How to Travel with your Bike

HOW TO TRAVEL WITH YOUR BIKE

Brought

PLANNING

Travelling with your bike empowers you to embrace the thrill of unfamiliar terrains and to celebrate the spirit of adventure. Yet, figuring out how to champion the task of transporting your trusted companion can be daunting. This guide aims to transform that uncertainty into clarity, giving you the confidence to embark on your next journey with ease.

PLANNING

Planning Your Itinerary and Routes

Once you’ve chosen your destination, it’s time to plan your itinerary and routes. Consider the duration of your trip, the number of cycling days, and the distances you’re comfortable covering each day. Research popular cycling routes and attractions along the way. Take into account any logistical considerations, such as accommodations, rest stops, and access to supplies. Strive to strike a balance between challenging yourself and allowing time for relaxation and exploration.

Bike Packing

The age of turning up at the airport with an unpacked bike is long gone. Whether you’re using a dedicated bike bag, a hardshell case, or a specialised cardboard box, always ensure your bike is stowed securely. Typically, wheels, pedals, and handlebars need to be removed (this is not necessary for Scicon Aerocomfort Road & Triathlon Bags - see chapter 5).

Electric Bikes

If you’re travelling with an electric bike, be aware of airline restrictions, especially concerning the battery. While every airline has its own guidelines, most focus on battery capacity limits.

Tyre and Shock Care

Many airlines recommend deflating tyres and shocks partially. Leaving some air in your tyres can shield the rims, making a slightly deflated, rather than flat, tyre ideal.

Accessories

Apart from your bike, ensure you pack essential riding tools, nutrition, attire, helmet, sunglasses and other cycling necessities. Abide by airline weight limits and be cautious about restricted items.

By thoroughly preparing and researching these aspects before your trip, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable bike travel experience. Take the time to assess your abilities, select an appropriate destination, understand local regulations, plan your itinerary, and arrange bike-friendly accommodations and transportation. The more you plan ahead, the more you can focus on the joy of cycling and exploring new horizons.

BIKE INSURANCE

What is it and why do you need it?

As a cyclist, you may love to travel with your bike and explore new places. However, you may also wonder how to protect your bike and yourself from any risks or accidents while you are abroad. That’s where bicycle insurance comes in. Bicycle insurance is a special policy that covers your bike from theft, damage, or loss, as well as your liability and medical expenses in case of an injury.

BIKE INSURANCE

Travelling with your bike can expose you to various risks, such as:

• Theft

• Damage

• Injury

• Liability

To protect yourself and your bike from these risks, you may need two types of insurance: bicycle insurance and cycle touring insurance.

Bicycle insurance covers theft, damage and vandalism to your bicycle. It can reimburse you for the cost of replacing or repairing your bike if it is stolen or damaged. It can also cover the cost of hiring a replacement bike while you wait for your claim to be processed.

Cycle touring insurance is travel insurance that covers you for medical expenses, personal liability and other travel-related issues while you are cycling abroad. It can cover the cost of medical treatment, emergency evacuation, repatriation, cancellation, curtailment and baggage loss.

However, not all bicycle insurance and cycle touring insurance policies are the same. Depending on the type of bike you have, the level of coverage you need, and the budget you have, you may want to compare different options and find the best one for you. Speak to your insurance broker for more information.

TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS

Flying with Your Bike

This requires some preparation to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Start by checking the airline’s policies and fees for transporting bikes. Some airlines require bikes to be packed in a specific manner, such as in a bike bag or case. Measure and weigh your packed bike to ensure it meets the airline’s size and weight restrictions. It’s advisable to make a reservation for your bike in advance to secure space. Arrive at the airport early on the day of your flight to allow time for checkin and potential inspections. Upon arrival at your destination, inspect your bike for any damage before leaving the airport.

Taking Your Bike on Trains and Buses

Many trains and buses allow bikes on board, but specific rules and regulations vary. Check the policies of the transportation company you plan to use. Some may require reservations or have limited space for bikes.

