Taking Bikes Aboard Amtrak

In the Fall of 2015, Amtrak partnered with organizations within the biking community to accommodate more eco-friendly and fitness-oriented riders on some of their routes. This move was aimed at not only recruiting more train passengers but enhancing the appeal of public transportation. A task force was assembled to advise the transportation company on the needs of the biking community, as well as its importance in regards to intercity and cross country transportation. Currently, there are three forms of bike transportation and services available on Amtrak. Here are the services offered at this time:

1. Walk-Up or Checked Service — Standard adult bicycles may be stored and transported in racks, which are housed in the train’s baggage car. It is important to note that passengers cannot access these cars. Therefore, authorized personnel will store and secure your bicycle in the racks. Passengers are required to provide chains and/or locking devices for securement purposes. Advance reservations are often required for this amenity. However, the conditions vary for each train. Moreover, this option is only available at select stations, sopassengers should call and/or search online to check for its availability and conditions.

2. Walk-On Service — Standard adult bikes may be carried and stored onboard in racks on certain trains. Passengers should call or search online to view the availability of this option and which trains offer it. This service is offered on afirst come, first-serve basis and once the racksare full, no more bikes will be allowed onboard.
3. Boxed Bikes in Checked Baggage – -Bicycles may be checked on trains between all stops where the checked baggage service is available.However, not all trains or stations are staffed or able to provide this option. Therefore,passengers should call and/or search online to check for its availability.

In addition to the select availability of this service, passengers should also contact Amtrak to verify the number of spaces, fees, and whether a reservation is required. All of the trains that accommodate this service differ in all of these aspects, and you’ll find information about the availability of each service below.

Walk On Availability

Image courtesy of Amtrak.

Walk Up Availability

Image courtesy of Amtrak.