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So you have a race in Hawaii or France or you travel a lot and want to train on the road?
You need a travel case for your bike. The first image that comes to mind is a large plastic shell. You will be pleased to know that the technology around cases has come a way. Cases, now fold, come in fabric with internal frames, and have all sorts of padding and straps. The plastic shell ones are still the most durable.
Broken down you have 2 options, either a hard plastic case or a soft case with an internal frame to protect your bike. The hard case is simple and has foam inserts to protect your bike. The more foam and stronger the shell the more bucks.
Size of your box is more important if you ride a large bike. Most manufacturers make one size fits all, others make sizes. Be aware that if you have a tall bike, you will want making it difficult for the rest of the bike to fit. Note: A bigger box means more room for gear, especially if you have a small bike.
Packing your bike is no easy feat, however with practice and the right tools its straight forward. This will also serve as an opportunity to become more familiar with the mechanics and fit of your bike. If you still have no interest, your local bike shop will be happy to pack it for you. Just make sure you know of a good shop on the other end – that has the time. If there are local races and it’s the only shop, you might have to wait.
Note: Pack and reassemble your bike BEFORE you leave and do it with the tools you plan on taking with you. If you have carbon – wrap it in thin foam, bubble wrap, duct tape or newspaper to protect it from abrasions – regardless of where you think it will rub. Clear nail polish will help preserve the carbon if you do get some wear spots.
You should assess as to whether you are planning on carrying on your wheels and the size of your frame. There are some nice wheel bags out there, and the less loose equipment in a bag or box the less likelihood for damage to the wheel or frame.
For longer trips, or for trips where your arrival point is different than your departure point, is the standard cardboard bicycle box. When I cycled New Zealand we arrived on the north island and departed from the south. There was no way that we could transport a bike bag/box with us. A disposable box was the key. Things to think about bike boxes: In Marin chances are that you can get a box for free, it should come from a shop with foam and plastic pieces to protect your fork, hubs and seat post.. In other parts of the world, you might have to pay for one – especially if they are in demand. When we left New Zealand, there was a triathlon going on and all the local shops were hording boxes. We finally got one for $40 each and a 6 pack of beer.
NEVER pack your helmet in a bike box or in the cargo. Always carry it with you. You have no control or knowledge of what happens to it. This is your brain bucket – treat it with respect. Note: If a helmet is damaged or in an accident Bell has a replacement / loyalty program. For a third the price you can get a new helmet and provide them with one for R&D to make them safer. Recycling at its finest!
Airlines usually charge either a flat fee or by weight. Call the airline ahead to make sure that they have room on the plane (small puddle jumpers might not) and what their fees are. Using clothing or gear to pack your bike can save luggage space, however could cost you more.
I like to jump on my case, if the case can take a beating from me, that then I know my investment is protected. Remember if might be dropped, or on the bottom of a large pile of bags. Accidents do happen.
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