Has Anyone Put their Bike on the Autotrain?

[mdcruiser]

Just musing about a long ride this winter.... I was thinking of riding one way to Florida, and using the Autotrain to bring the bike back the other way. [We live not far from the Lorton end of the line.] Just wondering if any other MOA members have used the Autotrain, and how they found the service. My Cruiser has a sidestand, of course -- do they put bikes solidly on chocks?

[Cal]

I have, what Amtrak uses is a steel pallet with channels for your tires. The procedure is as follows; you ride the bike unto the pallet where their crew proceeds to secure it to the pallet. Make sure you bring your own soft ties or a Canyon Dancer if you don't have heated hand grips. A couple of spare Ancra straps would not be a bad idea.

Your bike is secured without need of sidestand, just as if you had it on a trailer ot the back of a pick up truck.

It is a pretty secure set up as long as you take an active part and make sure it is all secure.

If you decide on traveling using the Autotrain I recommend you use a sleeper cabin this way you will have a proper bed and be properly rested for wherever you will go in Florida.

Cal Garcia
Sarasota, FL

Cal Garcia
Sarasota, FL