Amtrak from Boston to Chicago

[Monk]

Anyone know if the train from Boston to Chicago accommodates bikes, either as walk on or checked baggage?  Has anyone traveled with their bikes on Amtrak before?  Just curious if it would be best to bring it with me on the train or to ship it home.  I've tried calling Amtrak but the automated response was very annoying/difficult to get through.  Any info would be a great help. Thanks

[CastAStone]

http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?c=AM_Content_C&pagename=am/Layout&cid=1241267294303

[indyfabz]

Anyone know if the train from Boston to Chicago accommodates bikes, either as walk on or checked baggage?  Has anyone traveled with their bikes on Amtrak before?  Just curious if it would be best to bring it with me on the train or to ship it home.  I've tried calling Amtrak but the automated response was very annoying/difficult to get through.  Any info would be a great help. Thanks

1.  Call 1-800-USA-RAIL.  When "Julie" answers simply press 0 and you will be trasnferred to an agent.

2.  The Lake Shore Limited does offer checked baggage service between Boston South Station and Chicago's Union Station.

3.  Shipping a bike on Amtrak is a lot easier (and cheaper) than flying or shipping it.  The boxes (sold for something like $12) are huge.  All you need to do is remove the pedals and turn the bars and stem.  You may also have to lowe the seat post depending on its height.  Then you roll it right into the box.  I have taken my bike on Amtrak numerous times (including twice across the country).  It has never been damaged.  Note that the Lakeshore Limited is a popular train.  If you haven't done so alrerady I would look into booking now if your trip is imminent.

[aggie]

I've traveled several times on Amtrak with my bike.  Amtrak now charges $5 for the box and $15 handling.  As mentioned the box is large and easily accommodates most bikes.  I bring zip ties to secure my handle bars to the top tube and a pedal tool to remove and put on the pedals.  So far I haven't had a problem.  It sure beats the airlines.  I've even heard that some stations even have some tools for bikes but don't count on it.  Since the bike is considered baggage you can only ship and pick up the bike at a station that offers baggage service.

[Tourista829]

I concur, my last quote was $20 for the box and handling. I would call ahead and make sure they have boxes in stock, because sometimes they run out. No bike box = no bike transport. I use bubble wrap, with quick ties around the frame. FYI, although you will be going out of a manned station, unmanned stations, will not allow you to load a bike on the train, even if you have a box. (might come in handy somewhere down the road)