crc bike travel bag

Chain Reaction Cycles Pro Bike Bag review – I’d pick the big softy

The only times I’ve ever suffered serious non-repairable damage to any of my bikes over the years is traveling with them. Once, it was because I was stupid enough to forget I had a bike on the roof before driving into a garage, but it’s happened flying with them too. After investing in a couple of bike cases, I’ve learned a lot about the pros and cons of different products and come to the conclusion that a soft case like the Chain Reaction Cycles Pro Bike Bag is the best option.

Let’s face it, flying with a bike is a pain

I really should teach myself to be a runner as I’m always envious on business trips when my coworkers pop out from the hotel for a run because all they had to pack was shoes and running clothes. If you haven’t flown with a bike before, I’d first suggest you really think hard about it before investing in any case at all for three reasons:

1) It’s awkward – I don’t care how light your bike is or how good your case is, schlepping through airports with a case and other luggage is difficult. Not impossible, just difficult. Oversize luggage often has to go to a special place to check it in, and then it comes out somewhere other than the usual baggage carousel at the other end – often long after other bags have arrived. I recently missed a connecting flight in New York returning from the UK and had to stay overnight, which meant taking the bike to a hotel and then re-checking it the next morning. Yes, it’s great to have your own bike on a trip over getting on a rental, but you need to think about exactly how many times you plan to ride and weigh that against the difficulties. Is it worth it?

2) The cost – Once upon a time, you could take a bike for free on most international flights and some domestic, but it now costs an average of $100 each way unless your other luggage is all carry-on. Depending on what you’re renting and what you plan to use it for, there may be cheaper/better rental options.

3) Special ground transportation may be required – Once you get to your destination with your bike case, what’s your plan then? If you’re getting around by rental car, then count on having to pay for a larger one – particularly in Europe where cars are typically much smaller.

Go hard or go soft?

If you’ve considered all of the above and still want to travel with your bike then you next need to decide how to do it. Do you get a box from your local bike shop or go with a more expensive case? Should that be a hard-shell case, bag, or roll-around soft side case?

Hard bike cases offer the best protection from the type of crush damage that only maniacal airport baggage handlers seem to know how to inflict. I once watched from a plane window as a bike bag toppled off the top of a luggage train and was promptly run over by the train coming behind it. Thankfully, it wasn’t mine. There is a serious downside to hard cases though, just because they are hard. Once you get to where you’re going, you have to figure out what to do with the case. Say you do get a rental car, is there room in it for both the case and the bike once you get it out and assembled? If you’re only going to one destination, that’s not a problem, but how about a multi-stop trip? Will the bike have to be re-packed each time?

My hard case experience

On my first adventure into bike cases, I’d recently suffered a frame ding to a road bike when I’d just used a cardboard bike box on an international trip and was in the mood for maximum protection. While hard cases are typically the more expensive option, I found a cheap case at an online retailer similar to this one from Amazon and ordered it.

The case did offer fairly bulletproof protection for my bikes, but it was inflexible and heavy. Because of its size, I had to rent SUVs to haul it, and I found it discouraged me more than ever from wanting to put up with the hassle of traveling with a bike. I used it just a couple of times, and then it sat in my spare bedroom, looking ugly and taking up space. Eventually, I realized I wasn’t inclined to use it and got rid of it on Craigslist.

I switch to a Chain Reaction Cycles Pro Bike Bag

Soon after I got rid of my hard case, a chance to go to Europe and ride came up, and I once again debated whether to rent a bike there or take my own. Seeing as how I planned to ride more than three days on challenging terrain where I knew I’d be happiest on my own bike, I opted to take one and started looking at my options. After doing some research, I chose a Chain Reaction Cycles Pro Bike Bag and couldn’t be happier. Here are some of my reasons:

1) Flexibility – The greatest thing about this case is while it does have a rigid bottom with wheels to make it easy to roll around, the sides can be rolled up to make it easy to cram into a car or a closet. Now, there’s no more ugly large case in my spare bedroom. It takes up less space in a rental car, and I don’t have to re-pack my bike on trips with multiple stops.

2) Price – Chain Reaction puts an MSRP on its website of $370, but I got mine for $220, which is well below a lot of other cases. Compare it with the price of the Evoc Bike Travel Bag , which has almost identical features, and you’ll see what I mean.

3) Quality – I’ve been burned in the past ordering products that have been branded with the name of a retailer, but this is an extremely well-made case that has proven its hardiness on transatlantic flights and banging around in airports. It also comes with some unexpected bells and whistles that make it a winner.

What’s included in a Chain Reaction Cycles Pro Bike Bag

Now for some stats about the Chain Reaction Cycles Pro Bike Bag. Fully unfolded, it measures 31 inches high, 55 inches long, and 11 inches wide – which puts it within the specs of most airlines for not being classified as oversize luggage requiring an extra fee. When you roll it up, you can get the height down to about a foot.

There are zippered sleeves on either side of the inside of the case to put your wheels. If you’re running disc brakes, I’d strongly recommend you pull the discs off the wheels to keep them from getting bent. They’re going to be vulnerable to side impacts and crushing if you don’t. The sleeves are plenty big enough to take my 29er wheels with 2.2 tires, even when they’re fully inflated.

A really nice touch about this bag is it comes with a full range of axle inserts to fit almost any setup, from standard QR to thru-axles. They’re in a little pouch with each length and diameter labeled.

Inside the bag, there are what Chain Reaction calls “shock blocks” along the bottom and padding around the fork to protect the bike. There are straps and Velcro tabs to hold the frame securely in place.

I won’t go into how to pack up a bike in the case. The folks at BikeRadar have a great video that walks you through it.

Chain Reaction Cycles Pro Bike Bag Review Conclusions

I’ve used this case on a couple of trips now, and I quite like it. It has beefy zippers and carry handles, and it’s proven to be fairly lightweight and stable when I’ve had to make long walks between terminals or from parking areas. I have suffered no damage to my bikes so far. The only criticism I have is the color. Chain Reaction has made the bags rolling billboards with their blue branding with white lettering, and my case is obviously quite dirty after just a couple of uses. All luggage should be a dark color, in my opinion. Still, that’s a minor fault, and I don’t think you can beat this case for the price.

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• Bikepacking Gear

Chain Reaction Pro Bike Bag Review

by André · Published November 11, 2018 · Updated November 11, 2018

Find out if the Chain Reaction Cycle Pro Bike Bag is the right bag for you. Traveling with your bike can be a daunting task but this moderately-priced bag makes traveling with your bike a little bit easier.

Why Choose a Bike Bag Over a Bike Box

The answer is quite simple: Convenience and durability. Bike boxes are not a bad option, but they are definitely harder to pack and cumbersome to move around. For bigger riders, it can be hard to find a bike box big enough for your bike. I usually ride XL frames and finding a box is not as simple as going to a bike shop and asking for a free box. Purpose-built bike bags can be expensive, but they provide conveniences like burly carrying handles that don’t cut into your hand, and they have these amazing things called…. wheels!

Enter the Chain Reaction Cycles Pro Bike Bag. An affordable option to the bike air travel conundrum.

Chain Reaction Pro Bike Bag Main Features

Let’s start with the important features. Chain Reaction’s marketing material states that this bag was designed to fit their pro team downhill bikes, and I believe them. The Pro Bike Bag is roomy. Like I mentioned before, I ride XL frames, and I have no issues fitting my bikes inside the bag.

Several loops and velcro straps make it easy to secure your bike to the bag. This is a good thing since you want to get a snug fit so the bike doesn’t wobble inside the bag (more on this in a little bit).

Another great feature is that this bag comes with many spacers to protect your frame from being crushed inside the bag. The spacers also serve as sturdy attachment points. It’s worth noting that boost spacers are not currently provided with the bag.

In addition to the many attachment points, the Pro Bike Bag has two wheel pockets. These pockets are reinforced with a hard plastic so the axels don’t damage the bag or scratch the bike. This is a very well thought out design. I was able to fit 29 x 2.3 tires in the wheel pockets.

I’m happy to report that 27.5+ tires fit in the side wheel pockets. Unfortunately, I don’t have any 29+ tires to test.

The bag is equipped with burly handles in the front, back, and sides. The side handles make it easier to lift the bag when you need to load it into a car trunk or the belly compartment of a bus.

The rolling wheels are probably the most convenient features this Pro Bike Bag has. I just wish the wheelbase was a little wider like I have seen on some other bags. During my recent trip to Germany , TSA opened the bag and removed some of the straps that were securing the bike to the bag, making the whole bag a little wobbly. If the wheels were placed farther apart, this bag would be a lot more stable. I also wish Chain Reaction Pro Bike Bag designers would have placed the front carrying handle (used to roll the bag around) a little higher to provide more stability while using the rolling wheels.

Pros x Cons

• Affordable: Usually priced well below $300 dollars and includes free shipping to many countries.
• Sturdy construction: Good choice of materials. I appreciate the blue fabric in the interior of the bag, providing a nice contrast.
• Strap Galore: No shortage of attachment points, making it easy to secure the bike to the bag.
• Narrow wheelbase: A wider wheelbase would provide more stability when wheeling the bag around.
• Storage: When not in use, the bag folds down to a smaller size, but not as neatly as other pricier bags.

The Chain Reaction Pro Bike Bag is an affordable option to those looking for a more convenient way to travel with a bike. Even though this bag costs less than its competitors’ offerings, it is just as well-built and has some of the same features as pricier options. My only real complaint about this bag is that the wheelbase is a little narrow when compared to other more expensive bags. Premium features come at a premium price though.

I paid for this bag with my own hard-owned money. I would 100% recommend this bag to a friend looking for an affordable, yet well-built, bike bag.

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SHOP TROUTMOOSE BAGS

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• Travel Journal

The Best Bike Bags and Cases for Travels in 2023

• By : Nicholas Watts
• Updated : April 11, 2024

We are a reader supported site. We earn commissions when you buy through links on our site. Learn more.

With air travels, I often hear horror stories and seen videos where the baggage handlers treat the bike bag just like another suitcase.

One of the primary concerns most cyclists have is whether their bike makes it out from transit safely. The first thing I’d do when I pick up my bike bag at the airport is to do a quick inspection before leaving the airport.

Packing your bike in a cardboard bike box provides very little protection, and you risk it getting damaged during transit.

It’s worthwhile to invest in a bike bag, and even more importantly, know how to pack your bike correctly . No bike bag is 100% damage-proof but at least they do offer wy more protection compared to a cardboard bike box especially if the bike costs thousands.

On this page, I’ll discuss the difference between bike bags and share some of the popular ones used by cyclists to travel.

A Quick Glance : Our Favorite Bike Bags and Cases

Soft Shell Bike Bag : Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 “One of the lightest and easiest to pack bike bags.”

Hard Shell Bike Case : B&W Bike Box 2 “Value for money for a hard shell in terms of price vs the amount of protection.”

Soft Shell Bike Travel Bags

Scicon aerocomfort 3.0.

• Type of Bike : Road
• Compatibility : Quick Release, Thru Axle
• To Remove : Wheelset
• Weight : 8 kg

Scicon is arguably the most popular bike bag brand today.

It’s used by 7 out of 18 World Tour pro cycling teams in 2018 which includes the likes of Bora-Hansgrohe, Mitchelton-Scott, Bahrain-Medida, AG2R La Mondiale, and Quick-Step Floors.

The Aerocomfort 3.0 is the improved version of the very popular 2.0 version. Scicon has made several improvements based on customer feedback. The 3 most significant improvements are the addition of the thru-axles compatibility, new wheels system which was prone to breaking previously, and a reinforced internal bike mount.

It’s still without a doubt the lightest bike travel bag in the market today .

At only 8 kg, it’s even lighter than its already lightweight predecessor. With the bike packed inside, you’re definitely way below the 20 kg allowance that most airlines impose.

The thing I really liked about the Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 is the ease of packing and the minimal disassembly required. I’d say most first-timers would probably need less than 10 minutes to have their bike securely packed and ready to go.

• Pros : One of the lightest and easiest to pack bike bags.
• Cons : Smaller base can be unstable and prone to tilt over.