Transporting Your Bike with a Car

If you want to take your bike with you on a road trip or to a different location, you will need a reliable way to transport it with your car. You can choose to put your bike inside of your car or on the outside using a bike rack. You should choose the type that best suits your needs and preferences, as well as the compatibility of your car and bike.

Shipping Your Bike

If you prefer not to travel with your bike, shipping it to your destination is an alternative option.

PACKING YOUR BIKE

After you have selected your mode of transportation for your cycling trip, you need to pack your bike. In this chapter, we will cover the following topics:

1. Choosing a suitable bike bag or box

2. Removing and disassembling bike components

3. Securing and protecting your bike

4. Packing tips and techniques

1. CHOOSING A SUITABLE BIKE BAG OR BOX

The first step in packing your bike for travel is to choose a suitable bike bag or box. This will depend on various factors, such as your budget, preferences, and goals. You also need to consider the size, weight, and protection of the bike bag or box. You need to consider the following aspects when choosing a suitable bike bag or box:

Bike Bag

A bike bag is a soft-sided case that can fit most bikes without removing too many parts. It is usually lighter, cheaper, and easier to carry than a bike box. However, it may not offer enough protection for your bike from impacts or rough handling. For example, you can choose the Scicon Sports Aerocomfort 3.0 TSA bike travel bag, which is the choice of many professional cyclists and teams. It allows you to pack your bike without removing too many parts, keeping the fit and performance of your bike. It also provides protection against theft and damage with its TSA-approved lock and padded frame. It’s also light which means the bag and your bag inside should meet most airline requirements.

Bike Case

A bike box is a hard-sided case that can fit most bikes with some disassembly. It is usually heavier, more expensive, and harder to carry than a bike bag. However, it may offer more protection for your bike from impacts or rough handling. For example, you can choose the Scicon Sports Aerotech Evolution TSA bike travel case, which is one of the lightest hard cases on the market.

Bike Cardboard Box

A bike cardboard box is an affordable yet risky way to transport your bike for travel. You can get a bike cardboard box from your local bike shop or buy one online. You will need to remove some parts of your bike, such as the wheels, pedals, handlebars, and seatpost, to make it fit. You will also need to wrap your bike with bubble wrap, foam, or cardboard pieces to protect it from scratches or dents. A bike cardboard box is not an ideal way to transport your bike due to transportation issues caused by the size, and it may not be very durable or secure considering weather conditions. Remember to check the condition of the box before and after each use and tape it well to prevent it from opening. Label the box clearly with your name, address, and contact details, and mark it as fragile. Keep in mind that extra charges or fees from the airlines can occur, as the box may exceed the size limits for normal check-in luggage.

TIP: Some airlines now require a bike bag or case for transporting bikes, and they may not accept boxes at all.

2. REMOVING AND DISASSEMBLING BIKE COMPONENTS

The second step in packing your bike for travel is to remove and disassemble some bike components depending on the bike bag or box chosen. This will help you reduce the size and weight of your bike, as well as prevent any damage or loss of the components during transport.

You need to consider the following aspects when removing and disassembling bike components:

Pedals

You should remove your pedals from your bike using a pedal wrench or an Allen key. You should also mark the left and right pedals with tape or stickers to avoid confusion when reassembling them.

Wheels

You should remove your wheels from your bike using a quick-release lever, a wrench or an Allen key. You should also deflate your tires slightly to reduce the air pressure and prevent any punctures or explosions. If you have a quick-release front wheel, remove it. For bikes with thru-axles, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for removal.

Handlebars

Again depending on your choice of bike bag or box you should remove or loosen your handlebars from your bike using an Allen key or a torque wrench. You should also loosen the stem bolts and rotate the stem sideways to align it with the top tube.

Saddle and seatpost

You should remove your saddle and seatpost from your bike using an Allen key or a torque wrench. You should also mark the seatpost height with tape or a marker to avoid losing your saddle position.

Pro Tip

Disassembling a bike with complicated internal routing or with an integrated handlebar will require a mechanical background or outsourced help. There are Bike bag options like Scicon Sports Aerocomfort which lets you keep your handlebar and seatpost in place requiring minimal disassembly for even first-time travelers.

