+1 I use pipe insulation (cut to fit) on all frame and fork sections for added protection

Thanks to everyone who has replied to this thread -- I've learned a lot! NOW for the next question -- how do I pack my bike into the case? I'm not sure what "pipe insulation" is -- I was imagining getting a lot of bubble wrap and using that to wrap the components and to insulate the frame a little bit more, but it sounds like there are definitely some key tricks to making sure the bike arrives safely.

Go to your local hardware supply store (ie, Home Despot) and ask for pipe insulation, in the plumbing area. It's basically long foam cylinders with a slit down the length so you can wrap the foam around a pipe. Cut to the length you need after purchase.

This is pipe insulation, it comes in different diameters just match it to the frame tube size and cut to fit the length, they may be powdered on the inside (this will stop it sticking to decals that are not under the clear coat etc.)



Here are a set of general instructions, what it leaves out are using the upper and lower straps to secure the bike frame within the case, these need to be tight, so when the case is vertical its not allowing the frame to drop down or move at all.

https://www.bikesportmichigan.com/fea...ng-steps.shtml

Also remember to pack the tools you need to reassemble the bike.

Personally I would'nt take a serfas bike armour, thule or trico iron case around europe, there just too unwieldly. I'd go for a soft case, which baggage handlers recognise as something fragile (get the tags), with the hardcases they just treat them around like ordinary baggage. Don't forget some form of travel insurance that covers the bike.

Depending where your going it might be easier to rent a bike when you get there.

Do a search, there have been many threads on packing. Someone posted this picture last time.


By the way what did you get?

I fly maybe 6-7 times a year with my bike. A few weeks ago I took my bike to Australia. I unpacked and all was fine until I remembered I had left my skewers on the dining table. I managed to get some the next day but what a rookie mistake!

Make a list and stick to it.

Open the travel case up before you start any disassembly. Everything removed from the bike goes immediately in the travel case, not laid anywhere else. That way nothing gets left behind

Also only use the tools that you are going to pack in the case to disassemble the bike. It may be just a touch more difficult using a multi tool to take the bike apart, as oppossed to your shop tools, but you'll know you have every tool you need to put the bike back together.

bump.