Cycling

New high-speed trains go slow on provision for cyclists

   The new service by Great Western Railway has reduced bike space, a
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   Great Western Railway’s new high-speed Intercity Express trains
   launched from Paddington last month, but may prove difficult for
   cyclists to use easily.

   [ ] Great Western Railway’s new high-speed Intercity Express trains
   launched from Paddington last month, but may prove difficult for
   cyclists to use easily. Photograph: Jack Boskett/FirstGroup

   Great Western Railway’s (GWR) new high-speed Intercity Express trains
   made headlines last month with their gaffe-filled launch that saw new
   trains temporarily taken out of service after several on-board
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   the return leg.

   By contrast, on most European trains (all but high-speed lines), bike
   tickets can be booked at the station, albeit often for a fee.

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   A GWR spokesperson says: “The new trains are extremely flexible with
   cycle spaces. A nine and 10-carriage train will have up to eight spaces
   available (two more than their high-speed train counterparts), however
   the number will depend on predicted demand as the spaces will also be
   used for bulk luggage [pre-determined prior to departure]. We do