How to transport a bicycle in an airplane?

True cyclists have no idea how to go on a trip without their own “iron horse”. And if there are no special difficulties with the car, transportation in an airplane can be puzzling. How to organize the process and deliver the vehicle safe and sound, we’ll talk in our article.

At present, transporting a vehicle such as a bicycle in an airplane does not present any difficulties. Many are used to traveling in this way and do not see this as a problem. However, it is necessary to observe some rules, since in any case this vehicle is often quite expensive, therefore, possible damage will be very unpleasant for the owner, and can also interfere with the design.

First of all, take care of the packaging. The safety of the bicycle depends on how competently it is performed. It should also be clarified whether the carrier has a permit for the transport of such vehicles. In some cases, you may need to preliminary request and permission.

It should be noted that the size and weight of the baggage directly affects the cost of baggage In addition, there are weight restrictions depending on the class, and if they are exceeded, you will have to pay extra, this also needs to be taken into account.

As for children's tricycles, there are usually no special requirements for their transportation. Their weight is quite modest, so it fits into almost any restrictions. However, in any case, you should take care of safe packaging.

Packaging also has certain requirements. Consider the main ones that will help to deliver the "iron horse" safe and sound in a bag, case or case.

In the case where a disk mechanism is present, brake rotors must be removed, as they may become deformed during transport. If we are talking about hydraulic brakes, it is necessary to make impossible their accidental compression. This can be prevented by installing a layer of plastic.

The rear derailleur is removable and securely fixed to the frame. Plastic spacers are also placed between the fork rods. The pedals are removed and turned inwards, as in the normal position they are able to damage the cover, and then another's luggage. If the steering wheel is removed, it must be deployed parallel to the frame. It is also recommended to remove the front wheel. Tires are required to descend.

However, before disassembling the "iron horse", you should think about the method of packaging. This is important, because the stronger and more reliable it turns out to be, the more chances there are to bring the structure to its destination intact. It is, first of all, about the packaging material. It can be of 3 types: a hard case, a cardboard box or a cover for transporting a bicycle. Let's consider each in more detail.

Such cases can be easily purchased in specialized stores. They are made of durable and wear-resistant material and protect the bike as much as possible from external mechanical stress during transportation. This is especially true when it comes to expensive models, the appearance of excesses and scratches on which are extremely undesirable for the owner.

However, not everyone can afford this type of packaging. The fact is that it has a rather high price, the range of which is affected by the manufacturer, workmanship and strength. In addition, such cases significant sizes, and at the same time they are tough and uncomfortable.

Many people think that a cardboard box can serve as an excellent and much cheaper replacement for a hard case. As it may be the factory packaging of the bike. If it is not preserved, any other will do. You can contact the sports store, where almost certainly they can find the right option and give it away completely free.

This way is often used by ordinary tourists. In order to put the bike in the box, you need to remove the front wheel and turn the steering wheel parallel to the frame. The design is quite comfortable placed inside, protected from external influences. Upon arrival at the destination airport or hotel, the packaging can simply be discarded.

Finally, the easiest option to pack your bike for transportation is bike cover. It enjoys well-deserved attention among tourists, as it is small in size and weighs very little. In addition, it can be used as bedding under a tent, a blanket or a rain cover.

The bicycle is placed in the boot so that the wheels are at the edges and the frame is inside. After that, everything is carefully pulled by belts. The structure will be more difficult to damage and scratch.

A number of airlines charge extra for baggage that does not match the size. Therefore, experienced travelers advise when planning a flight, book a ticket in advance, which contains a separate baggage claim. In this case, you should definitely pay attention to the conditions of transportation. In some cases it will be necessary to make a call to the airline’s office and inform them of the presence of oversized baggage. Ignoring this condition can lead to the fact that when landing, the bike simply refuse to accept.

The delivery of sports equipment at the airport is made separately from baggage. After registering and gluing special tags, the bike goes to the collection point for oversized items. It should also be taken not on a common tape, but on the employees of the oversize distribution point. The cost of transportation will vary depending on its weight, size and conditions of the airline.

You can also bring a bicycle, having previously insured it. The fact is that insurance in case of loss of baggage is not too large, so additional safety precautions will protect against depriving a significant amount of money.

Below, watch a video with tips on how to prepare your bike for transport by plane.