It’s the height of race season, and mountain bikes and their owners are flying all over South Africa. Are you 100 percent confident you know how to get your bike from Point A to Point B on time, intact and undamaged? If not, here are MiWay’s top 10 tips for stress-free travel with your bike.
1. Check with the airline to find out what their rules and costs are for travelling with your bike. Every airline is different, so do your homework to avoid delays and make sure your bike doesn’t get left on the tarmac.
2. Buy a bike bag. Most airlines insist on this, but even if they don’t, it’s the best protection for your bike. You can get one from R800 from most bike shops – a small investment considering what you’ve already spent on your bike. Also, get some bubble wrap to provide extra protection.
3. Learn how to pack your bike bag properly. Remember that baggage handlers are paid to move luggage fast, not carefully, so it’s up to you to protect your bike as thoroughly as possible.
4. Don’t forget to pack some tools so you can assemble your bike again easily at the other end.
5. Deflate your tyres to about half the normal pressure for the flight. This helps to avoid a blow-out in the depressurised hold, or any other damage to your tyres. You will need to re-inflate your tyres on the other side, of course: Pack your mini pump, or some CO2 canisters if your airline allows them (again, check first).
6. Don’t forget to put your name and contact details on your bike bag. It’s amazing how many people forget this simple step, but it can save hours of time as well as your blood pressure if anything goes astray.
7. Before you leave, find out the address and phone number of a convenient bike shop at your destination. Give yourself enough time to stop in if you want to buy CO2 canisters for your tyres, or stock up on any other last-minute items.
8. When you collect your bike at the airport, check it on the spot for any damage and report this immediately to the airline. Find out what procedures you need to follow to claim compensation and insist on getting a reference number or the name of the person you spoke to.
9. Make sure you’ve hired a car that is big enough for your bike bag as well as all your other luggage. Alternatively, if you plan to do this often, invest in a lightweight portable bike rack that you can take along with you.
10. Remember that no matter how careful you are, stuff happens – and choosing to travel without insurance can cost you dearly. If your bike isn’t already insured, insure it now. And even if it is, call your insurer to let them know you’ll be travelling with your bike, and to confirm that your bike is covered for theft, loss or accidental damage while in transit. An hour or two of planning and careful packing is all it takes to protect your bike, peace of mind and bank balance. - Saturday Star
l MiWayMTB is an initiative by direct insurer MiWay, to encourage broad participation in MTB. As well as developing niché insurance products for this fast-growing community, MiWayMTB sponsors races, events and a dedicated SuperSport TV show, MiWayMTB.