Amtrak rolls out train-side check-in for bicycles on its L.A.-Seattle route

Good news for bicyclists who like to go the distance. Amtrak’s Coast Starlight train, which runs between Los Angeles and Seattle, now allows passengers to check their bikes when they board their train — for a low price too.

The cost of checked bicycle service depends on how far you’re traveling, according to an Amtrak news release. For example, an unreserved seat from L.A. to Seattle costs $95 and an additional $20 for the bike.

Passengers must buy a ticket for their bicycle when they buy their train ticket, either online or at the station. Amtrak advises travelers with bikes to check in about 45 minutes before boarding so you can hand off your bike — minus any panniers or saddlebags — to a customer representative, who hangs it on a rack in the baggage car.

The service is available at stations that offer checked baggage (not all do).

Coast Starlight joins other Amtrak train routes that check bicycles, including the Sunset Limited (L.A.-San Antonio-New Orleans), California Zephyr (San Francisco-Denver-Chicago) and the Southwest Chief (L.A.-Albuquerque, N.M.-Chicago).

Amtrak began train-side checked bicycle service last year.

Info: Amtrak Bring Your Own Bicycle on Board

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