Photo by chricycle on Flickr.

People carry a lot of weird stuff on Metro. We asked our contributors what they’ve seen, and what Metro’s rules are for carrying unusual items.

We started in on the topic when contributor Ned Russell asked what the policy for skis on Metro is during our discussion on best projects from other places, adding, “I contemplated taking them on for a flight to Colorado earlier this winter but ended up just getting a ride.”

Fellow contributor Nick Keenan had the answer:

You can bring your skis, your surfboard, your washing machine — if it fits it rides.

But the answer isn’t quite that simple. Gray Kimbrough pointed out that in response to video footage of a mattress on Metro, last year, WMATA issued clarifying policy language:

Patrons may carry ordinary hand baggage and instrument cases, tool cases, folding baby carriages, wheelchairs, bundles, or packages which can be handled without inconvenience to other patrons. Such articles must not be permitted to remain in a position where they will interfere with entrance or exit, free use of the aisle, or the proper and safe operation of the vehicle. Patrons must remain with their possessions at all times. Unattended articles may be confiscated and/or destroyed for safety and security reasons.

Naturally, we devolved in a discussion of the craziest things you’ve ever seen on Metro.

David Cranor and Nick Keenan point us back to a washing machine, though whether or not it’s Metro is up for debate.

Julie Lawson confesses, “I’ve taken my surfboard on Metro during rush hour. I also, a looooong time ago, took a life-size inflated emperor penguin on during evening rush. It sat on my lap. Not nearly as large as a washing machine but possibly more ridiculous-looking.”

Home appliances… but no bikes?

“Metro has stringent regulations on bicycles but none on other large and bulky items,” says Nick Keenan. “Your bicycle, even if it’s in a cardboard shipping container, is restricted. Boxes of bicycle parts, on the other hand, are no problem.”

Steve Seelig points out that this is a “huge gap in Metro policy with the rush hour bike ban.  Seriously, I would ditch my car if I could use the system [with my bike] during rush hour. Rumor has it Metro is having ridership issues, and I recall last year one of their spokespeople mentioned they are trying to lure more cyclists onto the system. But he just meant the people, not the bikes.”

What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever seen on Metro? Tell us in the comments!

Do you have a question? Each week, we’ll post a question to the Greater Greater Washington contributors and post appropriate parts of the discussion. You can suggest questions by emailing ask@ggwash.org. Questions about factual topics are most likely to be chosen. Thanks!