Trying to bring a bike on amtrak?
I'm hoping to bring my bike with me on Amtrak from Syracuse, NY to the Albany, NY station. I feel like I have seen bike cars on Amtrak before but according to this article, bikes aren't allowed (http://maphappy.org/2015/03/things-that-will-get-you-kicked-off-amtrak/). I was wondering if there were any of you guys who have had personal experience w/ this topic (seeing someone get kicked out of Amtrak for carrying a bike, attempting to bring your own bike on Amtrak, etc.).
Best Answer
Well you most likely won't get kicked off because of the bicycle unless you just bring it on board without permission.
According to the Amtrak Policy there are a few routes that offer "walk-on" bicycle service but none of them travel through Albany.
You can reserve space on the bicycle rack or put it into baggage in Syracuse and pick it up in Albany, so I would just suggest doing that.
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How do I book my bike on Amtrak?
Make a reservation for your bike at the same time you're booking the rest of your travel here at Amtrak.com, via the Amtrak app, at a Amtrak kiosk, by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL or by visiting any Amtrak ticket office. You must have a travel document (eTicket) for your bike.Can I just take my bike on a train?
Yes, you can. Although the types of bikes allowed on trains can vary. Fully folding bicycles are allowed on all trains without restrictions or reservations. Reservations are sometimes required for full-size bicycles on certain services, and there are also restrictions on Peak-time travel.Do I need a bike lock on Amtrak?
We strongly recommend you lock your bicycle by inserting the U-lock or cable lock through the front wheel of your bike and the notch on the lowered stabilization bar. While it doesn't happen often, bikes can be and have been stolen from the train, especially when the bicycle owner is sitting in the upper level.Lessons learned: How to take a bicycle on Amtrak. (Recorded at the end of the REACCT tour.)
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Answer 2
Regular bicycles take up a lot of space, are unbalanced, can't stack, and their pedals are ankle eaters. Unless they have a designated space, they are a hazard.
That said, if you pack your bike in a suitcase or carrying case, so that is the same size and shape as airplane checked luggage, you should be fine. This is what I do with my folding bike. When asked what it is, I say that it's exercise equipment.
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