Pacific Northwest - Bike spots on the Amtrak Cascadia

Has anybody been on the Cascadia and used the bike hangers? I am heading down to Portland for the NAHBS and was thinking about taking it but my bike is an Xtra Cycle. They have a warning about bikes with special racks and they don't fit then you need to box it. Anybody have a clue if it would fit?

I've used the racks on the Cascades several times. They are just hooks that you hang your bike on by the front (or rear) wheel. I think there are only 6 or 8 hooks, and you'll need to make a bike reservation to assure that your bike will get on. If the hooks are filled when you get to the train, you will have to box the bike, and pay freight instead of the $5 for the hook. That may be a busy time for bike travelers, make a reservation right away, and make sure you get the bike reservation.

Also, make sure that the conductor knows that you need to get your bike out of the baggage car before the train stops, we almost had the train pull away before we got to the baggage car one time, it wasn't fun trying to get the driver's attention.

It's a great way to take your bike, have fun!

I understand the hook thing, and I would only go with the reserved spot for the bike. What I am worried that the bike (xtracycle) would be to long for their rack. It's 15 inches longer than a standard bike and just don't want to waste the money on the ticket if I end up having to drive.

the hooks hang from the ceiling, and i remember seeing maybe a foot or two of clearance below our road bikes.. how much longer is an xtracycle?

i suggest measuring it, and then calling their hotline, they can tell you yes or no. also be mindful that the boxes are also made for road bikes, and won't fit longer bikes.

best of luck!

cool, thanks for the info.

We just went down to Portland during Christmas by train and hung the bikes with no trouble.