3. SECURING AND PROTECTING YOUR BIKE

The third step in packing your bike for travel is to secure and protect your bike inside the bike bag or box. This will help you prevent any movement or damage to your bike during transport. You need to consider the following aspects when securing and protecting your bike:

Frame

You should secure your frame inside the bike bag or box using straps, buckles, or Velcro. You should also protect your frame from scratches or dents using foam pads, bubble wrap, or cardboard. Some athletes opt for pool noodles that are cut to fit over the frame which is still light in weight.

Wheels

You should secure your wheels inside the bike bag or box using straps, buckles, or a wheel bag. You should also protect your wheels from scratches or dents using foam pads, bubble wrap, cardboard or a towel. For example, you can use the Scicon Sports Wheel Bag, which is a padded bag that fits one or two wheels and place it inside your bag or box.

Handlebars

You should secure your handlebars inside the bike bag or box using straps, buckles, or Velcro. You should also protect your handlebars from scratches or dents using foam pads, bubble wrap, or cardboard. For example, you can use the Scicon Sports Handlebar Protector, which is a foam pad that wraps around your handlebars.

Saddle and seatpost

You should secure your saddle and seatpost inside the bike bag or box using straps, buckles, or Velcro. You should also protect your saddle and seatpost from scratches or dents using foam pads, bubble wrap, or cardboard.

3. PACKING TIPS AND TECHNIQUES

The fourth step in packing your bike for travel is to follow some tips and techniques that can help you pack your bike more efficiently and effectively. You need to consider the following tips and techniques when packing your bike:

Use the right tools

You should use the right tools for removing and disassembling your bike components, such as wrenches, Allen keys, or torque wrenches. You should also use the right tools for packing and securing your bike inside the bike bag or box, such as scissors, tape, or zip ties.

Label your parts

You should label your parts with tape or stickers to avoid confusion when reassembling them. You should also label your bags or boxes with your name, address, phone number, and destination to avoid losing them.

Take photos

You should take photos of your bike before and after packing it to have a record of its condition and configuration. You should also take photos of any damage or loss that may occur during transport to have evidence for any claims or complaints.

Weigh your bags or boxes

You should weigh your bags or boxes before leaving for the airport or transportation company to avoid any extra charges or fees. You should also check the weight limits and restrictions of your airline or transportation company to avoid any problems or delays.

TRAVELLING WITH SCICON SPORTS

Choosing the right Scicon Sports Bike Bag or Bike Case

Scicon has been producing bike transportation solution since 1980, supplying more than 30 of the world’s top professional teams. Scicon, today is an absolute market leader.

1.1 AEROCOMFORT 3.0 ROAD

The Aerocomfort 3.0 Road is ideal for flying with your bike and can also be used for other modes of transportation. It is made of a durable and lightweight nylon fabric that has triple layers of tear and abrasion resistance. It is also integrated with high-density foam padding to protect your bike from bumps and shocks. The bag weighs only 10.5 kg without your bike, so you can pack more without exceeding the luggage limit.

It has an internal bike stand that locks your bike in place, as well as an outer shell shape that allows you to keep your handlebar and seat post in place. Exterior reinforcement Shields are placed in specific areas to protect the most vulnerable parts of your bike from knocks and shocks. It has a multi-axle system that fits bikes with standard quick-release and 12mm thru-axle skewers and includes four thru-axle to quick-release adapters.

The Aerocomfort 3.0 Road is not only easy to use but also easy to store. It folds down to a compact size when not in use, saving you space in your home or storage room.

What is included in the bike bag?

• 2 x Thru Axle Adapter End Caps

• 4 x Thru Axle To Quick Release Adapter Kit

• Quick Release Front and Rear Skewer

• Front Strap

• Padded Shoulder Strap

• 2 x Handlebar Pads

• Top Tube Protection

• Aerocomfort Gear Bag

• Seat Protector For Aerocomfort 3.0

• Storage Bag For Aerocomfort 3.0

• Frame Defender | Aerocomfort Road/Tri 3.0

• Travel Sentry Approved (TSA) padlock

1.2 REMOVING AND DISASSEMBLING BIKE COMPONENTS

The first step in packing your bike for travel is to remove and disassemble some bike components. With the Aerocomfort Road 3.0, all that you have to remove are the wheels of your bike, which can be done without any tools. You don’t have to remove the handlebars or seat post, which means your bike settings remain intact. This makes it easier and faster to pack and unpack your bike when you travel.

