Thanks everyone for your comments
What model BF is that, and how long does it take to strip it down and pack it?
It's a Pocket Companion. Normal breakdown / assembly is under a minute, with additional breakdown
required for packing another minute or two. Packing the suitcase takes less than 5 minutes including
accessories.
I build my own folding kayaks, and these take as much as 20 - 30 minutes to assemble so assembly
of the BF seems like nothing in comparison.
Which suitcases? (Where and how much?)
Bill Blass 30" Voyager from eBags. I paid $63.00US for one and $67.00 for the second which was ordered
a few weeks later. It appears that the price is currently $80.00. Since we were buying two bags, the low price
was appealing.
As mentioned, it has a zipper closure unlike the Sampsonite 'Lite 30". However, the Sampsonite costs 2 - 3
times as much ($230.00) from Bike Friday, and $170.00 from Samsonite. I've seen the
Samsonite 'Lite GT 31" for as little as $150.00 from Suitcase.com... though this one is greater than 62".
Since I'm drilling holes in one of the cases, I'd prefer to do so to an inexpensive bag like the the Blass,
plus we'll be flying with the bikes infrequently so they should fit the bill as well as the Samsonite.
Reviews are actually pretty positive on the ABS plastic Bill Blass. ABS plastic is pretty tough and the zippers
seem durable.
I normally ride a Specialized TriCross Comp on the roads and a Specialized XC Comp on the trails,
but I must admit that the little Bike Friday is a great road bike. It's nimble, stable, and comfortable
with it's Scwalbe Kojak's at 95psi. After about 500 miles, this bike is truly a pleasant surprise.
For my wife, at 4'11" it's a perfect fit. ... Regards, Tom