Dismantling Your Bike For Travel: A Step-By-Step Guide

how to take apart a bike for travel

Taking apart a bike for travel can be intimidating, but it's fairly easy to do yourself. It's important to pack your bike correctly to avoid damage during transit. First, deflate your tires and remove any accessories that stick out from the bike's frame, such as water bottle holders, bike computers, or lights. Next, remove the pedals, chain, and saddle. Then, remove the handlebars and front wheel. If you're packing your bike into a box, you'll also need to remove the rear wheel. Wrap all parts in bubble wrap or cardboard and securely fasten loose items to avoid scratching the frame. Finally, place the bike and its components into a box or bag, making sure to mark the direction in which the bike should go.

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Removing the pedals

To remove the pedals, use a pedal wrench to unscrew the pedal at the edge of the crank arm. Remember to hold the pedal up as it gets loose, so it doesn't fall to the floor.

If you're planning to transport your bike, it's a good idea to put the chain on the outer chainring to prevent the teeth from cutting through the bottom of your bike bag or getting bent.

Make sure to keep the wrench and pedals with you if you're travelling by plane—you'll need them for reassembly.

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Taking off the saddle

First, locate the bolt at the top of the frame where the seat post enters the frame. Use the appropriate tool, such as an Allen key, to unscrew this bolt. It's important to hold the saddle as you do this so that it doesn't fall and damage any other parts of the bike. Once the bolt is removed, carefully wiggle and pull the saddle and seat post out of the frame. This may require some force, but be gentle to avoid damaging the frame or the saddle itself.

Before removing the saddle, it's a good idea to mark a line with a silver sharpie where the saddle sits. This will make it easier to put the bike back together. Additionally, you may want to wrap the saddle in bubble wrap to protect it during travel.

If you're packing your bike into a box, you'll need to be mindful of the space constraints. Carefully measure the height of the box and cut the seat post to size if needed. It's better to have a little too much room than to force the saddle in and risk damaging it or the box.

When you're ready to reassemble your bike, simply follow these steps in reverse. Insert the seat post into the frame, making sure it's aligned with the line you marked earlier. Tighten the bolt securely, but be careful not to over-tighten as this can damage the saddle or the frame.

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Packing the chain

If you are taking the chain off, put it in the outer chainring. This will prevent the teeth from cutting through the bottom of the bike bag or getting bent.

If you are leaving the chain on, make sure to turn the cranks parallel to save space in your bike travel box or bag. You should also pad the bottom of the chainring. Add foam padding (pipe lagging can be bought from your local DIY store) to the main tubes and anywhere else that might get scratched in transit.

If you are taking the chain off, remember to bring extra quick links to reassemble it when you reach your destination.

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Removing the wheels

Release the Brakes: If your bike has rim brakes or cantilever brakes, it is necessary to release the cable tension to create enough space to remove the front wheel. Locate the lever near the caliper and release some cable tension. This will allow your brake pads to move away from the rim, enabling the tire to slide past without any obstructions.

Flip Your Bike Over: Flipping your bike over is the ideal position for removing the wheels, unless you have a mechanic stand. This position provides a more stable platform to work with and reduces the risk of your bike falling over after the wheel is removed.

Open the Quick-Release or Remove the Axle: If your bike is equipped with a quick-release axle, flip the lever into the open position. If it's tight, use a tire lever to pry it open. For thru axles, open the lever and turn it counter-clockwise to unthread the axle and remove it from the hub.

Lift the Wheel Out: Carefully lift the wheel up and out of the fork. Be cautious not to dislodge the calipers if you have rim brakes, and be gentle with the rotors if you have disc brakes. Ensure that you don't force anything, as this can cause damage to the delicate components.

Bag the Wheels: Once the wheels are removed, it's important to bag them separately for safe transportation. Make sure to deflate the tires before placing them into wheel bags. This will help protect the wheels and maximize space utilization in your travel bag or box.

Remember to be gentle and deliberate in your actions when removing the wheels. Take your time and ensure that you don't force any components unnecessarily. It's always a good idea to have a basic tool kit with you, including a tire lever, Allen keys, and a wrench, to assist in the process.

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Protecting the frame

  • Use foam pipe lagging to protect the frame from chips and scratches.
  • Wrap the front forks with bubble wrap and secure it with tape.
  • If you're packing your bike into a box, remove the handlebars from the fork. If you're using a bag, turn the bars and hook them under the top tube.
  • Mark the position of the seatpost with tape before removing and wrapping it in bubble wrap.
  • Don't leave loose items floating around in the bag or box that can chip your frame.
  • Use zip ties or padlocks to keep prying eyes out of your bag.
  • Make your bike box or bag distinctive so that you don't end up with the wrong package.
  • Use a fork spacer to protect the fork.
  • Remove the rear derailleur and wrap it in bubble wrap.
  • Use a frame spacer to hold the chain taught and prevent the rear seatstays from being pushed together.

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