Firstly, thanks for all the replies and advice. I did some research and came across a lot of information that echoes everything everyone has said thus far. I came to terms with the fact that SF --> LA is easier, but didn't want to fly my bike up north. The train sounds like a very interesting option, and it would be fun to see California via bike AND train. The only down side is I think I would be losing 1 day of cycling, but I suppose it comes with its advantages.

I am still debating whether to do this trip in May, where I will face relatively strict time constraints, or wait until August where I have no obligations whatsoever.