Personally (and I know your question was not for me) I have had only one Amtrak experience and it was sans bike. I was selling a vehicle to a family member downstate and we met in Dwight, IL so I could deliver it to them and use Amtrak to take me to Union Station then out on the UPNW Metra line to home. After all I've heard over the years and the constant teetering on bankruptcy I did not know what to expect other than little. I was pleasantly surprised. The equipment was decent, the staff was professional, and the train was packed. I don't think there was a seat empty at that point except the one I reserved! I only checked one car though, there could have been a few scattered here and there on the train. I believe that line runs to St. Louis so it is probably a heavily patronized line. Limited experience here but I would have to say that Amtrak could be a decent way to make a journey if it covers your route. I rather wish we had more Amtrak service because these days I would much rather deal with a railway station than an airport. Amtrak can be decent, it is worth improving, expanding, and considering for personal travel.

Ken