Bikes On the Surfliner

[mattapoisett]

Has anyone taken the Surfliner with a bike? I would love to here your experience. Next week I am on a business trip to Santa Barbara and would like to take my bike so I can be car free. I have heard there are vertical racks for 3 bikes on each car, but in recent times there is anecdotal evidence the racks fill up quickly. Rumor had it, Amtrak takes reservations on racks for $5. When I called, the agent said no bike reservations on the Surfliner.

I will be taking the bus from Culver City to Union Station and won't have alot of options if it does not pan out. Any thoughts?

Thanks

- P.

[vnc]

Unless you see a notice made by Amtrak, you will not be charged for taking your bike on board any Pacific Surfliner and/or other California Corridor Train Service.

But note: Train # 763, 768, 769, 774, 775, 784 and 785 have Surfliner Cars assigned to them. Train 798/799 has the older Horizon Cars assigned to this run. And depending on the Conductor, he/she might let you put your Bike in the Baggage Car or you may have to get assistance.

As for the Coast Starlight, should you choose to take this train, you have to put your bike in a box and have it as checked baggage. They will charge you $5 fee for this.

But if you have time. You can call Amtrak or go to Los Angeles or Van Nuys Amtrak Station and ask a ticket agent. They would be able to tell you more.

[Transit Coalition]

mattapoisett said:

Has anyone taken the Surfliner with a bike? I would love to here your experience. Next week I am on a business trip to Santa Barbara and would like to take my bike so I can be car free. I have heard there are vertical racks for 3 bikes on each car, but in recent times there is anecdotal evidence the racks fill up quickly. Rumor had it, Amtrak takes reservations on racks for $5. When I called, the agent said no bike reservations on the Surfliner.

I will be taking the bus from Culver City to Union Station and won't have alot of options if it does not pan out. Any thoughts?

Thanks

- P.

Ed Von Nordeck advises:
Should be no problem to get bike space. No charge on these trains.

[mattapoisett]

Thanks Guys. I feel better. I will be on the 769 out of LAUS @ 1230 after having arrived on the 439 Bus. Now I just have to make sure I don't pack too much.

Take Care

- P.