If you go on a cycling holiday, you always have the option of bringing your own bike. You can also rent a bike at your holiday address. We write down some useful tips and considerations for you, whether to bring your own bike or opt for a rental bike. There are also some learnings. Spoiler: don't do like Sander, who is Bike lost in Greece hit. Read on so you can make an informed decision for yourself for your next cycling adventure.
Bring your own bike if you can
Nothing is nicer than cycling on your own bike. Especially if you are going somewhere for a week or more. Your own bike feels familiar. It is of course optimally adjusted to your measurements. You also know exactly how it feels and what it does in corners and descents. That's nice.
If we go by car, the bike automatically goes with us. If you are alone, the bike almost always fits in the back of a car, whatever size. If you go as a couple or with your seen, then a Seasucker Mini Bomber a welcome outcome. Fits every roof, every car, every time. So if you switch to a new car, or go with someone, you don't have to buy a completely new roof rail and accessories.
The rule of five for flying
If you are going to fly and want to take your bike with you, there is the 'rule of five'. If you go cycling at least five times, then it will be worth the cost of transporting your own bike. Our experience with Transavia is very good. Taking a bike case in the hold costs Transavia €49.00 per flight, so for a return you pay €98.00.
Choosing and packing a bike case
The bike case is something you don't want to skimp on. An expensive race or gravel bike deserves optimal protection. If you don't fly often, then renting a bike case is the best option. Then consider MH Rental or Sportrental and then go for the Scicon Aerotech. This bike case offers more protection than many other cases. For extra protection, you can put in a roll of bubble wrap and two sheets of foam rubber. We would also wrap the rear derailleur, handlebars, front and rear forks in bubble wrap.
For most bike cases, you remove the wheels and also dismantle the handlebars, pedals and seat post including the saddle. I wrap the seat post and pedals with bubble wrap and put them together in a bag intended for bicycle parts. This bag contains all parts that have been dismantled and are no longer on the bike. You always check this bag before closing the case. Then you know if you have everything. Always check your packing list.
I place the foam boards last on both sides to give the bike extra protection against falls and bumps. Because count on the case being dropped and bumped! The people who arrange the luggage don't feel the same way about your bike as you do yourself
Renting a bike
Then renting a bike. If you're flying somewhere for a long weekend and you're going to ride your bike less than five times, go for a rental bike. Bike rental reviews are always good to read. We now have very positive, but also very negative experiences of renting a bike, and in most cases you can quickly see in the reviews how customer-oriented the organisation is. A good bike rental is characterised by:
- You have to provide some bike measurements in advance. So that's more than: how tall are you and what are your pedals. Ideally, we always send you a bikefitting.
- The bike is clean, well oiled and has no extreme squeaks and creaks.
- Chain and rotating parts are not worn.
- When issues arise, solutions are sought immediately. Rather no: 'yes but you didn't use the bike properly'. Then you know you're in trouble.
It is useful to contact them beforehand and ask some specific questions. Send your stack, reach and other bike fitting measurements. See how they react. If there is no response or a vague response, without, for example, 'we have this size for you, or these options, etc' then look further.
Bring your own saddle and pedals
When renting a bike on location, two things are very important:
- Bring your own saddle
- Bring your own pedals
Even when you have a super bike, you don't know if the saddle is suitable for your ergonomics. And nothing is more annoying than having to abort your adventure early because of bottom pain. Extra tip for the ladies, as specific women's saddles are almost NEVER available at rentals. So bring your own saddle if you know you are prone to this. Also bringing your own pedals can avoid annoyances when clicking in. Or still finding out that the rental does not have your pedals. Better safe than sorry.
Conclusion
A brief summary of the tips and advice given.
- If you go by car, bring your own bike and if necessary use one or two Seasucker Mini Bombers.
- If ja goes flying, apply the rule of five. On five or more trips, take your own bike in a Scicon Aerotech bike case.
- To pack a bike case, use bubble wrap and two foam sheets to provide extra protection for fragile parts.
- When going to rent a bike, I always check the reviews and send an email. Also, always look at what bikes they offer, whether it's a bit of a new bike.
- If you go to popular destinations such as Mallorca, Calpe, Tenerife or Gran Canaria, you often have a lot of choice. Then rely on organisations you know, for example Fred Rompelberg on Mallorca, Pro Cycle Hire, Eat Sleep Cycle, Cycling Friendly or Bikepoint Tenerife.
