Looking to discover Aberdeenshire and Moray's stunning bike paths? we've got you.

Here’s what you need to know:

Our new bike racks are now available on all double decker buses on the 201/202 (Aberdeen to Braemar) and 35/X35 services (Aberdeen to Elgin), perfect for hopping on and off the National Cycle Network! 

Check out the map to decide where to hop on and take your bike.

Each bus has space for two standard bicycles (including mountain bikes). Simply put your bike on the rack and secure it with the strap provided. No reservations needed - just hop on and secure your bike for free on a first-come, first-served basis! Each bus is equipped to ensure wheelchair access remains and the bike space can easily convert back to space for prioritised buggies or additional seats, so everyone can travel comfortably. Let’s make cycling more accessible and enjoyable.

The initiative is funded jointly by regional transport partnerships Nestrans (through People and Place Funding) and Hitrans, Aberdeenshire Council, Moray Council and the Cairngorms National Park Authority via its Cairngorms 2030 programme, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. 

This is a significant step towards better integrating cycling and public transport, making it easier for you to combine your bike rides with bus journeys.

35/X35 timetable serving Aberdeen, Banff, Elgin and everywhere in between.

201/202 timetable serving Banchory, Ballater, Braemar Deeside route

And there’s more to come! In the next few months, we’ll see bike racks appearing on buses serving the Aviemore network. Follow along for updates. 

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FAQs

Q. How do I know which buses on the routes have bike racks fitted?

A. Every double-decker that will operate on the 201/202 route has been fitted with bike racks. We will be able to operate double-deckers with racks on any Service 201 and 202 trip that operates between Aberdeen and Ballater/Braemar. We are unable to allocate enough double-deckers on the short working Service 202 trips between Aberdeen and Torphins/Tarland, so are unable to guarantee those as many trips are operated by single decks. Whilst there will be some instances where a double-decker bus needs to be taken off the full Aberdeen to Ballater/ Braemar route due to maintenance, we don’t anticipate this to be a frequent occurrence.

The 35/X35 routes are fully operated by double-deckers which have all been fitted with bike racks. We are currently installing racks on a few extra buses which can operate on this route as backups.

Q. On the double-decked buses, who has priority on the left side of the bus where the bicycle racks are placed?

A. Bicycles will be given priority over people using the fold down seats. Buggies have priority over bicycles. If both a buggy and bicycles are present on the bus, the buggy can use the wheelchair space, if unused. If a wheelchair and buggies are present, users with bikes will be asked to get off the bus. Their ticket will be valid on the next bus and the situation can be explained to the next driver. We do not anticipate this being a common conflict.

Q. How do I use the bike racks and secure my bike?

A. The bike racks will be folded against the wall when unused. These can be folded down and one wheel is to be placed in the rack. Please use the strap provided to secure your bike.

Q. How can I ensure that there is space for my bike if reservations are not accepted?

A. We do not anticipate the demand to be greater than the number of bike spaces provided, particularly while this service is new and taking off. However, if you are worried, particularly if travelling at peak time, we recommend checking the bus timetables and planning your journey accordingly to allow extra time.

Q. Can I take an e-bike on the bus?

A. E-bikes are not allowed on the buses. However, this is currently under review and any changes will be posted here.