The Coast Starlight Amtrak train runs from Los Angeles to San Francisco.
I boarded the train in Glendale to get to Union Station on March 28th, 2014. I arrived in Emeryville quite late due to a burst pipe delay around San Luis Obispo. The ride is quite scenic and an observation car makes for a great lounge spot.
I got a ride in an automobile from Emeryville to San Francisco. My bike had to be checked in a bike box. Bicycles may be checked in a bicycle container for $10, in lieu of a piece of baggage. Bicycle boxes are sold at most staffed locations for $15 per box. Customers may supply their own bicycle container. The only terrifying part is taking off your pedals, turning your handlebars (BRING YOUR OWN TOOLS) and waiting for your bike box to be taken off the train at your destination.
The great thing about traveling with your bicycle is that you can go on some awesome rides at your destination.
Above is the map and elevation profile of our ride to the top of twin peaks (photo below).
The other great thing about traveling on Amtrak is that you have lots of time to catch up on your paperwork. I returned to Southern California on March 31st, 2014.
The cost of a ticket for the same dates in 2014 is $62 for 1 reserved round trip coach seat. This price does not include the fare from Glendale to LA Union Station or the price of the bike box and checked baggage.