New bus service makes Burgenland even more attractive for cyclists

A new pilot project has been launched to strengthen Burgenland's reputation as a cycling-friendly region. Passengers can now bring their bicycles on the popular B2 bus line, which connects the Styrian capital Graz with Oberwart and Bad Tatzmannsdorf in southern Burgenland. The service will run until October 31, 2025.

The new service is part of the "Active2Public Transport" (A2PT) project, which promotes innovative ways of combining active mobility and public transport. Several buses have been specially equipped with bike racks to ensure safe transport. For the duration of the pilot phase, bicycle transport on the line is free of charge.

Local officials are optimistic about the project’s potential. They believe that providing easy access to the region’s cycling routes via public transport is a key step towards encouraging more people to use their bikes. The initiative also supports tourism, making it easier for visitors from Graz to plan a relaxed cycling holiday in Burgenland.

Because of the limited capacity of the bike racks — which can hold between three and five bicycles depending on the model — passengers must make a reservation at least 24 hours in advance by calling a 24/7 hotline. For organizational reasons, bicycles can only be taken on and off at specific stops, including Graz Dietrichsteinplatz, Oberwart Hauptplatz, and Bad Tatzmannsdorf Josef-Haydn-Platz.

The bus operators will closely monitor the pilot project to assess demand and its impact on daily operations. The data collected will help guide future decisions on whether to establish the bike transport service permanently. The project responds to the growing demand from people who want to travel sustainably — not only in their daily lives but also in their free time.

Text & photo: Business Agency Burgenland