advance is recommended for holiday services

Fare Calculation:

The bicycle fare is half the fare for that section
Passenger ticket + bicycle ticket = total cost
Children bringing bicycles enjoy the same child ticket discount

Reservation Methods:

Reservations can be made via the TRA e訂通 APP
Purchase tickets at station counters
Some services allow on-site standby boarding

2. Bike Bag Method (Disassembled Bike)

Disassemble the bicycle and place it in a bike bag, then carry it on board as regular luggage.

Rules:

The bicycle must be completely enclosed in the bike bag with no parts exposed
The maximum bike bag dimensions must not exceed 150 x 100 x 60 cm
Place it in the designated luggage space in the carriage
Must not block aisles or inconvenience other passengers

Applicable Train Types: All train types, including Taroko Express and Puyuma Express.

Advantages:

Not restricted by service schedules—you can ride any train
No need to purchase an additional bicycle ticket
Can take faster reserved-seat trains

Disadvantages:

Requires removing the front wheel (at minimum)
The bike bag takes up considerable space
Difficult to move around in crowded carriages

3. Luggage Shipping

Send the bicycle as checked luggage, dropping it off at the departure station and picking it up at the arrival station.

Rules:

Must be properly packed to avoid damage during transit
Shipping fees are calculated by weight
Transit time typically takes 1 to 2 days
Luggage shipping services are available at select stations

Suitable Scenarios: When you’re not in a hurry to use the bike, for long-distance travel, or when you prefer not to carry the bike onto the train.

THSR Bicycle-Carrying Regulations

Taiwan High Speed Rail has relatively stricter bicycle-carrying regulations:

Bike Bag Method:

The bicycle must be disassembled and placed in a bike bag
Bike bag size limit: length + width + height must not exceed 220 cm
The longest side must not exceed 150 cm
Place it in the large luggage area or in front of your seat (provided it does not inconvenience others)

Important Notes:

THSR currently does not offer two-wheeled train services
The bike bag must be fully sealed with no parts exposed
Carriages are crowded during peak hours, making the bike-carrying experience less pleasant
It is recommended to travel during off-peak hours or choose the non-reserved carriage

Tips:

Small folding bikes (such as Brompton) are the most convenient for THSR due to their compact folded size
Road bikes are best carried in a dedicated lightweight bike bag
Assemble your bike in a spacious area after arriving at the station—avoid assembling on the platform

MRT Bicycle-Carrying Regulations

Taipei Metro

Open All Day on Holidays: Bicycles may be carried on all day on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.

Limited Hours on Weekdays:

Open hours: from the first train to 06:00, and from 22:00 to the last train
Bicycles are prohibited during peak hours (06:00–22:00)

Restrictions:

Boarding and alighting is only permitted from the first or last carriage
Each carriage is limited to 4 bicycles
A bicycle single-journey ticket (NT$80) must be purchased
Folding bikes placed in a bike bag are free of charge and treated as luggage

Kaohsiung Metro

Bicycle-carrying regulations are similar to Taipei Metro
Open all day on holidays; limited to off-peak hours on weekdays
Boarding and alighting must be through designated doors
Light rail trains have separate regulations—it is recommended to confirm before boarding

Practical Bike-Carrying Tips

Improving Packing Efficiency

Practice disassembly and assembly: Practice removing the front wheel and packing the bike bag several times at home; once you’re proficient, it only takes 3 to 5 minutes at the station
Prepare tools: Carry 4mm and 5mm hex wrenches and a 15mm pedal wrench with you
Protect key components: Wrap the derailleur and disc brake rotors with an old towel
Choose the right bike bag: Select a model with shoulder straps for easier mobility

Route Planning Suggestions

Route 1: Northeast Coast Scenic Route

Take the train to Fulong Station → ride through the Old Caoling Tunnel → ride along the coast to Ruifang → take the train back
Approximately 30 km in total, suitable for leisure riding

Route 2: Sun Moon Lake Loop

Take the HSR to Taichung → transfer to a bus to Sun Moon Lake → ride the lakeside bike path
The loop is approximately 30 km and can be combined with the cable car

Route 3: East Rift Valley

Take a two-wheeled train to Hualien → ride through the East Rift Valley → take the train in stages
Choose riding segments based on your fitness level

Route 4: South Link Line Adventure

Take the train to Fangliao → ride the South Link Highway → take the train back from Taitung
Approximately 100 km, suitable for experienced cyclists

Important Notes

Arrive early: Arrive at the station at least 20 minutes in advance to allow time for disassembly and queuing
Avoid peak times: Two-wheeled trains are very popular on holidays; it is recommended to take an early service
Confirm the service: Not all trains offer two-wheeled service—be sure to confirm before departure
Prepare for rain: Carry a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof bags; Taiwan’s weather is unpredictable
Plan supplies: Supply points may be scarce on remote sections—bring enough water and food

Carrying Bicycles on Other Transportation

Intercity Buses

Some intercity bus operators allow bicycles in the luggage compartment, but this must be confirmed in advance. Certain routes of Kuo-Kuang Bus offer bicycle-carrying services.

Ferries

Ferries to outlying islands such as Xiaoliuqiu, Green Island, and Orchid Island generally allow bicycles on board for an additional fee.

Shared Bike Alternative

YouBike 2.0 is available throughout Taiwan’s major cities. For short commutes or urban sightseeing, using shared bikes may be more convenient than bringing your own bicycle.

Conclusion

Taiwan’s railway bicycle-carrying environment has improved significantly in recent years. Two-wheeled train services are becoming more frequent, and the various bicycle-carrying regulations have become more cyclist-friendly. By making good use of the combination of railways and bicycles, you can easily explore beautiful bike paths across Taiwan without being limited by physical endurance or distance. The next time you plan a cycling trip, consider trying the train-plus-bike model—it will surely give you a different travel experience.

Taiwan Railway Bicycle Regulations 2026: A Complete Guide to Bike Trains, Bike Bags, and Eligible Train Types