whatsmyname

Greyhound has a new spinoff called boltbus (boltbus.com). They're operating upgraded buses with free wifi and power points between NYC and DC (presumably other places to follow). The especially good news for cyclists is that bikes go on free, without reservation (subject to space) and don't need to be in a bag.

Worth a look if you're going between NYC and DC and need to take your bike.

boltbus.com faqs:

Can I take a bicycle or golf bag?

We do allow them and consider them to be oversize items as long as space is available in the baggage area. The oversize item will count as your one bag allowed under the coach. You’ll be responsible for placing the item in the baggage bin. We will not charge you an additional fee for oversized item provided it is within your limit of one bag under the coach. BOLTBUS is not responsible for damage to oversize items or items that are not placed in normal luggage or a carrying case.

Edit: sigh, forgot to put "on new bus service" in the thread title

AHemp

That's good news, but I'm not sure how much I'd want my bike being banged around underneath a bus.

stevesurf

Interesting idea; I'm sure the price difference is huge between them and Amtrak. Otherwise, you'll have to put the bike in a box, anyway.

Air

Been able to do that with the Chinatown buses for years. I used to take my bike to Philly and now Boston via the Chinatown buses - they're great. I'd wrap a handkerchief on the bars where it will rub against the floor so it doesn't take your wrap off.

And if you can find the compartment with the spare tire it's the perfect spot; one pedal inside the hole and it won't bounce around as much (but I've never had any damage besides the wrapping).

Stacy

When my daughter came home from college, in Boston, she brought her bike back on the bus. I don't remember if it was Greyhound or Peter Pan but there was no extra charge, and it's on a space-available basis.

zowie

What is The Chinatown Busses?

timmhaan

those are the ones that are usually found on fire on the side of the highway between boston, DC, and NY. cheap though.

Air

Yeah, there's one behind Penn Station that goes to Philly ($25 rt), a few at 2nd Ave/Chrystie and Canal that go to Boston ($30 rt), and some under the Manhattan side of the Manhattan Bridge that go to DC ($25 rt).

Hate variable rates especially if you can't get there in time. Double that if it's run by Greyhound.

rando31337

i would be wary of sticking my bike beneath a bus unless it was in a box (which I don't have), but the one-way fare starts at ONE dollar for this bus. not a bad deal.

whatsmyname

ime the compartments beneath NYC to DC buses are usually empty or practically empty. People don't take a lot of stuff.