Evoc Bike Travel Bag

• Type of Bike : Road, TT, CX, MTB
• To Remove : Wheelset, Handlebars, Saddle, Seatpost
• Weight : 9.1 kg

Evoc is a German brand well-known for its outdoor and travel bags. This Evoc bag is among their most popular products in their lineup. The unique feature about the Evoc Bike Bag is its one bag fits all concept. The same bag can fit all bike types from road to time trial, cyclocross, and mountain bikes.

Evoc uses an interchangeable internal bike stand to mount bikes. Each type of bike would require a different type of stand due to its shape and design. If you’re buying this bag for your road bikes, make sure you remember to get the bike stand!

Packing wise, the Evoc Bike Travel Bag requires a bit more work by removing the pedals, seat posts, twisting the handlebars sideways, and removing the standard wheel.

The good thing with such removal is the bag packs down into a compact size, which makes the baggage handlers’ work easier. I bet you wouldn’t want an aggressive baggage handler handling your bags, don’t you?

• Pros : Fits all types of bikes.
• Cons : Outer layers are not as durable as advertised.

Thule Roundtrip Pro XT

• Weight : 8.6 kg

Thule is a Swedish company well known for its travel products. This mid-level bike bag has an internal bike mount that doubles up as a work stand, which will make assembling and disassembling your bike quick and easy.

Most road bikes will fit comfortably into the Thule Roundtrip Pro XT bag unless you’re riding anything above size 60, and it includes an adapter for thru-axles. It has a separate wheelset compartment so that your wheelset doesn’t come into contact with your bike frame.

The two roller wheels make it a snap to pull your bag wherever you need to go.

• Pros : Internal bike mount can double up as a temporary workstand.
• Cons : Soft case doesn’t provide 100% protection against rough baggage handlers.

Biknd Helium V4

• Weight : 9.0 kg

Biknd is a Canadian brand that is all about developing innovative bike bags. In fact, their first product is the Helium bike bag which is now in its 4th version, hence the V4.

What makes the Biknd Helium V4 special is the unique way the protection mechanism is implemented. It uses inflatable airbags that strategically placed at both sides of the bag.

Packing the bike would require some disassembly work by removing the wheels, pedals, seat posts and twisting the handlebars sideways. To make packing easier, both the side and front panels can be opened completely.

Now if you’re traveling with 2 sets of wheels, you’re in luck because the bag can fit all of them. Unlike other bags where you keep one wheel on each side panel, the Biknd Helium V4 can hold 2 wheels on each side.

• Pros : One of the best protection for a soft case.
• Cons : Costs more than the average soft case.

Hard Shell Bike Cases

B&w bike box 2.

• Weight : 11.5 kg

B&W is a German brand that has been making innovative outdoor bags since 1998. The Bike Box 2 is the successor to their original Bike Box and has won the prestigious 2018 German Design Award .

The B&W Bike Box 2 is among the lightest available. At almost 12 kg, you’ll most likely fall under the 20kg weight allowance most airlines allow.

However, take note that even though it can fit almost all types of bikes, you’d go above the allowable weight allowance should you fit a mountain bike, which is generally heavier than a road bike.

Packing is made easier with the two shells of the bag coming apart into 2 separate left and right. Once you’ve the bike disassembled, there are internal straps that hold it in place, and extra protection is achieved via the additional foam layers provided.

There’s no dedicated wheels storage compartment. B&W provides 2 separate wheel bags which are also placed inside the bag when you close it.

• Pros : Most value for money for a hard case.
• Cons : Smaller bag design means more to be removed when packing.

Thule Roundtrip Transition

• Weight : 12.0 kg

The Thule Roundtrip Transition is the hardshell equivalent of the Roundtrip Pro XT. In fact, it’s Thule’s top-level and most secure bike case.

It has a sturdy aluminum base and when combined with a strong ABS shell, it provides excellent protection to your bikes.

You can pack your road bike, TT, CX, or mountain bike with this bag, making it very versatile.

As a bonus, thru-axle adapters for 15mm and 20mm axles are included besides the standard quick release.

The unique thing about the Thule Roundtrip Transition bike case is the internal mounting stand can double up as a mobile work stand, making assembly/disassembly and maintenance easier when you’re traveling.

• Pros : Very high-quality build from a reputable brand.
• Cons : Heavier than the average hard case.

Scicon Aerotech Evolution X

• Weight : 11.0 kg

The Scicon Aerotech Evolution has been around for 10 years now and the 3.0 is Scicon’s latest version which was released in late 2017. The major improvement made in this version is adding the thru-axles compatibility.

Without a doubt, the Aerotech Evolution is Scicon’s one of the most secure bike travel cases out there. With premium pricing, Scicon has ensured no corners are cut. The bag has been thoroughly tested to ensure maximum protection for your bike.

The hard shell is made of very durable and hardened plastic, or what Scicon likes to call, thermoplastic . Internally, there is padding everywhere for your bike frame and straps strategically located to hold them in place. It would require some additional work to pack your bike into the bag.

Unlike the Aerocomfort 3.0 where only the wheels are removed, you’ll need to remove pedals, seat posts and twist the handlebars in addition to that.

You probably notice by now that most hardshell cases are bulky and heavy. While it’s still bulky (the shape and size remains), Scicon has managed to bring down the weight by 1 kg compared to its predecessor by using newer and more advanced materials.

At 11 kg, the Scicon Aerotech Evolution 3.0 is among the lightest bike case available.

• Pros : One of the lightest hard cases around and offers a very high level of protection.
• Cons : Be prepared to pay more.

BuxomBox Ventoux

BuxomBox is a small, UK-based company that specializes in bike boxes. In fact, bike boxes are their only product available.

The Ventoux Road is arguably the best one around when it comes to maximum protection. Its entire construction is top quality. With that, it also comes with a premium price tag. You’ve been warned.

For starters, the BuxomBox is made entirely from aluminum. It’s the same 6061 aluminum that’s used to make high-end aluminum race bikes. Not only do they look really good, but they’re also very durable and impact-resistant.

There are 3 sizes for you to choose from, depending on your bike size. Besides, you can also choose whether to support quick release, through-axle, or both.

With 4 handles, 2 at the top and 2 at the sides, you can maneuver the bag around the airport with ease. The 2 fixed and 2 caster wheels make things even easier.

• Pros : Good looking, lightweight, and maximum protection.
• Cons : Packing can be a chore for first-time users.

Bike Travel Cases Buying Guide

1. type of bikes.

This is the most important thing to consider when buying a bike bag or box.

The type of bike you’re planning to travel with will determine the bag’s shape and dimension and the box you’ll need.

Some newer ones like the Evoc Bike Bag , Buxom Box Ventoux , and Thule Roundtrip Transition can fit all bike types.

While it’s obvious that the bike frame of a road, cyclocross (CX) , time trial (TT), and mountain bike look different, there are more to that.

Among other differences are the handlebar’s shape, wheel hub width, and wheel size and diameter.

Geek Tip : Some bike travel cases are bike-specific, whether it’s for road, TT or mountain bike. Make sure you’re buying the right variant.

2. Quick Release vs Thru Axles

Today there are 2 types of braking systems for road bikes.

Traditionally, all road bikes use caliper brakes but disc brakes are getting popular recently for their better braking capabilities especially in the wet.

The mechanism used to attach the wheels to the bike is different between these two.

• Quick Release. The QR was invented by Tullio Campagnolo and has been around for more than 90 years. It’s a wheel locking mechanism found in all road bikes with caliper brakes.
• Thru Axles. The TA was first introduced in mountain bikes in the ’90s. Today, it’s used in all disc brakes road bikes. The axle needs to be pulled out completely to remove the wheels.

Why is this important?

The bike frame has a different design at the dropouts to accommodate either Quick Release or Thru Axles. And so does the bike bag to fit the different dropouts especially if they have an internal mounting stand.

Geek Tip : Newer travel cases are compatible with both quick release (caliper brakes) and thru axles (disc brakes) through an adaptor.

3. Ease of Packing

You’ll need to do some disassembling to pack your bike. You’ll need some of the common bike tools such as hex and torx wrenches .

The amount of disassembly needed depends on the bike travel case, but in general, this isn’t too hard to accomplish. If in doubt, you can always check out YouTube .

All bike travel cases are designed to fit bikes without the wheels, so no matter the make or model, you should expect that removal of the wheels will be necessary.

Some travel cases like the Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 require minimal disassembly, while all bike boxes require quite a number of components to be removed prior to packing.

Generally, the list below needs to be removed :

• Rear Derailleur

Geek Tip : How good you’re with the wrench is an important factor when it comes to choosing a bike bag or box that suits your needs.

4. Airline Weight Allowance

If you’re planning to fly with your bike, weight can be an important consideration. Most airlines have a check-in baggage weight allowance between 20 to 30 kg.

Bike boxes weigh more (anywhere between 12 to 18 kg) due to the hard and solid materials used.

On the other hand, bike bags weigh less, between 8 to 12kg, and can be carried more easily when you’re on the move.

Depending on your bike’s weight, you’ll probably end up with around 16 to 25kg baggage check-in weight.

Bike Bags vs Bike Cases : Which is Better?

You’ll often see cyclists pack their bikes either in a bike bag or a bike case. So you’d probably be wondering;

Which one is better to transport for you?

Bike bag or bike case?

• Bike Case is the harder version and provides the most protection for your bike and is very durable. They’re made from tough materials like thermoplastics. It’s also sometimes referred to as a hard case or hard shell.
• Bike Bag is the softer version that typically has internal structures to maintain the bag’s shape and protect your bike. The soft outer sides are made from nylon or canvas which could be vulnerable to tears over time. Some refer to it as soft shellbags.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which bike bag can fit my road, TT, and mountain bikes?

I understand that some of us have a few bikes and the bike we travel with depends on the type of riding we’re going to do.

In this situation, I recommend you consider a bike bag that is one size fits all. Generally, these bike bags don’t have internal mounts which limits your choice of bikes.

Have a look at the Biknd Helium V4 or the B&W International Bike Box 2 .

2. How do I provide additional protection to my bike on top of what’s provided by the bike bag or box?

There are several ways to do this. You can either,

• Buy additional foam paddings and wrap them around the top tube, down tube, seat stays, and fork. 
• Use a cable tie to tie the chain to the chainring to avoid it from falling off.
• Remove the rear derailleur if it gets in the way.

3. What is the lightest bike bag and box available today?

Many cyclists concur that the Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 is the lightest bike bag today. At only 8 kg, you’ll have plenty of weight allowance left to pack your bike.

For the bike box, you can choose from either the Scicon Aerotech 3.0 or the B&W International Bike Box 2 .

Author Recommended Reads

• How to Pack Your Bike for Air Travels
• How to Ship A Bike and How Much Will it Cost?

Nicholas Watts

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Best mountain bike travel bag: boxes and cases to keep your bike protected when you fly

• Danny Milner
• September 6, 2022

The best mountain bike travel bags can make flying with your bike a less stressful experience and ensure your pride and joy is in good shape when you get to your destination. 

Going on a riding holiday can be an amazing experience, and with so many great destinations just a short flight away, there’s never been more opportunities to expand your mountain biking horizon.

But do you leave your rig at home and take a chance on the hire bike lottery – often expensive and the quality of machinery can be rather questionable – or do you go take your own bike and suffer the stress of navigating through the airport and praying that it doesn’t get damaged by the baggage handlers?

Investing in a good bike bag will definitely ease your journey to and around the airport as well as protecting your bike from potential damage.

Chain Reaction Cycles Pro Bike Bag

Low-cost alternative to the classic evoc.

Weight: 8.8kg | Size: 1,400mm x 280mm x 790mm | Folding: Yes | Rating: 8/10

Pros: Great value. Includes dropout spacers and internal organisation. Folds for storage.

Cons: Narrow wheel track makes it less stable than rivals when manoeuvring.

Chain Reaction’s in-house bike bag is obviously, ahem, inspired by the classic Evoc design, but the price is a lot more palatable. It’s big enough to take a modern 29in enduro bike with a wheelbase of up to 1,360mm – more if you let the air out of the suspension. Internal fixings keep the frame and fork stable while CRC usefully includes dropout spacers to prevent crush damage.

