Your bike will need to be a high-quality, full-suspension bike. A hardtail will be a struggle, unless you’re an expert hardtail enthusiast!
If you have any doubts about your bike’s suitability; ask us. See the Kit List for advice on spares and accessories to bring with you. Have your bike serviced before your trip; you’ll be riding it hard for several days.
We have a fully-equipped bike workshop.
Packing Your Bike To Fly
Using a box.
1. Use a special rigid bike box or get a cardboard bike box from your local bike shop. Then follow these steps or ask your bike shop to pack the bike for you.
2. Remove the front wheel and pedals. Place a small piece of card between the brake pads to keep them apart.
3. Lower the seat post to its minimum height or remove it if necessary.
4. Detach the handlebars (not stem) and tape/ziptie them to the top tube.
5. Turn the front forks rearwards.
6. Move the rear derailleur so that the chain is on the largest chainring at the back, and the front derailleur (if you have one) so that the chain is on the smallest chainring at the front (this is to protect the derailleur/s).
7. Wrap the front chainring/s and rear chainrings in bubble wrap.
8. Partially deflate the tyres.
9. Place the bike in the box and place the front wheel alongside the frame.
10. Pack spaces in the box with clothing/camelbak/helmet etc (unless this is prohibited by the airline’s conditions).
Using a bike bag:
1. If it’s an Evoc or equivalent semi-rigid bag, follow their instructions.
2. If it isn’t, follow the instructions above for using a box, but also:
• Remove wheels and disc rotors.
• Protect all exposed areas with bubble wrap.
• It’s a good idea to line the bag with a cardboard bike box for extra rigidity.
Don’t forget to check with the airline at the time of booking what their conditions are on bike carriage. They do vary in terms of booking, cost and packing requirements.