Life In The Saddle

The best-selling Scicon Aerocomfort Bike Bag has received some significant design updates. With thru-axle compatibility, added protection, and an overall lighter weight—the Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0  is even more of a market-leader than before. Back in 2013, I reviewed the Scicon Aerocomfort 2.0 ( read the review here ). That bag has had some significant use: for transporting bikes on planes, trains, and even yachts. With many of my bikes  now having thru-axle designs though, the Aerocomfort 2.0 had required some questionable 'bodging' on my part to make it usable. I was therefore relieved when the new 3.0 was released—this new design is much improved. Thru-Axle Compatibility One of the biggest differences with the Scicon Aerocomfort 3.0 Bike Bag is that it will accommodate 12 mm thru axles on the front and rear of the patented suspension frame system. To fit thru-axles, you simply remove the QR inserts in the suspension frame, then use your bike's existing axles t...

There is no doubt that the Swedish brand Thule are innovators: whether it be their bike carriers , travel bags ,  rucksacks , panniers , or this semi-rigid bike bag; their products push the boundaries in terms of functionality and design. The quality level is also impeccably high, and the Scandinavian influence is clear in their attitude and implementation. The Thule RoundTrip Pro XT Bike Case/Bag is a great piece of kit... I have tested a lot of bike bags and boxes , from many well known manufacturers; many of them have excelled, and done the job of transporting my rides to far-flung destinations. Many of them have had faults or niggling downsides though... anything from wheels that have fallen off, to being unable to take recent 'Gravel' bike axles and wheel sizes. The new Thule RoundTrip Pro XT Bike Case / Bag, is a semi-rigid option, which seems to tick many of the boxes, without a lot of the downfalls of its competitors. Hard case protection with soft case packabil...

Flying with your bike is a great way to get to that dream cycling destination quickly and comfortably; however, there is always a concern that your bike will be damaged by the rough hands of the baggage handlers in transit. The solution is a good quality bike bag or bike case. That leaves you with the decision of whether to opt for a hard case or a soft bag. Both have pros and cons: a hard case will provide better protection, but they are heavier, so you stand to be penalised on the weight allowances for airlines, they also tend to be smaller so require more time consuming disassembly of your bike.  Soft cases then, normally fall down on their level of protection. Enter the new evolution... the Aero Comfort 2.0 TSA from Scicon. The bag claims to provide the protection of a hard case, but with the reduced weight of a soft bag. Using an innovative rigid frame, the bike is clamped in place with just the removal of the wheels required. Minimal disassembly! The wheels are them...