Read our full review of the Chain Reaction Cycles Pro Bike Bag

Evoc Bike Travel Bag

The original and still the best.

Weight: 8.6kg | Size: 1,380mm x 360mm x 850mm | Folding: Yes | Rating: N/A

Pros: Great quality. One of the most stable designs. Folds for storage.

Cons: Expensive if you only use it occasionally.

The OG bike travel bag and still the best today, if your pockets are deep enough. Evoc actually makes several different bike bags, but for most people the basic version is the one to get. Separate wheel pockets are large enough for 29in hoops (with tyres partially deflated) and the frame is cosseted snugly by a series of blocks and straps to stop movement and rubbing. It’s all adjustable to fit different frame sizes and designs and has proven itself durable on numerous trips we’ve undertaken. The wheel track is broad, so the Evoc Bike Bag is one of the more stable designs on the market.

Scott Bike Transport Premium 2.0 Bag

Semi-rigid design.

Weight: 8.7kg | Size: 1,380mm x 300mm x 800mm | Folding: Yes | Rating: N/A

Pros: Internal pockets for organising parts.

Cons: Shorter length makes it tricky for long wheelbases.

Scott’s take on Evoc’s classic bike bag design sees thin aluminium poles maintain the upper shape – a bit like tent poles. Inside there’s a series of adjustable straps and blocks to hold the bike in place and separate compartments house the wheels (up to 29in). Maximum wheelbase is only 1,280mm, which is a bit less than rivals, but letting the air out of your suspension will help a bigger bike squeeze in.

Cardboard box

Weight: From 2kg | Size: Varies | Folding: Yes | Rating: N/A

Pros: Cheap/free. Eco-friendly.

Cons: Awkward to transport/carry. Not great if it rains. Requires more disassembly and packing material.

How can we round-up the best bike travel bags without including the humble cardboard box? Afterall, it’s good enough for shipping a bike from the factory to the retailer, and favoured by all of the downhill racers on the World Cup circuit when flying between rounds. Best thing about the bike box is that it’s cheap. And if you ask nicely at your local bike shop (paying in biscuits always helps) they’ll probably give you one for free. Which, considering the price of some bike bags is over £400, means you’re effectively saving a big chunk towards the cost of your holiday. But, this option is not without its problems. The biggest of which is that a bike box is huge and unwieldy. Fine if you have help and can use a trolley at either end of the journey, a massive pain if you can’t. Then there’s the fact that you’ll need to pack it carefully with loads of protection to keep everything from being damaged. And if it rains you might end up with a pile of soggy cardboard and an exposed bike.

What to look for in the best travel bags for mountain biking

Evoc pretty much revolutionised the bike bag market with its benchmark design nearly 20 years ago and still holds the gold standard for frequent flyers. Since then, the basic Evoc design has won numerous awards and inspired many competitors, but it remains a serious investment.

At the other end of the scale, the humble bike box represents the cheapest – even free – solution and is still favoured by pro mountain bike racers. However, it’s not the slickest or most convenient method if you need to use public transport.

Whichever you choose, it might be worth investing in an Apple Airtag to attach to your bike or hide in the bag, so if the worst does happen and your bike bag goes missing, at least you can track it.

Pack a bike travel bag

Top of the list of priorities when looking for the perfect travel bag is protection, afterall, a bag can be super light and easy to wheel through the airport, but if your bike ends up as scrap after a flight then it’s a complete waste of time. So the base needs to be tough, the corners need to be reinforced and the material needs to be abrasion and puncture resistant. Internally, the frame should be securely stabilised within the bag, the wheels should be separate and there should be provision for small parts that get removed from the bike such as the rear mech, disc rotors, handlebar and pedals.

Although you can get hard case designs, we would only recommend these for XC race bikes and road bikes as they tend to be too small for modern mountain bikes. They’re also more difficult to store at home as you can’t fold or roll them up.

How do I pack a bike bag?

• There are many different ways to pack a bike, but for ultimate safety and protection, we’d recommend removing the disc rotors and storing them in a separate (clean) plastic bag. Use pad spacers in your calipers to stop the pistons from moving. Think about chucking a spare set of pads in the bag as well, particularly if you’re heading somewhere with long descents.
• Remove the rear mech and the hanger together. If it’s a SRAM UDH then we’d leave it in place as you’ll need it to secure the rear axle between the dropouts. Wrap the rear mech in an old t-shirt or rag and secure with a strap.
• Cut two dropout spacers from lightweight alloy or plastic tubing (from a plumber’s merchant) and use the front and rear axle to hold them in place – this protects the frame from being crushed.
• Mark your bars with a permanent pen at the gap between the stem and the faceplate – this will let you set the angle easily when you build the bike up at the other end. Remove the faceplate, drop the bars out (with controls in place) and reinstall the faceplate so you don’t lose the bolts. Alternatively you can remove the stem and bars in one piece and use another stem (150g or so) or a spacer cut from a plastic pipe in its place to keep the fork and headset in place.
• Use bike packing material (your local bike shop probably has surplus being thrown out) to pad the frame, fork and bars.
• Deflate your tyres slightly. This will help them fit into their compartments and adhere to airline advice.

Manoeuvrability

The best bike travel bags are relatively easy to steer around a crowded airport given their weight and bulk. Large, robust skate wheels at one end allow you to wheel the bag around while holding a comfortable handle at the front. Widely-spaced wheels and a low centre of gravity help prevent the bag from tipping over when cornering. Some bags have a third castor wheel at the front to allow you to pull it along without having to lift the front.

Weight is always a concern when travelling with a bike, especially given most trail/enduro bikes now tip the scales at around 15kg on average. Evoc’s bike bags weigh around 8-10kg, so that doesn’t leave a lot of headway to sneak under airline baggage limits. Obviously different airlines have different rules and different price structures for carrying bikes, but here are a few of the most popular:

• Easyjet – Bikes are treated as ‘Large Sports Equipment’ with a weight limit of 32kg. Cost is £45 each way if booked online.
• British Airways – charges £65 each way for any bag over 23kg, which includes bikes up to 32kg. Your standard baggage allowance depends on the route you are flying.
• Ryanair – The maximum weight for a bike is 30kg, lower than other airlines. Cost per flight is £60.
• Air Canada – Maximum weight is 32kg and a bike costs $50CAD each way.

With the advent of longer wheelbases and 29in wheels bike bag size has increasingly become an issue, especially if you’re riding an XL size or larger, or own something like a Pole or Geometron. But, letting the air out of your fork and shock could reduce the wheelbase of your bike by as much as 70mm.

With 29in wheels you will probably need to deflate the tyres to some degree to get them to fit into their specific compartments. Try to leave some air in there to ensure that your tyres don’t become unseated or leak sealant into the bag.

Best bike bags and boxes for cycling travel 2024

Protect your bike and reduce stress when you travel with one of these best bike bags and boxes

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The quick list

• 1. Best overall
• 2. Easy to use
• 3. Best value
• 4. Most portable
• 5. Most versatile
• 6. Most robust

How we test

Best bike bags and boxes 2024

The list in brief ↴ 1. Best overall 2. Easy to use 3 . Best value 4. Most portable 5. Most versatile 6. Most robust

Advice How we test

Riding new roads and exploring different places bathed in warm sunshine is one of the great joys of cycling, but getting you and your bike there safely can be the most stressful part of a cycling holiday . Some riders choose to hire a bike whilst on holiday, but for others, part of the attraction is the opportunity to ride their familiar bike up famous climbs or through beautiful landscapes - no one wants a week of cycling spoiled by an ill-fitting bike or uncomfortable saddle.

If you decide to fly with your own bike, then you have the choice of using a hard box or a soft bag, each with pros and cons which we will investigate below. If you choose to drive to your destination instead, however, you can read our guides to the best bike racks for cars  and the  best caravan and motorhome bike racks .

Best overall

The AeroComfort's soft exterior houses a metal structure to which you fasten your frame so it's held securely. There is very little disassembly required and as the bag is pretty light there is plenty of potential to pack extra kit inside and still be within your airline's limits.

Read more below

Best for ease of use

As the Evoc Bike Bag is soft, it's light and easy to store when not in use. There is plenty of padding provided to protect your bike when it's in the bag, and the large side opening makes it simple to put the bike in place.

Best value 

Very light and compact, LifeLine's EVA Bike Pod also offers excellent value for money. Its semi-rigid design offers more protection than a soft bag but they are still quite flexible and as it only has two wheels it can be a little awkward to manoeuvre around an airport.

Most portable

Another light option, the Orucase B2 even includes rucksack-style straps which are handy if you have packed very light. There is a fair bit of disassembly required though and it can feel a bit lopsided when wheeling it around.

Best with integrated stand

Thule's RoundTrip Pro XT bike bag uses an internal frame that can also double as a workstand whilst on holiday, which is very handy. It's more of a reinforced bag than a hard case though and as such is quite pricey.

Most robust

One of the heavier boxes available, the VeloVault2 provides very reassuring protection for your bike. Its quality construction and overall sturdiness will ensure that your lightweight carbon frame should emerge unscathed, but there might not be much weight allowance left once this gets on the scales.

Best bike bags and boxes for cycling travel: Our picks

Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 Bike Bag

1. Scicon AeroComfort 3.0 Road Bike Travel Bag

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The AeroComfort 3.0 from Scicon is a firm favorite among the Cycling Weekly tech team. We've flown test bikes all over the world, and we like to use this carry case because it makes travelling by bike easy, hassle-free and incredibly quick. It takes just 15 minutes to pack the bike away, and even less time to put it back together.

How so? The outside is a soft, fabric bag, but inside you'll find a metal structure. You simply remove the wheels, loop your chain over a specially designed T-bar and use your quick releases to stand the bike on the metal frame, so it's immovable inside and thus a lot more secure. It couldn't be easier.

There's no need to remove anything aside from the wheels, the handlebars stay straight and don't need twisting. This does make the front end quite bulky, but we found that the protection is good, with a thick soft fabric, designated pockets for wheels, helmets and shoes, and most importantly the rear derailleur is kept off the ground. 

Read more: Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 Road Bike Travel Bag full review

Evoc bike travel bag

2. Evoc Bike Travel Bike Bag

Whilst hard cases give the ultimate reassurance that your bike is well protected, they also take up a lot of room when out of use, and, they're heavy - limiting your ability to pack kit alongside your bike and stay within airline limits.

Enter soft cases, and this Evoc bike bag is an excellent option. Yes, it offers less protection - but the Cycling Weekly team has used it to transport press bikes on plenty of occasions (NB, we once even used a cardboard box for a personal bike, the theory is that baggage handlers will be more careful!).

This Evoc Bike bag excels in terms of ease of use, too. The side opening makes getting the bike in a cinch, and the handy Velcro makes getting the parts in the right place a piece of cake. The newer model reviewed here now has a reinforced front zip, meaning it should last longer.

Read more: Evoc bike travel bike bag full review

LifeLine EVA Bike Pod

3. LifeLine EVA Bike Pod

Although it's a reasonably compact bike box, the LifeLine Bike Pod will take a smaller-sized bike without too much disassembly. It rolls on two rear wheels, with two front feet to stand on. Quick-release wheels, although not wheels with thru-axles, can be secured to the outside of the case.

Our tester found that the LifeLine Bike Pod is relatively easy to move around, although since you have to lift the front end and the carrying handle doesn't let you wrap your hand through it, longer carries can be tiring. 

The sides of the bag are quite flexible, so it would be advisable to wrap wheels and frame well inside to prevent crushing. We were also concerned about how robust the feet would be and how well the zip would stand repeated use, but overall, the LifeLine Bike Pod is a relatively inexpensive option for the less frequent flyer.

Read more: LifeLine EVA Bike Pod full review

Orucase B2 Bike Travel Case

4. Orucase B2 Bike Travel Case

We've taken the B2 bike case on several domestic and international flights and were left impressed. It sports many welcomed features, including backpack straps and a rollable chassis. Combined with its compact, space-saving size it makes for a sleek, highly portable and trustworthy bag that we think is a great option if space is limited or you'll be traveling on serval modes of transport during your trip.

