ScotRail 153 (Highland Explorer) to Oban

I'm travelling to Oban in the summer and keen to travel on a 153 with their more comfortable seating (in my opinion at least). Is the only way to reserve a seat in this coach to also reserve a cycle space at the same time? It seems a shame to take away availability for someone with a bike when I don't have one.

Also, are the 153s always allocated a certain coach letter? Just so I can double check any reservations are actually made in that part of the train.

Thanks!

You can book the specific Explorer ticket, which will automatically put you in the explorer coach.

You need to look for the HIGHLAND EXPLORER SINGLE or HIGHLAND EXPLORER RETURN when booking.

Temporarily, there is no additional charge, the above ticket types are priced the same as the other singles and returns. Depending on what Scottish Government decides later, a supplement may be introduced (as originally intended), but unlikely to be any time soon.

Thank you. I did see mention of this ticket but thought it had been withdrawn as it didn't seem to be given as an option on the ScotRail website. I shall delve deeper.

EDIT: I see there is an option in small text that allows you to compare all ticket types. Found it there.