How to Take a Bicycle on an Amtrak
Wonder what it would be like to trek by bicycle through the Grand Canyon? Or bike from Denver up the Rocky Mountains? Find out by taking your bicycle with you to anywhere Amtrak goes--travel by train to a new destination and then cycle around to explore.
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Instructions
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Getting prepared
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Check with Amtrak to find out which transport options are available on your train. Some trains allow you to take your bike on board and store it in a bike rack. Other trains allow you to check your bicycle as luggage. Depending on the train, bikes may need to be boxed.
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Reserve a space. On trains that offer bicycle racks, you may reserve a space when you make your train reservation. You can also reserve a spot for your bike on trains with tie-down equipment in the baggage car for unboxed bikes. Space is limited and you may have to pay a fee.
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Prepare your bicycle for travel. Make sure any loose parts are tightened or removed and packed separately.
Using the onboard bike rack service
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If onboard bike racks are available, reserve a space at the time your purchase your ticket.
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Bring your bike with you on-board and present your bike rack ticket to the conductor.
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Secure your bike on the rack using a bungee cord and lock, or use the rack's built-in locking mechanisms. Not all bike racks have built-in locking mechanisms, so bringing your own is a good idea.
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Pick up your bike as you exit the train at your final destination.
Checking your bike as boxed luggage
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If you are checking your bike as boxed luggage, you do not need to reserve space. Just purchase your ticket as usual.
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Find a box. You may be able to purchase one from the Amtrak station or you may need to bring your own. Call ahead and find out if boxes are available. You might also be able to find boxes at local bike shops or shipping supply stores.
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Pack your bike. Bikes often need to be partially disassembled to fit into the boxes. You may need to remove the pedals and loosen the handle bars to turn them.
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Check your boxed bike, along with any other luggage, when you arrive at the train station. Amtrak suggests checking all luggage at least one hour before your train's departure time.
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Pick up your boxed bike along with any other checked luggage at your final destination.
Checking your unboxed bike
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If the train provides a special area within the cargo hold for bikes, you may reserve a spot when you purchase your train ticket. Bikes that are transported in these areas do not have to be boxed.
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Check your bike along with your other luggage when you arrive at the station. Bikes are secured in the cargo area using special tie-down equipment.
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Pick up your bike at your destination along with any other checked luggage.
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Tips & Warnings
Bring your own tools along to dissemble your bike for packing. You might want to practice before you arrive at the train station.
Boxes can be saved an reused if they are in good shape.
Frequent travelers might consider purchasing travel cases specially made for transporting bikes.
Folding bikes may be brought on-board as carry-on luggage.
Un-boxed bicycles checked with luggage may be damaged in transit and Amtrak disclaims any liability.
