Bicycle Access Expanded On Amtrak Downeaster Trains In Kennebec Valley Chamber-Commerce

Press release from Kennebec Valley Chamber-Commerce:

September 18, 2020

The Amtrak Downeaster has expanded its carry-on bike program and is now accepting bicycles from all Downeaster stations in Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

Newly installed luggage racks that convert to bike racks make it possible to roll bikes on board from any Downeaster station, then secure and store them on the train. Previously, bikes had to be stored in a special car, restricting access to only a few stations. Now, standard full-size bicycles may be carried on at any Downeaster station and stored in the designated racks, as long as the front wheel is removed. Bicycle space is limited to four per train, and a specific bike reservation is required in advance of travel. A nominal bicycle fee applies.

“NNEPRA and Amtrak have been working to improve bike access on Downeaster trains for a long time. We are very excited that passengers from all Downeaster stations now have the ability to bring their bikes on board,” said Natalie Bogart, Marketing Director. “This project could not have been accomplished without the continued support of the bicycle community and the partnership with Amtrak to modify the current train equipment”.

About the new Amtrak Downeaster Carry-On Bike Program:

• Space is limited and advance-reservations are required for the passenger and the bicycle.
  • When booking a ticket on Amtrak.com or via the Amtrak app, an icon with a number of spaces available will display if bike space is available.
  • Proceed 'Add Ons' step to add bikes to a reservation.
  • A bike reservation can be added to an existing reservation by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL.
• Passengers traveling with bikes are encouraged to arrive at the station at least 15 minutes prior to departure.
  • All panniers and bags attached to your bicycle need to be removed and consolidated before boarding.

For more information about Amtrak’s Bike policy, visit Amtrak.com.

This press release was produced by the Kennebec Valley Chamber-Commerce. The views expressed are the author's own.