We did find that it's not the easiest to pack, and required some disassembling of your bike - so you'll need to be confident of putting your bike back together once you've arrived. It's also far from cheap, but in our opinion, it's likely a worthy investment given the ease of portability and the posibbility to save on extra fees due to its smaller size.

Read more: Orucase B2 Bike Travel Case full review

Most versatile

Thule Round Trip Pro XT bike bag

5. Thule RoundTrip Pro XT Bike Bag

The Thule RoundTrip Pro XT falls into the not-quite-a-bike-bag category. It's a softshell but has some structural implants that should keep your bike safe through the worst of it.

However, the bag does have some weak areas and for the price you pay this doesn't induce confidence. But, maybe we're being picky. This is a solid purchase, undoubtedly, and we always add extra bubble wrap around our frames, whatever we're packing them into.

The base, which holds the bike static in the case, can have three legs added, transforming it into a workstand for when you get to your destination - which is a rather 'nice to have' too.

Read more: Thule RoundTrip Pro XT review

Blue Velovault2 bike box

6. VeloVault2 bike box

We really liked the VeloVault2 bike box when we had it in for test. It's big and robust, which is what many cyclists need to achieve peace of mind when flying with a bike.

However, weighing in at 12.5kg means it should sneak under most airline weight controls. The company has sweated the small stuff, too: the clasps are quality, it's easy to close and it rolls well.

VeloVault2 bike box has a new carrying handle, longer wheelbase, improved strut design and it is roof box ready. Oh, and it's now bright blue... other colours are available if that's not to your liking.

Read more: VeloVault2 full review

How do I pack a bike into a bike bag or box?

Packing the bike into the bag or box sometimes takes quite a bit more effort than expected. The process may differ slightly depending on the specific box or bag, but the general process goes something like:

- Remove the pedals - Partially deflate tires and remove the wheels - Remove the seatpost and saddle - Remove the handlebar from the stem or remove the handlebar and stem together from the steerer - Undo rear derailleur (but leave it on the chain) - Secure the frame and components in the box via the manufacturer-approved method - Pack the tools required to rebuild the bike!

There are a few more mechanical adjustments you might make, and if you’re handy with a spanner they shouldn't cause too much grief. For example, you might have to remove the chainset. This will keep it protected en route but it’s worth bearing in mind that you’ll have to reassemble it when you arrive on your hols, so if you're no spanner wizard it might be best to avoid this. It may also mean packing extra tools, which means extra weight to carry around.

Best bike bags vs best bike boxes: which is better?

You might think this is an easy question: it's surely a box, right? However, that's probably before you’ve taken weight into consideration.

A lighter weight bike bag influences two things: how comfortable it is to carry and lug about but also how much of your baggage allowance it eats into - and how much the baggage supplement might be.

The trade off is in the level of protection: a hard flight case like box is going to take the knocks better than a soft bag. That said, soft bike bags will usually protect your bike from the worst of it and they also tend to be cheaper than bike boxes.

There is an in between option. The best bike bags tend to have some more structural inserts inside but retain more of a bag's lightweight nature. Other bike bags can have nifty, in-built storage techniques. For example, some have built-in dropouts that allow you to stand your frame upright and hold it tight.

Do I need to add extra padding to my bike bag?

Regardless of how tough your bag or box might be, you’ll definitely want to pad the important parts inside it. We’d recommend bubble wrap and foam piping. If you’re lucky, your local bike shop might have excess from all the bikes they get sent in. Don't forget to put it around the frame in places where other items in the box might rub against it.

Riding in the mountains

A good bike box or bag has to tread the line between providing the best protection for your bike and yet still being light, easy to carry and simple to pack. These boxes have been used to carry various bikes on multiple flights, being packed and unpacked several times each. They all protected the bikes from any transport damage and none were particularly difficult or awkward to pack but each has its advantages and disadvantages that may clinch the deal for you.

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Simon Smythe is a hugely experienced cycling tech writer, who has been writing for Cycling Weekly since 2003. Until recently he was our senior tech writer. In his cycling career Simon has mostly focused on time trialling with a national medal, a few open wins and his club's 30-mile record in his palmares. These days he spends most of his time testing road bikes, or on a tandem doing the school run with his younger son.

'Knocking people just because they're not winning, or they're not beating this phenomenal guy… Give over,' says Welshman

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Best bike bags 2024: Bags, boxes and cases that will protect your bike when you fly

The best bike bags to protect your pride and joy from heavy-handed baggage handlers

Best for roadies

Best for minimal disassembly, best for integrated handlebars.

• Best for MTB and road bike users

Integrated repair stand

Best budget bike box.

• Best for airbag protection

Best for low weight

• Best simple hardcase

Easy to manouvre

• How to choose

How we test

Quick list 1. Best for roadies 2. Best for minimal disassembly 3. Best for integrated handlebars 4. Best for MTB/road bike users 5. Best for an integrated repair stand 6. Best budget box 7. Best for airbag protection 8. Best for low weight 9. Best simple hardcase 10. Best for the nervous traveller How to choose How we test

The best bike bags, bike boxes, and travel cases for bikes are incredibly well-designed these days. 

Many cyclists travel abroad with their bikes for holidays or to compete. This means flying with your bike which can be a daunting proposition. Most of us have heard horror stories of riders opening their bike bag to find a damaged bike inside after a flight. Choosing the right bike bag or rigid travel case or box will ensure your bike is protected and will make your journey easier , meaning you can relax and just enjoy riding. 

Another thing you might want to consider while travelling with your bike is an insurance option. Even with one of the best bike bags things do occasionally happen. We have a list of the best bike insurance options, some of which cover your bike even when travelling, so if the unthinkable happens and your bike doesn't arrive in one piece, you'll want to have insurance in place to help ease the blow. 

You might also want to check out our list of the best bike torque wrenches . Modern bike components have specific torque specs and some of the options on our list will require some disassembly of your bike before use. Don't get caught at your destination without the tools you need to ensure your bike goes back together exactly how it's meant to. 

With those considerations in mind, please keep reading to see our list of the best bike travel cases and the best bike travel bags available today. We have flown with many of the bike bags in this guide, so that we can properly review packing procedures and durability on a flight. 

Best bike bags, travel cases and boxes: quick list

The Evoc Pro holds a road bike with pedals and wheels removed. A hard upper section adds protection.

Read more below

Popular with the pros, the Scicon AeroComfort just needs you to remove your wheels to be ready to go.

Bike Box Alan's largest box, the Tri Aero Easyfit will accept bars up to 50cm wide without disassembly.

Very large capacity means that this PRO bike bag can fit any type of bike with room to spare.

Bikes need disassembly to pack, but this Thule bag has an integrated workstand to make reassembly easier.

This B&W box makes packing easy, it closes with velcro and there are no latches or hinges to break.

Best bike bags, travel cases and boxes

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

1. Evoc Road Bike Bag Pro

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Road Bike Bag Pro pairs a soft lower and hardcase upper to offer protection without being too heavy. It includes an aluminium tray inside that attaches to the axles of the bike inside the bag, holding it secure and out of harm's way when in transit. This can double up as a workstand too, if you remove the pedals. 

To pack, only the pedals and wheels need to come off, and the saddle may need lowering. Then the frame is secured with a range of Velcro straps and purpose-built padding, the wheels go into individual wheel bags, and there's plenty of space to fill with kit, which doubles up as extra protection. 

There are internal pockets for tools and pedals, as well as an external pocket for the roller-skate-style wheel, which can be removed to prevent damage. 

The internal braces that add structure to the soft lower half are necessary, but they are stiff, so can hurt your hands when trying to get them in and out. The stitching between the upper and lower might also need care, as ours has started to show signs of wear. 

Despite that though, this is still the best bike travel case if you want to avoid any wasted time on your trip. Just check out our Instagram reel for how quickly Josh can unpack his bike for proof. 

Read more details in our full Evoc Road Bike Bag Pro review.

2. Scicon AeroComfort 3.0 Road Bike Travel Bag

The beauty of the Scicon AeroComfort 3.0 TSA is you can pack your bike without turning a single bolt (unless you have thru-axles); all you have to do is remove the wheels. 

With a rigid Frame Defender metal base, the bike slots in using your quick-release or thru-axles, and comes with plenty of additional padding and a gear bag that's secured to the base under the downtube. 

At 9kg empty, the bike straps into the bag securely, and the 360-degree wheels allow for easy one-handed dragging. With all of that said, we’ve seen baggage handlers stack Scicon bags upside down on baggage carts on multiple occasions so they won’t roll away, so consider some additional padding for your handlebars and shifters.

Read more details in our full Scicon AeroComfort 3.0 TSA review.

3. Bike Box Alan Triathlon Aero Easyfit

Bike Box Alan makes a number of hard case bike boxes in Yorkshire, UK. The Triathlon Aero easy fit is the largest bike box the company produces and with a max width of 50cm means there is no need to disassemble the front end of your bike to pack it into the box. 

All that is required is to remove your wheels and pedals and you're good to go, making this box a great option for time trial or triathlon bikes, road bikes with more complex integrated handlebars or cable routing or for people who just don't want the extra hassle. 

The boxes are available in six different colours, we tested the red version. You can also choose customisable stickers and the box carries a 7-year manufacturing warranty as well as a range of spare parts. 

You can read more details in our full Triathlon Aero Easyfit review.

Best for MTB and Road

4. PRO Mega Bike Travel Case

With room to easily swallow road, TT and mountain bikes , the Pro Bike Mega Case is huge and features an aluminium base frame which connects to your bike at the axles. With so much room inside the case, the seatpost doesn't need to be removed, just lowered, and in most cases, you can get away with simply spinning your bars.

The inside of the bag has plenty of well-padded provisions to hold your frame securely, and even with the four 360-degree wheels at the bottom, the bag tracks easily in a straight line but it can be cumbersome in crowded baggage claim areas or train stations. 

The outer fabric seems to mark a bit in transit, however, it's robust and weighing a hair over 8kg you should be able to get your bike and a bit of extra gear inside before you tip into overweight baggage territory.

5. Thule Roundtrip bike travel hard case

There are some bike travel cases that require a lot of disassembly and others that don't. The Thule Roundtrip Bike Travel Case falls into the category that requires taking things apart but they've been smart to embrace the concept. Parts of the bag that add support and protection come out and assemble into a work stand. There's even a clever triangle that you rotate to match your desired front axle standard. 

You can use the work stand to keep the bike supported and at a comfortable working height while you either get it ready to travel or get it ready to ride. It's a good enough work stand that although we have a list of the best bike repair stands you might be able to get away with a two for one purchase if you aren't much of a home mechanic. 

6. B&W International Bike Box II

Sometimes simple is best, and that's precisely what the B&W International Bike Box II has to offer. There are no complicated packing procedures - instead, you get a few layers of foam to protect the frame from the wheels and box, and it all fits inside two interlocking plastic sides.

The clamshell design utilises six self-tightening Velcro buckles to prevent the case from slipping open, and it features a surprising number of handles given the design. B&W International has updated the case with a new plastic designed to flex and not crack, and there are no latches or hinges to break.

With room for up to a 62cm frame, the case rolls on four wheels, two fixed and two free rotating and weighs 11kg with the included padding.

Integrated airbags

7. Biknd Helium V4

Using unique inflatable partitions and strategically placed rigid reinforcements, the Biknd Helium V4 is one of the most well-padded cases of the bunch. With the ability to carry two wheelsets, the Helium bag puts two airbags on either side to absorb impacts while the rigid base and front cover protect fragile handlebar components.

The bag opens flat to simplify packing, and the bike connects to the frame at the axles. There are special compartments for your pump, helmet and shoes and sturdy end caps to prevent hubs from poking through the bag.

Even with the airbags, the Helium is not all that light tipping the scales a 9kg, but it does offer considerably more padding than any other soft case.

8. OruCase B2

While many airlines are abandoning the extra fees for checking bikes, some still haven't taken note, and that's where the OruCase B2 comes in handy. Travelling with the OruCase B2, when asked by desk agents what's in the bag we've told them everything from massage tables and trade show gear, to 'it's just a really weird duffel bag’ — just make sure you’re not wearing a bike t-shirt, trust us.  

