I recently learned that Amtrak is trying out a new service for Michigan's Blue Water and a several other lines across the country. That is, being able to roll your bike directly onto one of their cars.
How much does it cost?
Essentially, you pay zero to ten bucks extra for your ticket, and they have a little bike rack in one of the cars for you to lock up to.
Where is this available?
According to Amtrak's website:
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Amtrak Cascades, 10 spots per train, $5
Capitol Corridor, 6 per train,
free
San Joaquin, 6 per train,
free
Pacific Surfliner, 6 per train,
free
Downstate Illinois Services, 4 per train, $10
Blue Water (trains 364 and 365 only), 4 per train, $10
Missouri River Runner, 4 per train, $10
Downeaster (BRK, POR & BON stations only), 8 per train, $5
Piedmont, 6 per train,
free
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Here's how it apparently works. Call ahead and make sure everything you read is true. Then book your ticket while reserving a spot. Ride to the station, lock your bike to their rack, ride, unlock, ride away. Seems pretty simple.
What bikes will fit?
It looks like different trains have different racks, so if you ride a fatbike (or other weirdo bike) like I do, make sure it'll fit before you book. The website makes some vague comments about recumbents, tandems and other non-standard bikes not being accepted.
Has anyone here used this?