Understanding bicycles on Amtrak

This is the most up to date information on how to load a bicycle on the River Runner train in Missouri. I can say that because I am on train 318 now. The River Runner is a twice daily train between KC and St Louis, but one of the daily trains extends to Chicago, on a different route than the Southwest Chief. This particular River Runner adds the description “with Lincoln service.” This loading process is only applicable to the Missouri River Runner because they do not have a baggage car, luggage (and bikes) is carry on only. I personally call it a glorified commuter train, hence no baggage car. You must add a bicycle reservation when you purchase your ticket, and that fee is $10. I understand they have a limit of four bicycles per train, so book ahead. Due to Amtraks reservation system you wont know if bike spaces are available until after you add a seat into your cart….the next step is adding a bicycle (or golf clubs) This is where you learn if those spaces are available for you and there is a counter of 1-4 displayed. If spots arent available you don’t have to “check out” or get billed for the seat you placed in the cart, similar to other online purchases. Once you are beside the train, unload and set aside your panniers/bags if applicable, pick up your bicycle and carry it on board. On this train I was instructed to lean it against a railing in a passageway just a few steps up and into the train. On my previous Amtrak ride I stored it in the seating area of a passenger car where two rows of seats had been removed. The conductor assisted me in carrying the bike on board the first time, but not today which was not an issue. With permission I chose to lock my bike to the railing since it was out of my line of sight. ?
Be aware Amtrak is often late. They are completely at the mercy of freight traffic which always had priority. If you are interested in this you can check train status prior to your trip. Yesterday Amtrak was two minutes early arriving in StL from KC. The day prior the same train was about thirty minutes late. Today we departed 17 minutes late due to a broken down freight train.
I think that should cover most of the questions. It was pretty easy both times.
Happy Trails!
This is a copy of my post in the Facebook group Katy Trail Riders. That post includes a video, but essentially it’s three or four steps up into the train, a 90° turn followed by a few steps to the storage area. Very easy with an unloaded bike…unless you left your bags on, then it’s a bit awkward and unbalanced.