Good afternoon, gravel spirit!
I’m planning a 3-month trip to Europe (I live in South America). The focus of the trip won’t be cycling, but I’d love to take my bike with me. It could be a great way to commute in the late summer-early fall, and also a nice way to stay in shape and do some tourism. I won’t be riding super long rides like I do at home because I want to take advantage of being in a new place so I’d probably spend most weekends sightseeing with my wife. I will be riding part of the Camino a Santiago de Compostela trail with my dad at the end of the trip. If I don’t take my bike, I will rent one there, as will my dad, since he can’t take his e-bike on the plane with him.
My question is this: A friend of mine can lend me a an Orucase Ninja. Is it as good as they say? Will I really avoid the extra fees?
For reference, I will be traveling with Turkish Airlines, RyanAir and also take it with me (alongside other luggage) on trains in the Deutsche Bahn system.
Any tips, recommendations, warnings?
Thanks in advance!
by SergioMath
2 Comments
Love the paint!
I’ve had an Orucase for years and love the case. Your bike will fit most cars/taxies/trains. Make sure your bike fits in it ASAP in case you have to use a different bike bag or case.
My tips for using it: It will take longer to pack, Orucase has a video online on how to pack your bike. I remove the rear derailleur and hanger. I put brake blocks in so the brakes don’t accidentally close without the wheel inserted. Don’t overpack the case. I put my pedals and shoes in my carry-on. Remove CO2 from your saddlebag. Put an Apple AirTag in your saddlebag in the case.
At the airline check-in, if asked, I say it’s my luggage. If they ask if it’s a bike, I say it’s my luggage. I haven’t been charged extra or had my bike damaged (knock on wood). It’s my only checked luggage and I have the rest of my stuff in a 45L carry-on.