The OruCase sneaks in under most airlines’ maximum external dimensions limits for baggage and features plastic armour panels that are backed by foam to keep your ride safe. You'll need to remove your pedals, handlebars, front brake, fork and seatpost, and the bag is still a tight fit, but it comes in two sizes to fit a range of frames.  

Weighing in at under 7kg empty, there is plenty of free weight for you to fill the bag with riding clothes (which also work great as extra padding), and there are plush backpack straps to help you get around with minimal fuss.

Best for simplicity

9. Bike Box Alan Original Premium

The Bike Box Alan Premium is a hard case box that claims to fit road bikes up to 65cm in size. Our 58cm test bike had plenty of room to spare, so we're confident the claim is true. It is a super sturdy, hard-wearing box that comes with a seven-year warranty. 

The solid plastic case takes the brunt of all heavy-handed impacts while your bike is in transit, and the inclusion of an anti-crush pole prevents lateral pressure on your chainstays and forks, should your chosen airline decide to stack your bike at the bottom of the pile. There is a weight penalty, however - an empty box weighs in at 11.2kg. 

Two layers of foam padding prevent damage from within, and the myriad Velcro straps and internal instructions make packaging a straightforward process. 

Removal of your handlebars, seatpost, wheels, pedals, and rear derailleur is required, which does take up some of your precious ride time but for the protection on offer, it's a sacrifice worth making. 

10. Topeak PakGo X

The Topeak PakGo X is a bit like the kind of carry-on luggage you'd recognize on every flight except it's super-sized. Once packed the bike sits with the fork facing the ground and the tail of the bike up in the air. This means a more upright outer silhouette that's easier to manoeuvre.

More important than the orientation of the bike though is the well-thought-out protection. There are a number of protective elements and each one has a label on it. As you are packing it's easy to find which piece goes where and every part of the bike is both protected and securely held to avoid movement in transit. You will need to remove the bar and stem, saddle and seatpost, rear derailleur, and wheels but there's a place for everything. 

The one thing to be aware of is the weight of the case. Topeak lists the weight as 10 Kg for the case only but that's not how you'll use it. Instead, you'll want to look at the 12.8 Kg weight that includes all the protective pieces. Unless you have a lightweight road bike it's unlikely you will avoid overweight fees. 

Read more details in our full Topeak Pakgo X Bike Carrier review.

What to look for in bike bags, travel cases and boxes

There are quite a few considerations when choosing the best bike bag or case for your bike. We'll break these down below, to help you to make an informed choice of the best bike bag for your needs.

Hard or soft shell?

Hardshell bike travel cases were the best way to travel with a bike for quite some time; however, engineers at bike brands are pretty clever and softshell bags are nearly on par for protection, weigh less, and often have removable ribbing so they can be neatly rolled up for storage. 

How much does empty weight matter?

With a plastic base, wheels, internal skeleton, and robust materials, bike travel cases are heavy before you put anything inside, and some are pudgier than others. 

Most airlines will give you 23kg / 50lbs before they hit you with an exorbitant overweight baggage fee, some budget airlines even less. If your bag weighs 12kg empty, when you pack a 6.8kg lightweight road bike, shoes and a track pump you'll be nudging up against that limit. 

What size do I need?

Are you just looking to travel with just your road bikes, or will you be taking trips with your mountain bike too? Are you riding an aero road bike with integrated handlebars or TT bars? Are you riding an XL frame? 

These are all things to take into account when shopping for a bike bag because some of the more compact options are simply too small for certain bikes and frame sizes.

Do I need to disassemble my bike?

No bike bag will take your bike fully assembled, but some require considerably more disassembly and mechanical acumen than others. At the very least you’ll have to pop your wheels off, but some bags also require you to remove your seat post, handlebars, and even the fork. 

That's going to cut into riding or relaxing time once you get to your destination and require you to carry more tools to rebuild your bike. As mentioned above, a torque wrench is essential if you're going to have to reassemble delicate components.

Do I need to worry about wheels and handles?

For something designed to help you move around with a bike in tow, bike travel cases and bike bags can be, unsurprisingly, awkward and cumbersome to move around with. 

If you want to avoid a back injury, a set of wheels should be a minimum requirement, especially if you're walking much after you land - some bike bags even use easily replaceable roller blade wheels, as they're prone to damage when being loaded and unloaded. 

In addition, you'll want plenty of handles to help you hoist your bag onto a conveyor belt or into the back of a car.

Do I need to remove my derailleurs and rotors?

Take them off. Just about every bike bag out there comes with some sort of protection for your rear derailleur and brake rotors, but airlines have a knack for rendering them ineffective. 

Learn from our mistakes and just take them off. The last thing you want is to start your holiday with a bent rotor or a broken derailleur hanger. If you are removing disc-brake rotors, don't forget to put a brake block in the caliper to prevent the pads sticking together or the pistons getting stuck - in a pinch, a folded over business card works, too.

What's the fastest way to get my bike back together?

Saddle height and bar roll aren’t something you often think about until either one is a little bit off, and the last thing you want to do on your riding vacation is to pull over constantly and faff with minor adjustments. A couple of dots and lines with a paint pen will allow you to replicate your preferred position on the bike first try, every time.

Should I add extra padding?

Yes, we have just spent the last few hundred words saying how great the best bike travel cases, bags and boxes are, but there's nothing wrong with a bit of added peace of mind. 

Some bags come with foam tubing, however pipe insulation is perfect for an extra layer of protection. You can also pop into your local bike shop, and if you ask nicely, they're likely to have plenty of spare packaging from a newly unboxed bike.

If you have a few spare kilos in your bike bag once it's packed, throw your shoes, riding clothes, bars and gels and whatever else will fit without tipping your bag over the limit. If you've paid for 23kg / 50lbs, you may as well use it, although be aware that some airlines stipulate that a bike bag should contain nothing but your bike.

Do I need to deflate my tyres?

When you’re packing your bike, take a second to let the air out of your tyres. Airlines don’t allow anything pressurised into the cargo hold because it violates civil aviation safety regulations.

Before the engineering types slide into the comments, yes we know that the cargo hold is pressurised to ~10,000ft which will only add ~3-4psi to your tyres, and it’s extremely unlikely a tyre will burst in transit.

The reason you need to take this step, is because if you do send your bike through with the tyres inflated, there is the distinct possibility that an airline employee will pull your bag aside and attempt to deflate them. At the very least, it'll mean someone heavy-handedly rummaging through your neatly packed case, but we’ve heard horror stories of bags and tyres cut.

Avoid the drama and just let the air out. If you're running tubeless, drop them to a reasonable PSI that won't result in a sealant shower. 

Is there anything else I should consider?

If you need to remove your handlebars , put the faceplate back on your stem so you don't lose the four bolts. 

If you need to remove your stem, refit the top cap, then a zip tie around the steerer will keep your fork, headset and spacers from rattling loose. Be careful not to damage the steerer when cutting the zip tie off. 

If you have Di2, unplug the battery. At the very least, it'll save some battery life, but it may also prevent your tightly packed derailleurs from shifting in transit and overworking the motor. 

If you have an internal seatpost wedge clamp, remove and pack it safely. You don't want to spend the first hour of your trip fishing it out of your frame.

Take a spare derailleur hanger with you. For the price, it's worth having a spare anyway, not least when thousands of miles from home. 

Some airlines will let CO2 cartridges through, but others will stop the bike and remove them. If you're going to risk it, make them easy to find so the baggage handler doesn't have to empty your entire bag. 

If you're using zip ties to hold things in place, you'll need cable cutters or scissors in your case for unpackaging at the other end. You'll also need more ties for the return journey. Maybe pack a screwdriver that'll allow you to undo the zip ties without cutting them. Not only does it save you zip ties, it saves the planet from a little bit of single-use plastic. 

Take your tools. If you're having to disassemble your bike to fit it in the box, you'll need to reassemble it at the other end - make a note of the tools used and don't forget to pack them. Especially your torque wrench. You don't want a 90km/h descent of Alpe d'Huez with badly torqued carbon handlebars. 

Bottles are a great hardshell for storing potentially damaging things - e.g. allen keys, or items that will pop if crushed - gels, suncream, toothpaste. Wrap them in a carrier bag, though, or you might have oddly flavoured water on your first ride. Shoes are equally useful for this. 

If you've got space in the bike bag, wrap your cycling kit in plastic bags and fill the gaps. Not only does this leave room in your other bag, it will act as padding. 

Don't forget food. Your riding holiday is likely going to involve increased mileage, and speaking from experience, you can't always trust the local tuna sandwich. 

The crew at Cyclingnews is a dedicated group of cyclists who, just like you, care deeply about their bikes. When we travel, we have to trust baggage handlers just like you. 

We're lucky to be able to travel a lot in the course of sharing all kinds of relevant cycling technology with you, so we take the opportunity to try out different cases and hope we get a working bike back at the other end. 

Every experience informs the next and we are sharing a collection of options we think are the best available for a whole range of different needs. 

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Based on the Gold Coast of Australia, Colin has written tech content for cycling publication for a decade. With hundreds of buyer's guides, reviews and how-tos published in Bike Radar, Cyclingnews, Bike Perfect and Cycling Weekly, as well as in numerous publications dedicated to his other passion, skiing. 

Colin was a key contributor to Cyclingnews between 2019 and 2021, during which time he helped build the site's tech coverage from the ground up. Nowadays he works full-time as the news and content editor of Flow MTB magazine. 

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Pro Bike Travel Case

At road.cc every product is thoroughly tested for as long as it takes to get a proper insight into how well it works. Our reviewers are experienced cyclists that we trust to be objective. While we strive to ensure that opinions expressed are backed up by facts, reviews are by their nature an informed opinion, not a definitive verdict. We don't intentionally try to break anything (except locks) but we do try to look for weak points in any design. The overall score is not just an average of the other scores: it reflects both a product's function and value – with value determined by how a product compares with items of similar spec, quality, and price.

Good scores are more common than bad, because fortunately good products are more common than bad.

• Exceptional
• Not so good

The Pro Bike Travel Case is a soft bag that's full of nice touches to make packing your bike away for travel easy, but it suffers terribly from poor construction and just can't go the distance.

Check out our guide to the best bike boxes and bike bags for more (robust) options.

The Pro case follows the template of many other soft bike bags, with a solid base with wheels on, a foam padded body that's resistant to both water and baggage handling abuse, an internal frame to secure your bike to once a level of disassembly has occurred, sleeves and pockets to put wheels and bits in, and a bunch of handles to help with dragging it around.

Like all soft bags, it's a compromise – it's better than a cardboard box in being more waterproof, easier to move about and needing less pipe lagging and packing tape, but not as protective as a full bike-enveloping plastic clamshell case, although it's lighter and easier to store.

Bag assembly

All bike bags require a bit of a knack to packing that gets easier each time you use them, and the Pro Bike Travel Case is no different – although the process is increased considerably by having to build the bag up from its initial packed state, and the supplied instructions are pretty basic and require a bit of thought and intuition to decipher.

The bag is given its shape and a level of rigidity by a series of rods that need to be inserted around the three upper edges of the bag on both sides. There are two long rods to fit along the top of the bag and four up the sides. They're a struggle to insert into their respective nylon webbing pockets at the ends, so while it needs to be that way to give the bag some of its structural integrity, you don't want to be doing this assembly every time you use the bag. You have to flex the upright poles a worrying amount to get them to fit into their end pockets and it's all very fingers-and-thumbs in the dark, hidden corners of the non-zipped side.

The positive to this system is that when all the rods are removed from the bag it squishes down to a fraction of its size, making it easier to transport, store or hide under a bed. Being the owner of a solid bike case that won't fit in the loft hole and takes up a lot of the spare room, this is a definite advantage for the majority of weeks of the year when the bike isn't going away.

But if you needed to squish the bag down for storage during your holiday, taking these out and then replacing them for travelling home again would be a tedious chore.

There are also four shorter thicker rods that fit in the side panels to protect the bike from side blows, a bit.

Packing a bike

Construction over, it's time to put the bike in. With its wheels off, the bike fits onto an alloy cradle that straps in the bottom of the bag, making it easily removable to facilitate this part of the process.