PART INDICATION

WHEELS

• Please remove.

• You should remove your wheels from your bike using a quickrelease lever or Allen key. You should also deflate your tires slightly to reduce air pressure and prevent any punctures or explosions.

HANDLEBARS

• Do not remove.

• Do not remove.

SADDLE AND SEATPOST

• If you lower the saddle, make sure to mark the seatpost height with tape or a marker to avoid losing your saddle position.

• You do not need to remove the pedals, but it can be a personal choice to do so.

PEDALS

• If you remove it, mark the left and right pedals with tape or stickers to avoid confusion when reassembling them.

• You don’t need to remove the derailleur, but it can be a personal choice to do so.

REAR

DERAILLEUR

• If you remove it, please use the Scicon Sports Derailleur bag Accessory to stow it safely in the bag.

• If you do not remove it, we recommend using the Scicon Sports Rear Triangle Frame Shield for extra peace of mind protection.

1.3 WILL MY BIKE FIT IN THE AEROCOMFORT 3.0 ROAD?

The multi-axle system allows mounting road bikes with standard quick releases and 12mm thruaxle skewers. The bag also includes four Thru-Axle to Quick Release adapters.

Some measurements to give you a better insight

• The bag fits road bikes up to 62cm.

• Measure the wheelbase; it can fit 94cm min. to 106cm max (wheelbase is the total measurement from front axle to rear axle)

• The total length of the bike (wheelbase measurement + handlebars) is 109cm max.

• Handlebar width of up to 48cm

• Integrated seat posts: 65cm max or measurement from the bottom crankset to the top of saddle max 80cm

Note: For accuracy, contacting the Scicon Sports Customer Care Team is always best. They will be able to give you 100% assurance that your bike will fit or not.

1.4 HOW TO PACK

To assist you in packing your bike watch the YouTube video guide by clicking or scanning the QR Code.

2.1 AEROCOMFORT 3.0 TRIATHLON

The Aerocomfort 3.0 Triathlon is the best choice for triathletes who travel with their bikes. It is a soft-shell bike case that has an internal bike stand and an outer shell shape that allows you to keep your bike settings intact, like the handlebar, aero bar extensions, and seat post. You only have to remove the wheels of your bike and pack them in the bag without any tools or worrying about tampering with complex internal cable routing. The bag is made of durable and lightweight nylon fabric that has triple layers of tear and abrasion resistance. It also has high-density foam padding to protect your bike from impacts. The bag weighs only 11.5 kg without your bike, so you can pack more without exceeding the luggage limit. It has a multi-axle system that fits bikes with standard quick-release and 12mm thru-axle skewers and includes four thru-axle to quick-release adapters. Exterior reinforcement shields are placed in specific areas to protect the most vulnerable parts of your bike from knocks and shocks. The Aerocomfort 3.0 Triathlon is not only easy to use but also easy to store. It folds down to a compact size when not in use, saving you space in your home or storage room.

What is included in the bike bag?

• 2 x Thru Axle Adapter End Caps

• 4 x Thru Axle To Quick Release Adapters

• Quick Release Front and Rear Skewer

• Front Strap

• Padded Shoulder Strap

• 2 x Handlebar Pads

• Aerobar Protector

• Top Tube Protection

• Aerocomfort Gear Bag

• Seat Protector For Aerocomfort 3.0

• Storage Bag For Aerocomfort 3.0

• Frame Defender | Aerocomfort Road/Tri 3.0

• Travel Sentry Approved (TSA) padlock

2.2 REMOVING AND DISASSEMBLING BIKE COMPONENTS

The first step in packing your bike for travel is to remove and disassemble some bike components. With the Aerocomfort 3.0 Triathlon bike travel bag, all that you have to remove are the wheels of your bike, which can be done without any tools. You don’t have to remove the handlebars or seat post, which means your bike settings remain intact. This makes it easier and faster to pack and unpack your bike when you travel.

