Su-Hua Highway Improvement Project Cycling Ban: Shuttle Options and Alternatives

Introduction

Since the Suhua Improvement Project (Su’ao–Hualien Elevated Highway) fully opened to traffic in 2020, bicycles have been banned throughout its tunnels. For cyclists on a round-island tour, the Suhua section has become an unavoidable “gap.” This article summarizes three mainstream transfer options to help you choose the most suitable plan.

Current Status of the Suhua Section

Option 1: Train Transfer (Most Recommended)

Procedure

1. Arrive at Hualien Station or Xincheng (Taroko) Station.
2. Book a “bicycle car” train service on the e訂通 APP.
3. Arrive at the station 30 minutes early and wheel your bike onto the car yourself.
4. The local train takes about 80 minutes to reach Su’ao New Station.
5. From Su’ao New Station, ride Provincial Highway 2 north or Provincial Highway 9 back to Taipei.

Advantages

• Safe, comfortable, and inexpensive (NT$150–200).
• No need to disassemble or pack your bike.
• Frequent departures (8–10 trains daily).

Disadvantages

• Advance booking required during peak travel seasons.
• Cars may be packed on holidays.

Option 2: Round-Island Bus Shipping

Round-island operators such as “Giant Round-Island Bus” and “Giant Luggage Van” offer bus transfer services for the Suhua section.

Procedure

1. Reserve a date and time slot with the operator.
2. Cyclist and bicycle ride separately.
3. The bicycle is shipped to a designated location (mostly Luodong or Su’ao in Yilan).

Advantages

• No need to disassemble your bike yourself.
• Luggage can be shipped along as well.
• Customizable route options.

Disadvantages

• Higher cost (NT$1,500–2,500 per person with bike).
• Must coordinate with the operator’s schedule.

Option 3: Taking on the Traditional Suhua Highway

The traditional Suhua Highway (Provincial Highway 9D) remains open to bicycles during certain periods. However, the risk is high, and it is only recommended for experienced riders.

Prerequisites

• Check the Directorate General of Highways announcements 24 hours before departure.
• Confirm there is no continuous rainfall warning for the day.
• Ride with at least 2 people for mutual support.
• Carry ample supplies (no convenience stores along the way).

Route Highlights

• Total length of 78 km with a cumulative climb of 1,800 m.
• Average completion time of 6–9 hours.
• Rockfalls and landslides are the main risks.
• Multiple tunnels (some old Suhua tunnels remain open).

Comparison of the Three Options

Practical Tips

• First round-island trip: Choose train transfer for safety and convenience.
• Limited time: Choose train or bus.
• Seeking a challenge: The traditional Suhua route requires prior assessment and must be done with companions.
• Booking timing: Train bicycle cars need to be booked 14 days in advance during peak season.
• Return trip integration: Consider taking the Puyuma Express from Hualien directly back to Taipei (bicycle booking required).

Conclusion

The Suhua section is not an obstacle to a round-island tour but rather a different kind of travel experience. Whether you take the train to enjoy the Pacific Ocean views, ride the bus to rest and recover, or challenge the traditional Suhua Highway, each has its own appeal. Choose the option that suits you best and make the Suhua section a unique chapter in your round-island memories.

Related Reading

• The Suhua Highway After the Suhua Improvement Opened: Can Cyclists Ride It and How to Ride Safely
• A Complete Record of Riding the Suhua Highway: Taiwan’s Most Stunning Coastal Highway Experience
• A Grand Cycling Tour of the Suhua Highway: The Ultimate Riding Experience on the Pacific Cliffs
• The Eastern Coastal Section: Challenges and Safe Riding Guide for the Suhua Highway