As long as its wheelbase is less than 124cm your bike will fit, and the bike carrier supports are adjustable along the cradle arms to fit whatever distance there is between your bike's dropouts. They're held in place with four hex key-tightened collars.

It's pretty fiddly to set up initially but when it's done, it's done, unless you plan to use the bag for a variety of bikes. Your bike is held into the internal frame with its own quick release/bolt-through skewers; there are blue adaptors on the arms to swap around to suit whatever size dropout width and configuration your bike has. The right rear one also has a chain guide built in to keep that tidy. There are additional wide Velcro straps on both arms to wrap up and over the skewers for extra stability and security.

Next up, it's seatpost and bar and stem removal time. The Pro case comes with a frame pad that wraps around the front of the bike's frame triangle, with Velcro straps to hold seatpost/saddle and stem/bar safely out of the way. If your seatpost is heavily greased it might make everything a bit grubby, so a plastic bag might come in handy here. I found that the cable routing of one of my bikes didn't like the bar being stored to the left, as the supplied frame pad would like, so I had to reverse everything to get things to play nicely. There's usually a bit of adapting and adjusting to fit everything in any bike bag, and this appears to be this one's area of fudge.

Note: if you have a small bike or not much seatpost showing then it's possible you could fit the bike in the bag with the saddle and seatpost still in. This does mean it becomes more of a structural part of the bike bag and subject to any external forces that might make themselves known, which you might not fancy.

You then shuffle the hitched bike frame and carrier combo back in the Travel Case and secure it to the base with the straps.

Now the frame can be secured to the side of the bag with straps at the head tube and seat tube cluster areas. These are attached to large foam blocks to keep the bike away from the side of the bag and provide some squash and thump protection.

Pop the drivetrain cover on to stop any other stuff you might put in the bag from getting oily smeared.

Wheel pockets

The wheels slot into cavernous pockets each side of the bag and are held taut with a pair of Velcro straps. They're offset front and back to help with tidy packing, and there are large reinforcing plastic discs on the outside to lessen axle rub and rotor damage.

Extra protection

For further protection, four foam blocks are supplied to stick to the bag via Velcro strips running either side towards the bottom, so you can mount them where your bike might be most sensitive to baggage strikes and clumsy loading.

The base and the bottom 30cm of the inside of the bag is lined with a silver foil type material that will help towards waterproofing, and more importantly it makes it easier to see where you've dropped that 3mm bolt when you're assembling the bike in a dim hotel basement.

The Pro Bike Travel Case also comes with a big drawstring bag to put your helmet or shoes in, and there's a large zipped mesh pocket to store pedals, energy bars and whatnot inside the rear end of the bag, and another open mesh pocket for knick knacks on the side towards the base.

I fitted a 56cm road bike in the bag and there was plenty of room to spare, you could easily fit a mountain bike in if you wanted, although rangier full-suspension bikes and modern geometry long-low-slack bikes might struggle.

I've spent some time in the past packing and unpacking various bikes into a large variety of bike bags and boxes, and once the initial setup is done the Pro Bike Travel Case is one of the good ones. Mounting the bike onto the cradle and then putting it in the bag is genuinely useful, especially at the other end when you might be putting the bike back together in a hotel room, where this frame can serve as an impromptu bike stand – so you can build most of the bike back up without making a mess of the carpet.

On the move

The base of the bag has four solid bars bolted to it for rigidity and to protect the bottom from rubs and scuffs, and moving the bag around is made easier by the four wheels.

The rear two are integrated into the bag and slightly recessed into a large corner boot of plastic, while the front pair are removable.

The front ones are castor wheels, which help with steering, and they can be clicked off with a push-button to stop them getting damaged in transit – a neat feature, on paper. A small external zipped pocket to put them in would be handy so you don't have to reopen the bag to hide them in before they disappear into the hold, especially if you've made use of the zips' ability to have a small padlock or zip-tie slotted through them, but that's a minor whinge.

There's a webbing grab handle on each side of the bag and one on the top for general heaving about, plus two handles on the front edge, both thickly padded with rubber, one on the top corner and one at the base, so you can comfortably pull the bag along on all four wheels or lift the front and roll along on the back ones.

It doesn't like strong winds either.

Lots of pros, but...

So there's a lot to like about the Pro Bike Travel Case. It's lighter than a plastic clamshell case and folds down small when not needed. The twin-railed metal frame in the base gives a secure footing for the bike and out of the bag makes it very easy to disassemble/assemble for packing/unpacking. The wheel pockets are huge and will fit a mountain bike wheel, and the internal pockets are handy too. It's a pleasingly compact and manoeuvrable bag, although dragging it around can be a frustrating affair at times. Unfortunately the Pro Bike Travel Case has a problem, and it's a big one.

It doesn't handle the chuck, thump and crush of airline travel at all well. It's impossible to predict how kindly a bag will be treated once it goes through the plastic flaps of no return, and we've all heard horror stories while probably never having an issue ourselves. But even taking the abuse lottery into account, the Pro Bike Travel Case really isn't up to the task.

On its first outing the pop rivets holding the plastic foot that house the rear wheels gave way, I suspect because of the main body having a certain amount of flex to it in relation to the base, allowing too much movement for the rivets to cope with. This was quickly fixed with some nuts and bolts, but it wasn't a good or reassuring start.

As if to prove it, on the case's next travels, one of the upright struts forced its way through its nylon end pocket, which compromised the bag's rigidity, protection and integrity. And there was some serious scuffing to the zip on a top corner.

On its third trip away, that loose pole punched its way through the bottom corner of the bag, possibly thanks to a blow from above, and a pole that runs along the top of the bag went through its webbing pocket too. The metal studs that stand proud of the inserts that the removable front wheels click into were showing damage too, likely from being dragged across the floor by a ground crew employee who isn't paid enough to care. This became worse over successive trips, so that enough of these studs has been worn away that the wheels don't clip in any more, so they're useless now. It's also maybe how one of these removable wheels got lost in transit somewhere. Oh, and a bit of the zip has come away from the body of the bag on a corner.

Overall, the Bike Travel Case really looks like it's been through the wars. Despite all of this, though, and with an increasing degree of trepidation each time I've used it, the bike inside has emerged completely unscathed. But it's an unacceptable and worrying amount of damage for a bag to sustain in so few trips that it doesn't inspire much faith for future travels. For the Pro Bike Travel Case's sake it's probably a good job that we're being encouraged to minimise air travel to help save the planet.

On paper, the Pro case isn't badly priced for what it is, but its performance lets it down. More protective, more robust bike bags and boxes can be had for less.

If you don't need the packability of a soft case, the Bike Box Alan Premium Bike Box is arguably the benchmark bike bag for safe travelling. Go anywhere near an oversize baggage belt and you'll see one. It's a plastic shell that requires more bike breakdown than the Pro, but it's cheaper (£440, and currently on sale for £374), and a sturdy box that should set your mind at rest however often you travel.

The Merlin Cycles Elite Travel Bike Bag looks similar but has a cheaper rrp of £429, up from £380 when Nick reviewed it in 2020 (and because it's Merlin it's probably on sale right now – oh yes, it is, £289). It doesn't have the bike cradle or bag-reinforcing struts and only has one set of wheels, but it packs away small too and in the course of testing appeared to hold up well.

The Evoc Bike Travel Bag always seemed to a popular and sturdy soft bag when I was hoicking bikes out the backs of vans, and comes with an optional frame to support the bike like the Pro case, but is still cheaper at £424.99. The members of the road.cc staff who helped with the testing recommended it, with one even considering buying it for themselves.

The Bikebox Online VeloVault2 is more expensive than the Pro, at £545. It's another hard case that's quite roomy, although that translates into it being quite a big box. Mat was impressed, though, saying it was strong, well made and very easy to pack. (And just as he said in his review in 2018, if you don't want to stump up the cash to buy one, they're also available to hire.)

'Soft' travel bags are always going to have their issues and be more susceptible to grazes and injuries than hard cases when dealing with being handled poorly and loaded into luggage compartments with the likelihood of piles of other heavy things chucked on top of them, but it's the compromise that many are happy to make for a bag that's light to move around and easier to store when not in use.

Over my years of travel with bikes I've stood nervously at the baggage carousel waiting to see what might have happened to countless bikes in bags and boxes, and I've never seen a bag suffer such a succession of damage in such a short time. Normally you'd have to wait a few years and get a-few-times-round-the-world amount of air miles under your belt to come to a satisfactory conclusion about the protection and longevity capabilities of a bike bag, but there's no need here.

For this sort of money you're going to expect a bag that will look after your bike for many years of travel, and while there's always an element of luck in such matters, a large amount of the Pro Bike Travel Case's misfortune seems to be poor design and construction choices.

A soft bike bag with some great features that would be even greater if it could stay in one piece

road.cc test report

Make and model: Pro Bike Travel Case

Size tested: n/a

Tell us what the product is for and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

Pro says: "The PRO Bike Travel Case features a reinforced frame to provide a sturdy, protective, travel case for your bike. Designed to provide you with a better sports' bicycle experience the PRO Bike Travel Case was developed to fit all bikes; including 29'er mountain bikes, gravel bikes and road bikes. It features a reinforced inner frame and improved protection, when compared to the previous version of PRO's Bike Travel Case. Inside the Bike Travel Case there are 2 wheel compartments, which have been placed to further ensure the strength of the frame. It rolls on 2, rear, caster wheels and 2, front, fixed wheels to efficiently carry its 9-kilograme weight."

On paper it should be a good bike bag because there's lots to like in the details; in real life, however, it's worryingly poor. Sturdy it is not.

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

Improved function and durability for the ultimate travel bag

Renewed frame design combining super durable materials with a stress-free set up

Glass fibre rod construction for extra strength

Upgraded wheel compartment placement ensuring additional security

Fixed roller wheels on the back for easy manoeuvrability

It looks well made and there's been some intelligent thought put into the features, but it seems like it just wants to fall apart.

On the one hand it's a good bag if you want something that can pack away smallish, has a great bike cradle and some genuinely useful design features; on the other, its ability to self destruct puts doubts in your head about its ability to look after a bike.

It broke on its very first outing.

As a soft bag it's going to be quite lighter than a full plastic box – handy with airlines' random baggage weight restrictions.

More protective, more robust bike bags and boxes can be had for less, plus its performance lets it down.

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

Technically it did its job in being able to protect a bike from the adventures of air travel, but the fact that it started to fall apart on its first outing casts doubt on it being able to do that for much longer.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

Light, packed down for storage, bike cradle.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

It's just not up to the job.

How does the price compare to that of similar products in the market, including ones recently tested on road.cc?

If you don't need the packability of a soft case, the Bike Box Alan Premium Bike Box is arguably the benchmark bike bag for safe travelling. It's a plastic shell that requires more bike breakdown than the Pro, but it's cheaper at £440, and currently on sale for £374.

The Merlin Cycles Elite Travel Bike Bag looks similar but has a cheaper rrp of £429, up from £380 when Nick reviewed it in 2020, and is currently on sale for £289.

The Evoc Bike Travel Bag comes with an optional frame to support the bike like the Pro case, but is still cheaper at £424.99.

The Bikebox Online VeloVault2 is around the same price as the Pro, at £545. It's another hard case that's quite roomy, although that translates into it being quite a big box. (If you don't want to stump up the cash to buy one, they're also available to hire.)

Did you enjoy using the product? It was nice in that it was simple to pack, manageable to walk around with, light and squished down small for storage, but its ability to self-destruct under the bumps and scrapes of travel was very, very disappointing.

Would you consider buying the product? No

Would you recommend the product to a friend? No

Use this box to explain your overall score

There's lots to like about the bag, but its willingness to self-destruct under transit trauma makes it unfit for purpose. You can get more robust, more protective bags for less.

Overall rating: 3 /10

About the tester

Age: 50   Height: 180cm   Weight: 73kg

I usually ride: It varies as to the season.   My best bike is: The one I\'m on at the time

I've been riding for: Over 20 years   I ride: Most days   I would class myself as: Experienced

I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, cyclo cross, general fitness riding, fixed/singlespeed, mtb, Fun

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Jo Burt has spent the majority of his life riding bikes, drawing bikes and writing about bikes. When he's not scribbling pictures for the whole gamut of cycling media he writes words about them for road.cc and when he's not doing either of those he's pedaling. Then in whatever spare minutes there are in between he's agonizing over getting his socks, cycling cap and bar-tape to coordinate just so. And is quietly disappointed that yours don't He rides and races road bikes a bit, cyclo-cross bikes a lot and mountainbikes a fair bit too. Would rather be up a mountain.

