WASHINGTON (AP) - Metro says it is allowing folding bicycles on its subway trains during rush hour.

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The transit agency announced Monday that it has eliminated a requirement that folding bicycles be carried in a case during rush hour. They are now allowed any time, but must be folded and securely fastened during rush hour.

Metro says folding bike designs have improved and now are more compact. They also have features such as chain guards that protect other passengers from contact with greasy parts.

Standard bicycles are still prohibited during rush hour and other busy periods but are allowed at other times.

Metro officials say they encourage customers to travel to Metrorail stations by bicycle and have more than 4,000 bicycle parking spaces at stations. Metro buses also have bicycle racks in front.