PART INDICATION

WHEELS

• Please remove.

• You should remove your wheels from your bike using a quickrelease lever or Allen key. You should also deflate your tires slightly to reduce air pressure and prevent any punctures or explosions.

AEROBARS

• If need be, move the aero bars backwards to use up less space.

HANDLEBARS

• Do not remove.

• Do not remove.

SADDLE AND SEATPOST

• If you lower the saddle, make sure to mark the seatpost height with tape or a marker to avoid losing your saddle position.

• You do not need to remove the pedals, but it can be a personal choice to do so.

PEDALS

REAR DERAILLEUR

• If you remove it, mark the left and right pedals with tape or stickers to avoid confusion when reassembling them.

• You don’t need to remove the derailleur, but it can be a personal choice to do so.

• If you remove it, please use the Scicon Sports Derailleur bag Accessory to stow it safely in the bag.

• If you do not remove it, we recommend using the Scicon Sports Rear Triangle Frame Shield for extra peace of mind protection.

2.3 WILL MY BIKE FIT IN THE AEROCOMFORT TRIATHLON?

The multi-axle system allows mounting bicycles with standard quick releases and 12mm thru-axle skewers.

Some measurements to give you a better insight

• The bag fits Triathlon and Road bikes up to 62cm

• Measure the wheelbase; it can fit 94cm min. to 106cm max (wheelbase is the total measurement from front axle to rear axle)

• The total length of the bike (wheelbase measurement + aero bars) is 129cm max.

• Handlebar width of up to 45cm

• Integrated seat posts: 65cm max or measurement from the bottom crankset to the top of saddle max 82cm

Note: For accuracy, contacting the Scicon Sports Customer Care Team is always best. They will be able to give you 100% assurance that your bike will fit or not.

2.4 HOW TO PACK

To assist you in packing your bike watch the YouTube video guide by clicking or scanning the QR Code.

3.1 AEROCOMFORT MTB BIKE TRAVEL BAG - MY19

The Scicon Sports Aerocomfort MTB MY19 Bike Travel Bag makes travelling with your mountain bike convenient and secure. It has two fold-down sides that help you load and unload your bike with ease. With an internal bike stand, the bag provides a stable connection for your mountain bike and maximum protection at the dropouts and drivetrain. You just need to remove the wheels, bars, and pedals, and place your bike on the internal bike stand. The bag can fit almost any type of mountain bike up to 29”, including Cross Country, All Mountain, Trail, Enduro, Freeride, and Downhill bikes. It also has internal padded wheel pockets for tires up to 27.5+, 29” x 3.5”. The bag has a multi-axle system that fits bikes with standard quick-release and 15mm thru-axle skewers and comes with four Thru Axle to Quick Release adapters. The bag is made of high-density woven nylon that is durable and lightweight and has a twin-wheel system that makes it easy to roll. The Aerocomfort MTB MY19 Bike Travel Bag is not only easy to use but also easy to store. It folds down to a compact size when not in use, saving you space in your home or storage room.

What is included in the bike bag?

• 4 x Thru Axle Adapter End Caps

• 4 x Thru Axle To Quick Release Adapters

• Quick Release Front and Rear Skewer

• Front Strap

• Padded Shoulder Strap

• Handlebar Pad

• Rear derailleur bag

• Top Tube Protection

• Aerocomfort Gear Bag

• Seat Protector for Aerocomfort 3.0

• Storage Bag for Aerocomfort MTB

• Frame Defender for Aerocomfort MTB

• Travel Sentry Approved (TSA) padlock

3.2 REMOVING AND DISASSEMBLING BIKE COMPONENTS

The first step in packing your bike for travel is to remove and disassemble some bike components. With the Aerocomfort 3.0 MTB travel bag, you need to remove the wheels, bars, and pedals.

