Bimodal transportation is when you take two modes of transit (aside from walking) to arrive at your destination. There are times when it’s actually the fastest way to get around Metro Manila. However, it comes with a unique set of challenges that you need to prepare for. Here are five tips for bimodal transportation in Metro Manila with a folding bike.

1. Make sure you have the bare minimum

Although bimodal transportation is possible with a full-size bicycle, you’ll want a folding bike to maximize its effectivity. Any foldie will do as long as it has 20” wheels or smaller (in accordance with MRT and LRT rules). But based on my experience, a Brompton-style trifold (like the Popcycle Friend) is the most convenient to lug around. A Beep card will save you the hassle of having to line up at the MRT station. Also, having a face mask on hand can be handy in case it’s required.

2. Consider the accessibility challenges

The biggest hindrance to bimodal transportation in Metro Manila isn’t the efficiency of public transit, but rather its accessibility. For it to be even feasible, you need to be close enough to a station or terminal that serves your intended route.

Even if that were the case, it’s still no guarantee. Accessing the MRT and LRT stations is already challenging on foot. Just imagine how much harder it will be with a loaded folding bike. If ever you can’t carry it up and down the stairs, you won’t have a choice but to take the elevator (if it’s available).

3. Always be considerate of others

It’s easy to fall prey to main character syndrome. Always remember that you’re just another passenger. Having a folding bike doesn’t entitle you to extra consideration the same way as with the elderly or persons with disabilities.

Foldies are allowed in public transit, but this only applies if the space permits. That’s why you should think carefully if bimodal transportation is possible during peak hours. I learned this the hard way one evening: There was just enough space for me and my trifold in the MRT, but that didn’t stop other passengers from boarding along the way.

4. Know your options and the routes

MRT and LRT

The MRT and LRT don’t have to deal with traffic congestion on the road. Combine this with biking as a first- and last-mile ride, and you get the most efficient way to get around Metro Manila. However, before you start pedaling to the nearest station, you should consider accessibility and availability, especially during rush hour.

The train is a good option if need to travel far. But if your destination is too near, you’ll be better off biking the whole way. There’s a lot of walking and waiting involved. And when you’re in a station like One Ayala, it will take a while before you ever set foot on the road.

Also, take note of the station layout to save time and energy. The loading platform isn’t always the same (eg, Shaw and Buendia are center-loading), and the last thing you want is to be on the far side from the exit once the train arrives at your destination.

As someone who lives in Kapitolyo, Pasig, I don’t take the MRT if my destination is in between Ayala Station and Santolan Station. I can always bike through BGC to get to Makati, and EDSA Northbound is tolerable until Cubao.

P2P Bus

Whereas you feel like canned sardines in the MRT, you’ll feel like a passenger princess in the P2P bus. The advantage of these vehicles is that the route is direct, and they’re easily the most comfortable and accessible ride. There’s no need to climb endless flights of stairs, and the buses are low-floor. Plus, up to two full-size bicycles can fit inside.

Biking to the south is always challenging because the service roads are horrible. That’s why I’m grateful for P2P buses. I usually take one when going to Alabang, either at Greenbelt or Starmall at Shaw. The advantage is that I benefit from the Skyway without having to deal with the toll fee, gas, and stress of driving.

The trade off is the limited service. At the busiest times, the interval is every 30 minutes at the shortest. And don’t expect a ride late at night or during holidays. Although riding the P2P bus itself is relaxing, there’s nothing more stressful than trying to catch the bus. Unlike the MRT and LRT, P2P buses get stuck in the same congestion as private vehicles.

Pasig River Ferry

Biking to Manila is tricky when there’s no chill route going there. That’s why the MMDA’s Pasig River Ferry can be helpful, if it’s operational.

Last time I rode it, the stations covered Guadalupe all the way to Escolta with an end-to-end trip lasting roughly an hour. The ferry isn’t fast, but at least you won’t have to deal with the sea of cars. Similar to the P2P, up to two full-size bikes can fit at the back of the boat.

The problem with the Pasig River Ferry is that it isn’t dependable. Not only is it vulnerable to weather conditions, but there’s also no way to tell if the ferry is operational. Although it has great potential as a legitimate mode of transport, it’s treated more like a tourist attraction.

5. Cycling is just a means to an end

“Public transportation doesn’t compete with walking and cycling—it completes them. Together, they form the backbone of sustainable urban mobility.” – IMM DesignLab

At the end of the day, we’re all people who need to get from one place to another. Mobility isn’t defined by what you ride, but by how free you are to move. That’s why it should never be limited to one mode.

Bimodal transportation is possible in Metro Manila, and it can be effective. However, there’s much more that should be done when it comes to infrastructure, culture, and policy.

A healthy transport system is one that’s inclusive, accessible, and connected, where people have mobility options that serve their needs and purposes.