Add new comment

I've been away on 4 trips to Europe l, and a friend with the same case,with this case and the bikes have always survived fine. I think it offers great protection for the bike. Wheeling it isn't great. I haven't had the same damage from baggage handlers as Jo. It has a few scuffs and marks but nothing that a suitcase wouldnt pick up as well. I think 1.5 stars is a bit harsh and makes it seem like a seriously unviable option, which it definitely isn't., I'd give it 3 stars at least,

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If your bike is going to be handled by other people, outside of your sight, then:

Hard case > Cardboard box > Soft Case > Nothing

But they have their benefits for other uses.

I prefer big fish -> little fish -> cardboard box myself. 

If you have an expensive bike (particularly if its carbon) and travel with anything other than a hard case box, you really are asking for trouble IMO.  You might get lucky indefinitely, but if you travel a lot then I'd say there's a high chance it'll end in tears.  Maybe I was particularly unlucky, but on my second flight using a Scicon soft bag, it got crushed / dropped / manhandled so badly that the steel QR holding the rear wheel to the internal frame was bent and the mech hanger of my Trek Madone ripped off.

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Cycling travel tips, resources and product reviews

How to choose a bike bag

The best bike bag.

Choosing a bike bag is not necessarily a case of asking how to choose a bike bag , but how do I choose the best bike bag for me? .

You might want the absolutely best bicycle travel bag, but the fact is, there probably isn't one objective “best bike travel bag”.

In this article, you'll find out the important characteristics of a bike bag, then be able to choose the best bike bag for you.

What to look for in a bike travel bag

You'll be pleased to know that there is no perfect bike bag (though if I had $200k to spend on making some, that problem would get solved).

Everyone looks for different things in a product, and bike bags are no exception.

Before choosing a bike bag, you need to consider what is most important to you.

We'll get to bike bag characteristics in a minute, but first a short digression. Stick with me, this will make sense.

Should I take my bike overseas?

I often get emails from people asking “Should I take my bike on my cycling trip” (usually to France).

My answer is usually a qualified “ it depends ” and here's why.

Close your eyes and imagine a few different scenarios that will occur when you're on your trip…

Bikes at the airport

On the day of your departure, you lug your bike bag and the rest of your luggage (backpack for the plane, another roller bag) to the airport and are faced with long queues.

You spend time wrangling your bike bag through the queues.

What would you rather?

• A bike bag that is light and agile, or
• A bike bag that's a bit more cumbersome, but more robust, or
• No bike and thus no bike bag

Obviously, which bike bag you choose will depend upon how much hassle you're prepared to put up with.

If you're likely to get annoyed by moving a big bike bag and the rest of your luggage around, get something more agile (like the Scicon Aero Comfort 2 TSA review for example).

On arrival: trains, buses, transit and taxis

When you arrive, you'll likely be: 1. Jumping on a train to somewhere, or 2. Jumping on a bus to somewhere, or 3. Getting a hire car, or 4. Getting a taxi (probably to a hotel or campervan depot)

If #1 or #2 is you, you'll either want no bike bag, or something light and agile like the Scicon Aero Comfort 2 TSA.

If you're getting a hire car, then you'll want something reasonably compact that fits in your car – though hopefully you planned for a hire car big enough to accommodate your bike bag.

If you're getting a taxi – especially if you're with a travel partner – and have a bike bag and 2 luggage bags, you'll want something that's compact. Not all airports have nice big minivans (think Toyota Hiace) or station wagons (Commodore), and all your luggage will quickly overwhelm the space. (In 2009 in Frankfurt we had to wait 45 mins for a taxi big enough for 2 bike bags and 2 luggage bags.)

Campervans, hire cars, hotels and long term accommodation

If you're hiring a campervan, or a car and staying in hotels or long term accommodation, you'll want something that you can fold up and keep out of the way once your bike is unpacked (Scicon Aero Comfort Plus, EVOC Bike Travel Bag or Chain Reaction Cycles bike bag ).

If you're staying in one place for a period of time, you don't need something so compact, but you'll still need to fit it into the hire car.

Why these examples are relevant

You'll note that these examples pretty much cover most situations in a trip where you'll be using your bike bag, or need to accommodate it.

They're important to highlight because little inconveniences and annoyances on a trip can add up.

So then, how to choose a bike bag

Characteristics of a bike bag.

When choosing a bike bag, generally speaking you'd consider these characteristics (in no order of preference or importance). If some of these don't make sense, check out my EVOC Bike Travel Bag review which describes them in detail.

The VeloNomad bike bag reviews are thorough, so you can be pretty much assured you are not going to miss any details.

• Agility/portability
• Convenience
• Compactability
• Weight/Size
• Robustness/Build Quality
• Protection for bike
• Adjustability
• Securing the bike
• Overall design considerations
• Where to Buy

Decide what's important to you

Out of all the characteristics above, decide what is important to you.

You can then download the bike bag ratings comparison spreadsheet which compares and rates all the bike bags on the VeloNomad bike travel bag reviews page with weightings for each metric.

Decide which things are important to you, then weight them higher. Things you consider less important (for example, price), you can weight lower.

This should in theory give you an objective outcome that delivers the best bike bag according to your needs.

Which bike bag I'd choose

If you asked me to pick a bag, here's what you'd get as an answer:

• If money was no object, and you wanted a light, agile, compact bag, get a BikeND Helium. Remember, I have not reviewed one yet (dear BikeND – please send one for review).
• If money was kind of a consideration and you wanted something agile, light and compact – get the Scicon Aero Comfort Plus . Bear in mind they do not have the longevity of an EVOC or CRC.
• If you want the ultimate in protection for your bag, get the EVOC Bike Travel Bag or Chain Reaction Cycles bike bag (which has the added bonus of being cheap AND awesome). You'll compromise on agility (they both don't have castor wheels on the front) and to a lesser degree on weight, but will have a robust, protective bag.

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Chain Reaction Cycles Pro Bike Travel Bag

• Cycling Deals
• Accessories

• Product Details
• Spec ification
• P&P costs

Chain Reaction Cycles Pro Bike Bag

• Blue, Black, 1400mm, 280mm, 790mm
• Designed for MTB / Road riding.
• Made from Alloy.
• Weighs 8.8kg

The Chain Reaction Cycles Pro Bike Bag has been custom designed in-house to offer you the best value bike transport bag possible with features that are better than even the market leading equivalent. Quick, Safe and Secure Transport Whether travelling via car, plane or train the CRC Pro bike bag will make travelling with a bike as quick and easy as it can be. This durable Pro Bike Bag can be wheeled easily to keep make transporting your bike as painless as possible. This versatile design will accommodate any bike you can think of within minutes with minimal tools required. Only the wheels, pedals and handlebars need to be removed before you are safe to transport your bike. The key to our design lies with the Crush Protection Inserts and the Shock Block Securing System, which combine to create an adaptable duo which is easy to use and protects your bike from unwanted knocks and shocks. Protective Inserts Crush Protection Inserts - The bike is connected to the Shock Block Securing System via any two of the Crush Protection Inserts, which, once fitted in place of your hubs will prevent your frame and forks from being crushed together during transport. The Crush Protection Inserts are constructed from solid alloy for durability and a total of eight different Crush Protection Inserts are included to ensure that all bicycles are compatible with our design: Front Hub Inserts:QR 15mm Bolt Through 20mm Bolt Through Rear Hub Inserts:130mm QR 135mm QR 12x135mm Bolt Through 12x142mm Bolt Through 12x150mm Bolt Through When not in use these can be easily stored in a secure pocket inside the bag or left at home to keep weight to a minimum. Shock Block Securing System Shock Block Securing System - Our versatile system protects and secures your bike inside the bag via three separate blocks which are located as follows:Under the fork - Protects the controls on the bottom of your forks and offers a secure location to fix the front Crush Protection Insert. Under the bottom bracket - Prevents your chainrings from striking the bottom of the bag during a large impact. Under the rear axle - Protects the controls on the bottom of your forks and offers a secure location to fix the rear Crush Protection Insert. Material: PU coated inner with padded rip stop exterior Compatible with: Downhill/Freeride/All-Mountain/Cross-Country/Dirt Jump/Road/Tri/TT/touring/commuter bikes. Fits up to 29" wheels via 2 segregated large zippered pockets for the front and rear wheels, with reinforced hard plastic that prevents the axles from damaging the bag and from being damaged. Adaptable Crush Protection Inserts. Variable Shock Block Securing System. Reinforced fork lower padding/protection. 12x variable fixation straps to secure the bike inside the bag. Handy pockets and compartments help to keep your components organised. Heavy-duty lockable zipper. Wide spaced soft gripping dual skate wheels on the base of the bag provide stability and make transportation easy. 6 x separate robust and ergonomic carry handles. 1 on each end and 2 on each side. ID Pocket. Collapsible for easy storage down to 140cm x 28cm x 30cm. Weight: 8.8kgs (Inc. all CPI's, which can be removed), 8.6kgs without. Unfolded L - 1400mm W - 280mm H - 790mm Folded L - 1400mm W - 280mm H - 300mm. .. more details .

This CRC deal was found at Chain Reaction Cycles , costs £249.99 and was last updated on 1st December 2023 .

How much will Postage & Packaging be?!

Yay! This qualifies for FREE UK Postage as it's over £20. Alternatively 1st Class Delivery is £3.99 or UK Next Day Delivery is £4.99 .

Please note this is an estimate, and is based upon Chain Reaction Cycles's UK delivery charges .

Please note this P&P is an estimate , and is based on the following Chain Reaction Cycles UK delivery charges:

Standard Delivery (Hermes or Yodel - within 4 working days) FREE for items over £20 and £2.99 for items under £20 . Priority 1st Class Delivery (within 2 working days) £3.99 . UK Next Day* £4.99 . UK Next Morning* £9.99 . UK Bulk Orders (Bikes, Turbo Trainers etc) FREE - Built and despatched in 10 - 12 working days. There may be an extra charge for Highlands and Islands. *Some more isolated areas in the UK may not be eligible for Next Day Delivery. Full details on Chain Reaction Cycles' P&P charges can be found here .

Please note - I regularly update these charges, but shipping policies do change - Please ensure they are correct before completing a purchase.

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About Cycling Bargains!

Welcome to Bike Bargains - I scour the internet trying to find the best deals specifically for UK based cyclists. Over the years I've saved hundreds of pounds on cycling gear, simply by shopping around and buying cycling consumables only when they're on sale. Whether you're a road cyclist or a DH mountain biker, I handpick the best money saving cycling related bargains I can find - and will hopefully save you money too! All details are believed to be correct, but please check with the retailer prior to buying - deals and specifications change, and your contract is solely with the retailer. You can get in touch with me or see my Privacy Policy .

• This topic has 16 replies, 12 voices, and was last updated 5 years ago by Hob-Nob .
• Bike bags EVOC vs CRC

I did search, so sorry if been done 10 times already.

I borrowed an evoc bike bag once , it was great. Is it loads better than a CRC one that is on sale?

Depends which CRC one is on sale. I’ve got one of the standard CRC ones and it’s pretty pants. The wheels are too small and too close together, so it falls over – a lot. The Evoc one is worth every penny.

Evoc one is heavily discounted at Silverfish right now

https://www.silverfish-uk.com/manufacturer/Evoc/ACCEssORiES/luggage/VAREVOC100405307_Evoc-Bike-Travel-Bag-Olive-Xl

I’ve just bought one for an upcoming trip.

I’ve had the basic CRC bag in the past. The evoc is light years ahead of it

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We’ve a couple of this CRC bag – https://www.chainreactioncycles.com/chain-reaction-cycles-pro-bike-bag/rp-prod114204 Can fit our fat bikes in them so plenty of room. Don’t know about the Evoc bags.