PART INDICATION

WHEELS

• Please remove.

• You should remove your wheels from your bike using a quickrelease lever or Allen key. You should also deflate your tires slightly to reduce air pressure and prevent any punctures or explosions.

HANDLEBARS

• Please remove.

• Do not remove.

SADDLE AND SEATPOST

PEDALS

REAR DERAILLEUR

• If you lower the saddle, make sure to mark the seatpost height with tape or a marker to avoid losing your saddle position.

• Please remove.

• We recommend removing it.

• Please use the Scicon Sports Derailleur Accessory bag included in your purchase, and stow it safely.

3.3 WILL MY BIKE FIT IN THE AEROCOMFORT MTB MY19?

The Aerocomfort MTB Bike Travel Bag makes it easy for you to assess if your bike will fit inside the bag or not. These are only a few measurements to look at:

• Can transport almost any type of mountain bike and it is suitable for most Cross Country, All Mountain, Trail, Enduro, Freeride, and Downhill-Bikes up to 29“.

• The multi-axle system allows mounting bicycles with standard quick release and 15mm thru-axle skewers. The bag also includes four Thru Axle to Quick release adapters.

• Internal padded wheel pockets for tires up to any 27.5+, 29″x 3.5″

• Internal bike stand and adjustable wheelbase of up to 1280mm

Note: For accuracy, contacting the Scicon Sports Customer Care Team is always best. They will be able to give you 100% assurance that your bike will fit or not.

2.4 HOW TO PACK

To assist you in packing your bike watch the YouTube video guide by clicking or scanning the QR Code.

5.1 AEROTECH EVOLUTION HARD CASE

The Scicon Sports Aerotech Evolution is the answer if you want a bike travel case with excellent protection, a lightweight design, and easy packing. This bike case is made with proprietary ABS composite material that is durable and shock-resistant. It weighs 12.5 kg, which is light for a hard-shell case with such high protection. Pack your bike in minutes by removing the wheels, handlebars, saddle, and one/both pedals. The case fits road, gravel, and cyclocross bikes, as well as Quick Release and Thru Axle systems. It also has an asymmetric design that can fit bikes with integrated seat posts.

The Scicon Sports Aerotech Evolution is the ideal bike case for flying with your bike. It has four sturdy butterfly latches, one of which is secured with a TSA-approved padlock for extra safety. The case also features a Suspended Frame System that keeps your bike frame in a stable position and protects it from any shocks during the flight. The ergonomic handles and the smooth wheels make it easy to manoeuvre the case around the airport and beyond.

What is included in the bike bag?

• Travel Sentry Approved (TSA) padlock

• Lifting strap Aerotech

• High quality padded filling Aerotech Evolution

• Wheels cover for Aerotech Evolution

• Accessory soft bag Aerotech Evolution

• Quick Release Front and Rear Skewer

• 2x Thru Axle to Quick Release adapters

• 2x Handlebar Pads

5.2 REMOVING AND DISASSEMBLING BIKE COMPONENTS

PART INDICATION

WHEELS

• Please remove.

• You should remove your wheels from your bike using a quickrelease lever or Allen key. You should also deflate your tires completely or leave enough air for the sealant not to leak. This reduces air pressure and prevents any punctures or explosions.

HANDLEBARS

• Loosen and rotate or remove.

• Please remove the saddle & seatpost if possible.

SADDLE AND SEATPOST

• Make sure to mark the seatpost height with tape or a marker to avoid losing your saddle position.

• For integrated seatposts remove the saddle

PEDALS • Please remove.

REAR DERAILLEUR

• We recommend not removing it.

5.3 WILL MY BIKE FIT IN THE AEROTECH EVOLUTION?

The Aerotech Evolution can fit most road, gravel and cyclocross bikes taking into consideration these important measurements to give you a better insight:

• Designed to mount any bike frame up to 62cm

• Measure the front fork (bottom) to the highest part of the external brake hood (after turning and folding) should not be higher than 87cm

• Measure the front view width (the highest part of the break hood to the end of the drop bar stem) (after turn and fold) should not exceed 20cm

• TIP: For a seat extension frame, reverse the frame in the case. Measure from the bottom crank to the end of the seat post, it can fit a max of 80cm

Note: For accuracy, contacting the Scicon Sports Customer Care Team is always best. They will be able to give you 100% assurance that your bike will fit or not.

