Sage Advice for Flying with your Bike

Packing up your bike and taking it with you can be a challenge. However, it is better than going without it. Renting a bike is always an option but you may find that the rental is just not as good as your trusty two wheeler. Another option is shipping your bike, but this can be costly and tedious. Why not just pack up your bike and let it fly along with you?

Before ditching the idea of flying with your bike, think of all the perks of flying with your bike. Having your bike on the plane with you ensures that it will not be lost in the mail. Flying with your bike also means that you won’t have to wait for your cycle to arrive. As soon as you reach the destination, you will be able to ride. If there is a competition planned or a long biking tour, this can be helpful.

There is a change for flying with a bike on domestic flights. The price can be a little steep but if you are participating in a tournament or will be away for a while, it is worth the fee. When packing a bike for a flight, it is important to find the right type of container. Use a sturdy nylon bag that has strong metal frames in it, or opt for hard cases that are insulated with foam to help keep your bike safe and sound.

Finding a good case for the bike is vital for flying. However, buying or renting the case should be based upon whether or not the bike will be flying often. Competitors are wise to buy cases for their bikes because the cycle will probably be making several trips. Those that are going on a biking tour once or a long vacation should consider renting a good case to transport the bike in.

In order to get the bike in the container, one must take it apart. This can be a challenge for those that are not mechanically inclined. Having the right basic tools make taking a bike apart fairly simple. The best way to ensure you are on the right track when it comes to disassembling is to ask someone who knows. Pay a visit to the bike shop where you purchased the bike. Ask the attendants to show you the proper way to disassemble your bike.

The goal when packing your bike is to make sure that it is in a box that cannot be crushed. You also want the bike to be secure inside the container so that the metal does not come into contact with one another. If the bike case is not designed to hold the bike in place, arrange the spacers so that they are in the frame’s fork and rear triangle. This should provide some protection for any unforeseen dropping of the container. When removing the handlebars, keep the bike and shift cables connected. Lay these items next to the frame.

Be sure to take the tools that are necessary to reassemble the bike with you. It is also a great idea to take some cloth to assist with clean up, lubricant for stubborn parts and extra tires and tubes just in case. Most bike cases will have some extra room to fit some of these items in them.

Competitors want to be sure to get to their destination at least one day before the race. Your bike will most likely be okay when you fly with it, but leave yourself a bit of time to problem solve any potential issues. Flying with your bike can be a great decision if it is done properly.