We’ll only fly occasionally so for us the extra cost of the Evocs wasn’t worth it.

it’s the ‘pro’ one on sale

https://www.chainreactioncycles.com/mobile/se/en/chain-reaction-cycles-pro-bike-bag/rp-prod114204

I’ve got the evoc and my mate has the crc copy of the evoc and to be fair the crc one is really good.

The handle position on the crc one isn’t the best and I find it more awkward but the worst thing seems to be if it’s not loaded 100% perfectly it seems to like to fall over, the track on the evoc is a few inches wider on the wheels.

Both really good bags, I’d have bought the crc one had not picked my evoc up at 40% off.

Have x2 of the CRC bags for the last 5 years and although they are not a patch on the Evoc bag they are miles cheaper, well padded, sturdy and OK if you are not going to be travelling a lot. We’ve never had any issues with damage. We do two trips a year and they are fine for that. However, they do have a tendency to sag and fall over if not packed really well. This pissed me off so much I built a frame in the end of the bag from plastic water pipes and velco’d it in which completely solved the problem. They are starting to wear now amd we are likely to travel a bit more from next year and will def eventually replace with Evoc

Our crc ones have done 7 return flights and are still going strong. Sportspursuot has the evoc ones cheap at the moment

Evoc one is even more heavily discounted here

https://www.sportpursuit.com/catalog/product/view/id/1635032 ?

this is the xl one for fat bikes though (so it adds a few kgs to the weight)

The price on Silverfish is great, less than the discount I got mine at which made it a a bargain, I’d think about one as a spare/replacement if the current one doesn’t feel like it’s got another 5 years left in it!

This pissed me off so much I built a frame in the end of the bag from plastic water pipes

This is basically what the EVOC bag has in it already. Makes it a really sturdy bag, as the pipes protect the bike a little and stop the bag form collapsing.

So if I am only doing 1 or 2 trips a year, get the CRC one? Won’t need to lug the bag around much on public transport so I don’t think it’ll be too much bother that it falls over / slumps.

Depends on the price difference, airport with car hire a long way from the terminal etc. and big terminals and the evoc is really nice to have. It will lst a long time so it’s really a long term investment.

Thing is though I found the EVOC bag cumbersome. The walk from Nice airport to to the train station for finale was a PITA. I found the bag tipped over quite alot when walking, liked it pivoted on the wheels and toppled.

So i guess what I mean is if the CRC one does this, it doesnt really matter…. perhaps…?

That xl EVOC is heavy.   May be overkill as i managed fine wih a LLS 29er in the normal EVOC i borrowed

I’ve got the polaris bag – having travelled with mates with evoc bags I’d say its on a par

https://www.polaris-bikewear.co.uk/Axial-Pod-Bike-Case-p/pol01-5781-p.htm

The CRC bag is the best you will get for the money. Yes is dose fall over because the wheel track is to narrow and its prone to collapse. But in all other regards its bang on, especially  for £150.

Agreed. I go against the grain here always and will say the EVOC bag for how much it costs, should be great, but it’s not. The main thing going for it, is it’s quick to pack if you have an average sized bike.

If you have anything big, it becomes a total PITA. If it’s a 29er with 2.5 tyres, get ready for the fight of your life.

The logistics of moving it around make me angry even thinking about, which is saying something as a calm person. I’d rather chuck a box on a trolley.

The topic ‘Bike bags EVOC vs CRC’ is closed to new replies.

The 5 best bike travel cases for triathlon

• Written by Olivia Miller

• April 1, 2024

bike travel case is an essential piece of equipment that protects your bike during transport, ensuring it arrives at your destination in the same condition it left. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve deeper into the world of bike travel cases, exploring their importance, the factors to consider when buying, how to pack your bike, and much more.

The best bike travel cases

Evoc bike travel bag xl, thule round trip transition bike case, dakine bike roller bag, orucase b2 bike travel case, b&w international bike sack – bike sack (96250/n).

I recently purchased the EVOC Bike Travel Bag XL, and I must say, it’s been a game-changer for my cycling travels. The first thing that struck me was the hybrid construction. It combines the advantages of a hard-shell case with the ease of use of a soft bag. This design is ingenious because it offers maximum protection with minimal weight, which is crucial when you’re traveling by airplane.

The bag fits my Plus Bike perfectly, but I’ve also tested it with my Cross Country and Road bikes , and they all fit just as well. This versatility is a big plus for me as I switch between different bikes depending on my destination. The bag also comes with a bike stand, clip-on wheel 2.0, and frame pad, which are all handy features that add to the overall protection and convenience.

• Buy at Amazon.com for $589.99

This case is incredibly sturdy and well-constructed, giving me peace of mind that my bike is safe during transit. The wheels on the case make it easy to maneuver, and the pull handle is a nice touch. It’s also surprisingly lightweight for its size, which is a huge plus when I’m on the go. The internal mounting system is a standout feature, it holds my bike securely and makes packing and unpacking a breeze.

• Buy at Amazon.com for $999.95

First and foremost, the Dakine Bike Roller Bag is a reliable and sturdy companion for any bike enthusiast. The bag’s design is evidently tailored for mountain bikes, but it has also proven to be effective for triathlon bikes. The 360-degree padded coverage is a standout feature, providing maximum protection with minimal weight. The bag’s construction, made of 600D water-resistant polyester, is robust and durable, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of travel and protect your precious cargo.

The bag’s size is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s large enough to pack extra stuff, saving money on baggage during flights. On the other hand, it can be heavy to drag through airports, especially with only two wheels. However, the bag’s rollers are smooth and make it easier to navigate through crowded spaces. The multiple grab handles also facilitate smooth transitions .

• Buy at Amazon.com for $649.00

The first thing that struck me about this case was its compact size. Despite being able to accommodate my 29 Stumpy MTB, it’s almost the size of a regular 31″ luggage, making it incredibly easy to transport. The lightweight design is a bonus, allowing me to move around without feeling weighed down.

The case is made from 1680 Denier Ballistic Nylon fabric, which is both durable and weatherproof. This gives me peace of mind knowing my bike is well-protected from the elements. The case also features a compression-molded base with aluminum rails, adding rigidity and ensuring my bike stays secure during transit. The internal pockets are a nice touch, providing ample storage for gear and small parts.

However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. While the case is generally easy to use, packing the bike does require an extra step compared to traditional bike cases. This isn’t a deal-breaker for me, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a quick and easy packing process. Additionally, the case is on the pricier side, which might be a deterrent for some.

Despite these minor drawbacks, I’m thoroughly impressed with the ORUCASE B2 Bike Travel Case. It’s well-designed, practical, and most importantly, it keeps my bike safe and secure during my travels. I couldn’t ask for more.

• Buy at Amazon.com for $484.95

The B&W bag is quite large, easily accommodating my bike without having to remove the pedals or handlebars. All I had to do was remove the wheels and the bike fit perfectly . The material feels robust and durable, and I believe it will last for many trips.

However, it’s important to note that this is a soft bag, not a hard case. It’s perfect for storage or simple travel, like by car or train, but I wouldn’t recommend it for commercial airline travel unless you add some additional padding or a box for extra protection. The bag is also quite heavy and can be awkward to carry around, especially when it’s fully packed. I wish it had wheels for easier transportation.

On the positive side, the bag has wheel pockets on both sides and plenty of room for other items like helmet , tools, and even shoes. It’s a simple, no-frills bag that does its job well. However, I do think it could benefit from a few improvements like a firmer bottom, an additional small pocket on the inside, and an ID/claim holder on the outside.

In conclusion, the B&W International Bike Sack is a cost-effective solution for transporting your bike. It’s not perfect, but with a few tweaks and careful packing, it can serve you well.”

• Buy at Amazon.com for $73.99

The Importance of a Good Bike Travel Case

Firstly, let’s discuss why a bike travel case is so important. If you’re a frequent traveler, a bike travel case is not just a luxury, but a necessity. It serves as a protective shell for your bike, shielding it from potential damage during transit. This is particularly crucial when flying, as luggage can often be mishandled or tossed around.

Moreover, a good bike travel case can also provide ample storage for other cycling gear. This means you can keep all your cycling essentials in one place, making your journey more organized and hassle-free. Therefore, investing in the best bike travel case is a wise decision for any serious cyclist.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Bike Travel Case

When it comes to purchasing the best bike travel case, there are several factors you need to consider.

• Size and Weight: The size and weight of the case are vital as they directly impact its portability and the ease of handling. You want a case that can comfortably fit your bike but is also lightweight enough to carry around without much difficulty.
• Material and Durability: The case’s material and construction determine its durability and ability to withstand rough handling. Hard cases made from materials like ABS plastic offer the most protection but can be heavier and more expensive. On the other hand, soft cases or bags made from tough fabrics like nylon or polyester can be lighter and more affordable, but they may not offer the same level of protection.
• Design and Features: Look for a case with a user-friendly design and practical features. This could include things like multiple handles for easy carrying, wheels for smooth mobility, internal straps for securing the bike, and extra compartments for storing accessories.
• Price: Lastly, consider your budget. The best bike travel case for you is one that meets your needs and fits within your budget. Remember, a higher price doesn’t always guarantee better quality.

How to Pack Your Bike in a Travel Case

Packing your bike in a travel case may seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can be a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Disassemble Your Bike: Start by removing the wheels, pedals, and sometimes the handlebars, depending on the size of your case. Some cases may also require you to remove the seat post and the derailleur.
• Protect Your Bike: Wrap each part of your bike with foam padding or bubble wrap, focusing on the areas that are most prone to damage like the frame, derailleur, and brake levers.
• Pack Your Bike: Place the frame in the case first, then add the wheels and other parts. Make sure everything fits snugly and securely. Use internal straps if available to secure the bike and prevent movement during transit.
• Pack Your Accessories: If there’s room, you can also pack your helmet, shoes, and other accessories in the case. Just make sure they’re well-protected and won’t damage the bike.

In conclusion, finding the best bike travel case involves careful consideration of several factors, including size, weight, material, design, and price. With the right case, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing your bike is well-protected.

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[The Janus Duffel] is great, high quality materials. Zippers are phenomenal. This is not just for cycling, it’s my everyday bag. 10 out of 10.

Having travelled to the Alps this year and spent ages at both ends meticulously applying pipe insulation to every part of my frame and then zip tying it all securely I realised I needed a better option. And this is it. Brilliant bit of kit.

Wow, I am beyond impressed with this bike travel bag, it is so simple to set up, and the sturdiness keeps me at ease, the bike is well-protected. I purchased the frame protection for an extra layer of protection.Great job Orucase.

When I pulled this bag out of the envelope I thought I had made a mistake with the size but there is plenty of room and it keeps it small and away from my legs rubbing on it like my previous saddle bag. Plus it holds a tube, levers, and co2 cartridges.

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Protect your bike and make long distance travel a breeze with PRO’s travel bags.

PRO’s travel bags protect your bike and components during transit. The range includes wheel and double wheel bags as well as the Bike Bag and Bike Travel Case Mega.

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Brompton Bike Travel Bag

Brompton Bike Travel Bag is the most lightweight travel bag available. Take your bike literally anywhere while keeping it protected and most importantly easily transportable. The bag works as a backpack and a travel bag, allowing you the versatility to use it as you see fit. Even if you're in the city, wearing this as a backpack is incredibly useful as when you reach a station you can simply fold your bike, put it in your bag and take it as out as you please. 

Crafted from immaculate 600D Oxford fabric, you're given an extremely durable bag that will last you for years to come. Fully water-resistant, no matter the weather you're able to utilize this bag to it's full potential in any scenario. The fabric is exceptionally easy to clean and naturally prevents stains and dirt from hindering the it. 

With side containers crafted from quality mesh, you can store a variety of other items like a bike pump, water bottles and other essentials which really adds to the usability of this amazing product. The final secret this treat of a bag offers is an inner pocket for further storage, so there's no reason why all of your important Brompton equipment cannot travel with you. 

• Lightweight and efficient. Operates as a backpack and travel bag depending on what you require
• Includes two exterior mesh pockets and one interior pocket for any extras you may have
• Comes in at 67.5cm by 84.5cm by 34.3cm, offering you a very sizable bag
• Fully water-resistant and exceptionally durable - Perfect for all trips

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