5.4 HOW TO PACK

Pro-Tips

• Secure the front wheel to the LEFT side using the SHORT quick-release skewer - Secure the rear wheel to the RIGHT side using the LONG quick-release skewer.

• The cassette should face the dedicated wheel area

• If you have thru axle wheels, use the provided adapters

To assist you in packing your bike watch the YouTube video guide by clicking or scanning the QR Code.

DEALING WITH AIRLINES AND TRANSPORTATION COMPANIES

The last step in packing your bike for travel is to deal with airlines and transportation companies that will transport your bike to your destination. This will depend on various factors, such as their policies, fees, and services.

You need to consider the following aspects when dealing with airlines and transportation companies:

Booking: You should book your bike as checked baggage or cargo in advance to ensure availability and avoid any surcharges. You should also confirm your booking before leaving for the airport or transportation company to avoid any changes or cancellations.

Checking-in: You should check in your bike at the designated counter or area at the airport or transportation company. You should also show your booking confirmation, identification, and payment receipt. You should also inspect your bike for any damage or loss before handing it over.

Claiming: You should claim your bike at the baggage claim area or the cargo terminal at your destination. You should also show your baggage claim tag, identification, and payment receipt. You should also inspect your bike for any damage or loss before accepting it.

DEALING WITH AIRLINES AND TRANSPORTATION COMPANIES CONCLUSION

In this document, we have covered how to pack your bike for travel. We have discussed how to remove and disassemble bike components, choose a suitable bike bag or box, secure and protect your bike, follow some packing tips and techniques, and deal with airlines and transportation companies.

If you’re travelling by air, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the airline’s policies and procedures for travelling with bikes. Check the specific requirements for packing, weight restrictions, and any additional fees. Some airlines require advance notification or reservations for transporting bikes. It’s recommended to arrive at the airport early and approach the check-in counter with your bike packed and ready for inspection. For other transportation options such as trains or buses, check their specific guidelines and requirements for bike transportation, including any limitations on sizes or quantities.

By carefully disassembling your bike, selecting a suitable packing solution, securing and protecting your bike, utilizing effective packing techniques, and understanding the policies of airlines and transportation companies, you can ensure that your bike arrives safely at your destination. Proper packing minimizes the risk of damage and gives you peace of mind, allowing you to focus on the adventures that lie ahead.

CHECKLIST FOR FLYING WITH YOUR BIKE

Preparation

Research airline-specific bike transport policies and fees. Consider insurance options for your bike.

Inform the airline in advance about your intention to transport a bike.

Bike Packing

Select the appropriate packing option: dedicated bike bag, hardshell case, or specialised cardboard box. Remove wheels, pedals, and handlebars if required.

Remove CO2 canisters from saddle bags as airport security will usually not allow you to travel with that. If using a cardboard box, ensure it’s padded adequately for protection. For electric bikes, be aware of battery transportation restrictions.

Tyre and Shock Care

Partially deflate tyres and shocks (ensure they’re slightly deflated, not completely flat).

Navigating Airline Policies

Check if your airline accepts the bike bag within your baggage allowance or requires a surcharge. Consider upgrading your travel class for a better baggage allowance if necessary.

Packing Accessories

Ensure all essential riding tools are packed. Pack nutrition, attire, helmet, sunglasses and other cycling necessities. Abide by airline weight limits and avoid packing restricted items in the bike bag/box. Keep essential items (e.g. GPS, cycling shoes, favourite helmet) in carry-on luggage if possible.

Post-flight Considerations

Have a transport plan ready for your bike once you arrive at your destination (public transport, dedicated service, etc.).

Inspect your bike upon arrival for any potential damages or issues.

Alternatives

Research high-quality bike rental options at your destination as a backup or alternative plan.

THANK YOU